If you do a lot of baking, you're probably familiar with the woes of parchment paper — it's annoying to cut, the ends are always rolling up, and it's bad for the environment. The best silicone baking mats, on the other hand, don't require any cutting or preparation, and they're eco-friendly, too.
When picking out a baking mat, there are several things to consider. First, you want to make sure it's tough and durable. It should be at least 0.75 millimeter thick and made from either 100-percent silicone or a fiberglass hybrid (which helps make the mat stronger and more heat-resistant).
Next, make sure it has ample heat-resistance. In most cases, you'll want your baking mat to withstand temperatures up to 480 degrees Fahrenheit, so opt against cheaper Dollar Store-type buys. Lastly, make sure the underside is grippy so it doesn't slide all over the counter.
Also, think about the types of treats you'll be making most often, since there's lots of design variation from mat to mat. Some feature circular stencils, for example, to help you make perfectly even cookies or macarons, while others have lines and rulers to help you roll out dough for pies and other pastries.
Since it can be hard to find a mat that ticks off all of these boxes, I've done some research and compiled a list of the best silicone baking mats for each purpose. Take a look so you can start planning your next culinary creation.