What is a jelly roll pan? Only one of the most versatile tools in a cook's arsenal. A jelly roll pain is similar to a cookie sheet, but it has a raised edge, usually about an inch high. It is so important because it can be used for many different purposes, from roasting vegetables, to baking cookies, to broiling meats. They are inexpensive and easy to clean, making them the ideal baking pan for many jobs.
When shopping for a jelly roll pan, you want to keep a few things in mind. First, you want a pan that is relatively heavy for its size. This means it can hold and distribute heat to the bottom of what you are baking or roasting more evenly and is more durable, meaning a greater return on your investment. You also want to avoid varieties with various non-stick coatings. If you need to make sure what you are baking doesn't stick, you can always use parchment paper or grease the pan, but non-stick coatings can leech into food over time and are unnecessary on jelly roll pans. If you do opt for a non-stick model, make sure not to use a metal spatula when removing baked goods or steel wool when cleaning, as they will damage the coating.
Though there are countless uses for a good jelly roll pan, they are most often used to execute dessert recipes, including the two described below:
Homemade Granola Bars
Ingredients You Will Need:
3 ½ cups oats
½ cup raisins
¼ cup dried cranberries
¼ cup dried cherries
½ cup slivered almonds, toasted
¼ cup roasted pecans, roughly chopped
¼ cup roasted walnuts, roughly chopped
½ cup honey
�" cup brown sugar
1 egg, beaten
�" cup butter, melted
Thoroughly combine all of the ingredients in a large bowl. Spread the mixture onto a greased jelly roll pan, and firmly press down. Bake in a 350 degree Fahrenheit oven for about 20 minutes. Allow to cool, and then cut into individual bars. Since there are no preservatives, any bars you don't eat immediately should be refrigerated.
Coffee Granita
Ingredients You Will Need:
3 cups hot coffee (flavored if you prefer)
¾ cup sugar
¼ cup cream
⅛ teaspoon nutmeg
Combine all the ingredients in a bowl until the sugar is dissolved. Let the mixture come to room temperature on the counter and then pour into a jelly roll pan, being careful not to spill. Place in the freezer. Every 20 minutes, scrape the mixture with a fork, making sure to get any ice crystals stuck to the bottom or sides. Once the mixture is thoroughly frozen, spoon into glasses and serve.
 | If you are new to baking recipes, it is important not only to read up on measurements and baking cookware but it is also equally important to practice your craft. Baking is like any sport or hobby: The more you do it, the better you will become. |
 | Learning how to bake can be a daunting process, but it does not have to reduce a grown adult to tears. The key is to know the basics of baking before you dive in. |
 | With so many types of flour to choose from, such as spelt flour, soy flour, quinoa flour, rice flour, organic bread flour and even gluten-free flour, your head may begin to spin. If you want your recipe to be a success, you'll need to understand what each type does and whether it's right for your recipe's need. |
 | Whether you're a novice baker or a well-seasoned pro, you'll want to stock your kitchen with essential baking supplies. Start with the basics: measuring tool, mixing equipment and a varied assortment of quality bakeware for the goods you bake the most. |
The word "soufflé" strikes fear in the hearts of both professional chefs and home cooks. Fortunately for anyone who desires to attempt a soufflé, they are not nearly as difficult as many people would have you believe. |
