Sheet Pan Sizes: Standard Or Not?

Sheet pans, also known as baking trays, baking sheets, or baking pans, are flat, rectangular metal pans used for baking pastries, roasting vegetables, and broiling meats. There are five standard sizes: full-size (18 x 26), 2/3 size (16 x 22), half-size (13 x 18), 1/4 size (9 1/2 x 13), and 1/8 size (6 1/2 x 9 1/2). The size of a sheet pan is important as it determines its compatibility with different kitchen appliances and the quantity of food it can hold.

Full-size sheet pans

The size of a full-size sheet pan makes it ideal for baking multiple items at once, whether you're making large batches of cookies or roasting vegetables. The large surface area allows for even cooking and browning.

When purchasing a full-size sheet pan, it is important to note that not all manufacturers' pans are exactly the same size. Check the product description to find the exact dimensions of the pan before purchasing.

Half-size sheet pans

When choosing a half-size sheet pan, look for one made from a heavier-gauge material, such as uncoated aluminium or aluminized steel. These pans conduct heat evenly, release food with ease, and are resistant to warping. It is also a good idea to opt for a pan with rolled rims, which are more comfortable to grip, especially when wearing oven mitts.

Quarter-size sheet pans

These small pans are ideal for small-batch cooking and are perfect for toaster ovens. They are also useful for organising, drying out ingredients in the refrigerator, and freezing batches of cookies. Quarter-size sheet pans are easy to store and fit more comfortably in chilling units than larger sheet pans. They are also similar in size to metal pizza plates and slide easily into most dual-purpose racks.

For home cooks, quarter sheet pans are a great option for small batch cookie baking, portioning cookie dough for freezing, gathering ingredients, toasting small amounts of nuts, or for small cooking jobs like roasting vegetables.

Quarter sheet pans are available in a variety of materials, including aluminium and aluminized steel, and can be purchased from restaurant supply shops or online retailers such as Amazon.

Eighth-size sheet pans

Some manufacturers of eighth-size sheet pans include Nordic Ware, Chicago Metallic, and Baker's Mark. Prices can vary, but they are generally affordable and offer good value for money.

Jelly roll pans

The standard size for a jelly roll pan is 15 x 10 inches, with a depth of 1 inch. This size is suitable for making jelly rolls, as well as other baked goods such as cookies and pastries. Some jelly roll pans may be slightly smaller, measuring around 14.25 x 9.375 x 1 inches. This smaller size is similar to a quarter sheet pan and is still suitable for baking a variety of treats.

When purchasing a jelly roll pan, it is important to consider the material and construction. Aluminized steel is a popular choice due to its durability, even heating, and warp resistance. Non-stick coatings, such as silicone-based coatings, can also be helpful for ensuring that your baked goods release easily from the pan. Additionally, some pans feature reinforced rims or corrugated designs to further enhance their strength and resistance to warping.

Frequently asked questions