After working in a few professional kitchens and bakeries, I noticed that one of the recurring problems with maintaining the longevity of silicone mats is the result of improper care. Quality of design and features: we looked for sturdy silicone baking mats with nifty features like cut edges, to make the mat easy to remove from the pan, plus weights and measurements printed onto the sheet. The key to the versatility and efficiency of a silicone mat is that it contains a fiberglass grid that does not retain heat the way metal pans do. The whole mat can then go into the freezer to allow the ghosts to set before adding them to drinks.

These are made of nontoxic and BPA-free silicone and fiberglass mesh, approved by the FDA and LFGB. As with the other models, the combination of the two materials creates better air circulation and even heat distribution. Oven Safe Temperature: 480 degrees | Sizes Available: 1.5 x 9 inches (Sil-band), 10.9 x 7.9 inches (toaster oven), 11.75 x 8.25 inches (quarter sheet), 13.5 x 8.5 inches (jelly roll), 16.5 x 11.5 inches, (half sheet), 17 x 12.25 (cookie sheet), 19.5 x 13.5 (three-quarter sheet)

Versatility: while there’s not much versatility to be had when it comes to a silicone baking mat, those that were able to go in the freezer, microwave and dishwasher scored a few extra points. One of my favorite silicone mat uses is making bread without a baking pan. Crusty home made bread is made for a silicone mat. I just form mine into any kind of loaf that I want it to be (I love the look of free formed crusty bread!) Doing this allows you to use fresh fruit in season to save on money. Try my strawberry frozen yogurt popsicle recipe. The kids will love them this summer. It is not just edible projects that can be made on Silpat mats. You can get crafty with DIY projects, as well. Place cookie cutters and fill them with peppermints to make ornaments. Protect your Work Surface Now that we’ve reviewed our most recommended model, let’s go over some silicone basics, and why it’s the right choice for busy bakers. Then we’ll review some of the other popular models you can buy.

Polymer clay is often used to make jewelry. A silicone baking mat makes a great work surface to form the pieces of clay. Oven Safe Temperature: 446 degrees | Sizes Available: 11.4 x 10.2 inches, 23.5 x 17.5 inches, 23.6 x 20 inches, 23.6 x 23.6 inches, 27.5 x 20 inches, 31.5 x 23.6 inches

The professional-quality baking mat

This silicone baking mat is not only covered by a lifetime warranty but it's also thoughtfully designed at a standard size that should easily fit the majority of baking sheets you’ve already got at home," say Monica and Jessica Valenzuela, co-owners and bakers at Little Boxes NYC Bakeshop. Silpat’s can be used in frozen environments and up to 500°F in the oven. Silpat mat vs parchment paper Silicone Baking Mat (Silpat)