The Best Baking and Cookie Sheet Pans on the Market Today

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Are you looking for the very best cookie trays? Maybe your baking sheets are scratched or an odd size, or maybe it’s just time for some new ones?

If so, you’ve come to the right place. At Foodal, we’re rather picky when it comes to bakeware.

Vertical image of a metal sheet pan lined with an orange and off-white Silpat pan liner, with freshly baked chocolate chip cookies arranged in rows on top, on a metal cooling rack on a gray surface, printed with orange and white text in the top third and at the bottom of the frame.

Cookies are one of the most popular baked foods in the United States, and I know I like to bake a lot of them. But sometimes your pans can get stained, scratched, warped, or worn out, or you realize that you simply don’t have enough of them.

In my kitchen, I love a fresh-out-of-the-oven chewy chocolate chip variety dipped in milk (lactose-free for me). But what I really hate – and I’m sure you would agree – is when I overbake my treats!

The ones that fall apart when you try to transfer them to the cooling rack come in at a close second-to-worst. Though these are often the most delicious, sometimes I just lack the patience that’s required for them to survive the baking process.

If your treats are burning even when you follow the recipe or they’re not cooking evenly, it’s easy to blame your oven for this. But the number one thing you should really be questioning is your choice of bakeware.

We searched all over for the best quality baking sheets for the job, and I think you’re going to be quite impressed with what we found.

Below I’ll share our number one pick first. We’ll also discuss what to look for in terms of:

Following that, we’ll explore the other options that we found to be great products.

To give you a quick rundown, these are the:

Before you bake another botched batch, let’s take a look at what’s available and dig into the options. Shall we?

Bottom Line Up Front – Our Top Rated Model

We believe the Nordic Ware Natural Aluminum Commercial Baker’s Half Sheet is the very best for baking cookies, for most people.

It’s made from natural aluminum, which tells us it’s durable and not coated with any toxins, but it will still hold up well in hot environments.

Nordic Ware Natural Aluminum Commercial Baker’s Half Sheet

Although it’s a baker’s half, it fits nicely in a standard oven. Based on our in-house testing, it can hold about 20 round treats at once, if you use about a tablespoon of dough per cookie, made from a batter that doesn’t spread significantly during baking.

This sheet might be the only one you’ll ever need, but it’s so nice you might want to buy two. You have that option. But if you’re looking for pans that come conveniently packaged as a set, keep reading for some of our favorites.

Our top pick from Nordic Ware is commercial quality and guaranteed never to rust. It’s also made in the USA and is priced rather low, so even the most budget conscious shoppers can surely justify this purchase.

It does well at your average 350°F, but has been shown to hold up nicely at higher temperatures upwards of 500°F as well, which is perfect for roasting sweet, caramelized vegetables or making pizza.

This product is available on Amazon.

Highlights:

  • The perfect size. Fits in standard ovens, holds a large amount of baked goods, and allows room for heat circulation.
  • Light color. Allows for even cooking and no unwanted burning/browning.
  • Made of aluminum. Made to last, free of toxins, and won’t warp due to high temperatures.
  • Versatile. Thanks to the rim, you can use this pan to roast vegetables and other foods. It will even survive trips through the broiler without any damage.

If you’re looking for a high quality sheet that’s built to last, this Nordic Ware pan is a good option for most bakers.

It will lightly brown the bottoms of what you’re baking without burning, and cookies will easily come off the sheet – IF you’re sure to use baking spray or a sheet of parchment paper.

That’s right – you should always remember to prep your pan first when using one of this type for baking. It’s recommended that you season natural aluminum before using it.

You can do this by placing a teaspoon of cooking oil (such as coconut, since it has a high smoke point) on the baking sheet, spreading it around with a clean towel, and baking it for 30 minutes at 400°F. Let it cool completely, and after that, it should be ready to go.

You can read more about seasoning cookware here.

Nordic Ware  Commercial Baker’s Half Sheet with Cooling Rack and Nonstick Silicone Baking Mat in Aqua

Or better yet, the pan is also offered as part of a set that includes a silicone baking mat and cooling rack. No more seasoning before use required!

You do have to hand wash this product, but I haven’t found any high quality pans that you can put in the dishwasher reliably without compromising the quality. However, a simple wash by hand with soap and water cleans this sheet up very nicely.

If you’re looking for a good pan for baking delicious goodies for years to come, I’m confident you’ll be very happy with this product.

Check prices and read all of the customer reviews on Amazon now.

Things to Look For

There are some key factors and features you want to be aware of before you make your purchase.

These include things like…

Size

Most standard ovens have a baking rack that’s around 22 inches wide, so I recommend a sheet that’s the standard 13-by-18-inch size (a baker’s half) as it’s not too big, giving the heat room to circulate. And it’s not too small either, allowing you to bake a large quantity of treats at once.

Another perk of going with a standard size is that precut parchment paper is a perfect fit, with no trimming required.

If you have a commercial extra-large oven, you could get away with using a full-size sheet pan, which measures 26 by 18 inches. But that’s going to be too big for most ovens. Smaller sized sheets also work, it will just take longer to get through your dough if you are baking in batches.

Sometimes I’ll make a batch and only bake half, saving the rest of the dough in the freezer until another sweets craving strikes. This is a great technique to use during the holidays – freezing your dough in portions, and then taking a little out to bake a small batch when you have company.

Material

When it comes to these products, we found six different styles that are very popular today: nonstick, aluminum, stainless steel, carbon steel, ceramic, and insulated.

Nonstick

Nonstick usually means it’s a thinner sheet of steel that has been coated with a thin layer of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE)/Teflon – which often means it’s more prone to heat warping, scuffs, and uneven cooking.

If you’re hesitant about potential exposure to toxins and chemicals, you’ll want to avoid the nonstick options, as they’re usually coated with chemicals that may off-gas when heated to high temperatures.

The good thing about using this style is you don’t have to worry about oiling your pan or using parchment paper, and food comes off very easily without it.

However, you will eventually have to replace your nonstick pans, since the coating does wear off over time (but where does it go? Does the same monster that eats your socks ingest the PTFE coating as well? Or perhaps it is lining your gut…).

Aluminum

Aluminum is the material that’s preferred by many cooks, since it’s thick, durable, and affordable. Pans made from this material seem to hold up well in the long run, and it’s possible to avoid scuffs and discoloration, as long as you keep them out of the dishwasher. It’s also known for heating up evenly and uniformly.

If you go with this option, it’s important that you use some kind of barrier between the food and the pan, such as cooking oil or parchment paper, as food will get stuck to the bottom if you’re not careful.

Silpat Premium Nonstick Silicone Baking Mat, available from Amazon

I prefer to use silicone and fiberglass baking mats such as the French-made Silpat shown above. Baking mats like these can be used thousands of times before you’ll need to replace them, and they make cleanup a breeze.

Aluminum is also a better conductor of heat than iron, steel, or most other materials. In fact, other than copper, it is the best heat conductor that’s commonly available in cookware.

Why is this important to you?

Since aluminum can transfer heat so quickly, it can also lose that heat just as fast, meaning once you remove a tray from the oven, you don’t have to worry about the material taking a long time to cool down, continuously radiating heat the whole time.

This process happens relatively quickly, and the rapid heat loss helps to prevent scorching.

Read our full review of Silpats and other top-quality silicone baking mats here.

Stainless Steel

Admittedly, this is not our favorite material for sheet pans. But we have received a lot of questions about it from readers, and we wanted to make sure we included it in our review.

It tends to warp easily, and is not the best conductor of heat available. Mirror finishes can scratch and fade with use, and this is not the most nonstick material out there either.

However, uncoated stainless means you won’t have to worry about the potential for any leaching chemicals, and pans made with stainless steel are durable and heavy-duty, despite their tendency to warp at high temperatures.

You might notice different numbers in the descriptions for these products, including 18/0, 18/8, and 18/10. These numbers refer to the percentages of chromium and nickel in the stainless steel, with the 18 referring to the content of chromium, and the second number referring to the nickel content.

Chromium is known for its ability to resist rust, and nickel provides a shiny silver appearance.

Carbon Steel

Carbon steel is another popular option.

Like cast iron, steel is not a great heat conductor. It takes a long time to get up to the correct temperature, and a long time for the energy to dissipate after it has been removed from the heat source.

Thinner, cheaper versions of carbon steel pans can exhibit hot spots, and they don’t spread thermal energy very well from the source point. If you have your tray sitting directly above an electric coil, for example, it will become much hotter in the location nearest to the coil than it is anywhere else.

These thinner versions work much better in convection ovens where the majority of the thermal energy is carried by the air, rather than radiating from electrified points.

However, there is a catch – carbon steel does excel at some baking applications. Here’s the deal:

The thicker versions are excellent for baking artisan breads and pizzas.

Why is this?

Well, it’s for the same reason that they make a poor choice in the thinner material – their reluctance to gain or shed thermal energy makes them ideal for retaining that heat, once they are finally up to temperature.

NerdChef Ultimate Steel Stone High-Performance Baking Surface for Pizzas – 14.25 x 16 x 1/2 Inches, available on Amazon

For pizzas and breads, you want a baking surface that can store and radiate thermal energy no matter what is placed on top of it.

If you have the oven set to 500°F and the cooking surface is up to temperature, you don’t want that surface changing temperature (much) once a food item with a lot of mass is placed on top of it.

Cast iron is the ideal choice for this, due to its ability to store heat energy, and this is why thicker examples are sometimes used in place of baking or pizza stones.

Some of the higher end versions like the NerdChef model recommended above are available in 1/4-, 3/8-, and even 1/2-inch thicknesses.

Ceramic

Probably one of the more rare options out there, you do find ceramic sheet pans occasionally, and there are some high quality options on the market.

Rather than being ceramic all the way through, these pans are typically comprised of a steel tray with a smooth or textured surface that is coated in nonstick ceramic.

These pans are safe to use at high temperatures, and they’re free of the chemicals that you’ll find in other types of nonstick coatings.

Insulated

These usually have a bit of a lip and are designed to achieve even cooking on the top, bottom, sides, and center. For whatever reason, we’ve found that this type of pan can be more difficult to find these days.

Due to the insulation, this type does take longer to heat up and bake all the way through. But this is a wonderful option for light colored treats, like shortbread and Linzer cookies.

These sheets take a little longer to cool down as well, so use caution when they’re first removed from the oven. They should be hand washed and air dried completely to avoid any water damage.

Rimmed vs. Rimless

Which of these options is better? This is a difficult question to answer, as there are pros and cons to both. That being said, what are commonly referred to as “baking sheets” are usually the ones with the rimmed edges, and cookie sheets are those without edges.

A rim can actually block the circulation of hot air in your oven, preventing cookies from baking evenly. Without the edge, you usually have more available baking space as well.

Closeup closely cropped horizontal image of a rimmed metal sheet pan lined with parchment paper and filled with slice droasted carrots, beets, and other vegetables with sprigs of rosemary, on a gray speckled countertop.

I have found both styles to be very useful. But if you only have room in your cabinets for one pan in this category, get a rimmed product.

Why?

They are multi-use pans, which I’m a big fan of. Not only can they work well for producing delicious baked goods, they can also serve double duty as a roasting pan in some instances. These can be used to bake veggies or other foods that give off liquids without having to worry about the mess dripping all over the bottom of your oven.

Rimmed

With this option, the size of the rim can vary dramatically, from thin to thick and short to tall. When using this style, I have found that as long as I have enough work space in the pan, I don’t mind the rim.

Closely cropped horizontal image of oatmeal raisin cookie dough portioned on a silicone pan liner set into a sheet pan.
A rimmed baking pan with a silicone and fiberglass mat to prevent sticking.

I will say that these tend to be thicker, they are often made from aluminum, and they don’t bend or warp at high temperatures. They also make great roasting pans for cooking vegetables.

You can easily chop your broccoli or carrots and potatoes, put them in the pan, toss them with oil and fresh herbs, and bake. You won’t have to worry about any of the veggies spilling out, and this type of pan is easy to put into and take out of the oven.

The problem with the rimmed option is that the rim makes it a little more challenging to remove delicate goodies from the pan, and this can sometimes result in broken pieces.

But it’s not the end of the world, especially if you’re willing to wait – treats usually harden up after a few minutes out of the oven.

Non-Rimmed

It’s easy to remove delicate foods from these, as you can just slide your baked goods off the sheet and onto a cooling rack or serving platter. The problem with this style is that they’re usually thinner, and can start to show signs of wear a lot faster.

If you’re like me and you’re sometimes a bit too quick to take your precious cookies out of the oven, this can also mean your baked goods will start to slide right off the pan and onto the door of the oven or the floor. Nobody wants that!

Closeup of cutout Christmas cookies decorated with white sugar icing on a rimless metal baking sheet, on a black background.
A rimless cookie sheet makes sliding delicate baked goods off the tray a little easier, thanks to the flat edge – but it won’t serve double duty as a roaster.

They’re also less versatile, so no veggie roasting or cooking meat with these, unless you’re okay with vegetables potentially falling to the bottom of your oven, or juices dripping off the pan and burning, creating a nasty mess to clean up later.

I don’t think this factor is too important if you’re trying to weigh the pros and cons of which might be better. Both styles can work really well, and neither is necessarily a deal breaker for making a good recipe. Just keep your baking goals in mind when you make your decision.

Dark vs. Light Surface Color

You may have noticed that baking sheets also come in different colors or shades. Some are light, and some are dark. And this isn’t just for ornamental effect. The main difference that will have an effect on your baking is in how the pans absorb heat.

Dark

The darker colored sheets are going to heat up faster and absorb more heat, which is great if you want a really crispy crust or brown bottom. On the flip side, this is usually not the best for making sweet treats, unless you’re preparing a rustic galette or a pizza.

If you do fall in love with a dark pan and don’t want the bottom of your baked goods to brown, simply layer the pans with one or two sheets of parchment paper or silicone mats – this provides a little extra insulation from the heat, and helps to keep the bottoms from burning.

Light

These have the opposite effect, cooking more slowly and evenly – which is great for when you don’t want the bottoms of whatever you’re making to be super brown.

If you specialize in sweet treats, I would opt for a lighter colored pan like the Nordic Ware option described above. Although it’s lighter, it’s still capable of browning the bottoms if you wish, without as much risk of burning.

If you purchase a high-quality pan that’s made to last, like our top pick from Nordic Ware, then you’ll have a lot more versatility when you bake as well.

Baking and Cookie Sheet Pan Reviews: Your Other Options

Still shopping? If you’d like to see some more options for this kitchen staple, we’ve gathered a list of picks that stood out to us, to help you in your comparison shopping.

Anolon Nonstick Steel 3-Piece Set

If you’re in need of multiple pans, this might be the product for you, since it comes as a set of small, medium, and large for a total of three. All are made of steel and they are nonstick with a bronze-toned coating to provide even baking and browning, and a nice rim. Or, if you prefer, they’re available in a graphite color as well.

Anolon 3-piece set of rimmed pans in graduated sizes in bronze, isolated on a white background.

Anolon 3-Piece Set in Bronze

The price for all three pans is one of the lowest I have seen, which has me wondering… How do they do it?

Overall reviews are positive, and happy customers are pleased with their durability as well as the ease of stick-free cooking.

Top-down view of a rimmed Anolon baking pan in graphite, isolated on a white background.

Anolon Large Pan in Graphite (Part of a 3-Piece Set)

Though these pans are technically dishwasher safe, hand washing is recommended. If you treat your cooking equipment with care, and you appreciate the versatility of different size options, this might be a wonderful set for you.

Highlights:

  • Great value, with 3 sheets for less than the price of 1 from other brands.
  • Nonstick material makes cleanup easy.
  • Heavyweight material holds up to 450°F and it’s warp-resistant.
  • Set includes 3 sizes: large (17 x 11 inches), medium (15 x 10 inches) and small (13 x 9 inches).

They stack very well, so if space is an issue in your kitchen, you don’t have to worry with these. If you’re trying to find an overall good deal, look no further than this set.

Read the reviews and check prices on Wayfair now.

Farberware Nonstick Steel 3-Piece Set

If a silvery hue is more in line with your kitchen aesthetic, try this set from Farberware. Three matching nonstick steel pans with 1.5-inch rims are included in this set – a large 17” L x 11” W pan for baking cookies, and smaller 15” L x 10” W and 13” L x 9” W pans for roasting veggies or reheating leftovers.

Farberware Nonstick 3-Piece Set

These pans have a shallow moat around the flat surface inside, to catch the liquid runoff from juicy foods. And they’re from Farberware, a trusted brand in this category for over a century. Dishwasher safe, though hand washing is recommended.

Highlights:

  • Steel with nonstick coating is oven safe up to 450°F.
  • A variety of sizes offers versatility, with good value for the price.
  • Easily stackable for storage.
  • Rimmed edges keep baked goods in place with no risk of drips.

If you’re looking for a heavy-duty product from a brand you can trust, give this set a try.

Farberware Nonstick Cookie Pan in Rose Gold, 10 by 15 Inches

And if you’re in need of just a single pan, say, one that measures 10 by 15 inches from the same Farberware line in a pretty rose gold color, one of those is available as well.

Check prices now on Amazon.

Rachael Ray Nonstick Carbon Steel 3-Piece Set

This 3-piece set comes with small, medium, and large baking pans as well, all of which are made from durable carbon steel that resists warping. The pans have a long-lasting nonstick finish to provide excellent food release, making for easy cleanup.

Rachael Ray Nonstick Bakeware 3-Piece Baking and Cookie Pan Set with Marine Blue Grips

I’ve used Rachael Ray products in the past and I have never been disappointed. I usually feel pretty confident buying products promoted by people who cook a lot.

These pans are dark in color, and they hold heat well. They’re rimmed with extra wide handles, making them very easy to pull out of a hot oven.

Plus, they provide a pop of color, which I always appreciate. You can choose from a selection of color options for the handle grips. These would make a nice gift for the baker in your life.

Highlights:

  • Set includes a variety of sizes: 9 x 13, 10 x 15, and 11 x 17 inches.
  • Rimmed edges keep baked goods from slipping off.
  • Extra-wide handles help to easily grab pans from the oven.
  • Nonstick material helps to quickly clean and remove food.
  • Also available in a 5-piece set, should you need a bigger selection.

If you’re thinking about these pans but you’re not totally convinced, another nice thing about them is that a portion of the proceeds go to Yum-O!. Rachael’s nonprofit helps kids and parents to develop healthy relationships with food, which is something future generations really need.

Read customer reviews and check prices on Amazon now.

TeamFar Stainless Steel 2-Piece Set

As I’ve mentioned previously, rust-free stainless steel is an option for those who aren’t fans of baking on aluminum.

These pans from TeamFar are comprised of durable 18/0 magnetic stainless. Easy to hand wash, they can also be placed in the dishwasher. Sets of two pans are available in a large size, measuring 15.8 x 12 inches. They have a deep, nearly 1-inch rim all the way around the edge and a nonstick mirror finish.

TeamFar Stainless Steel Cookie Sheets, Set of 2

Users do report the occurrence some sticking, so greasing these pans before use with nonstick oil spray or your choice of cooking lubricant is recommended. Otherwise, be sure to line them with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.

Placing these pans under the broiler or cooking certain foods can lead to staining, but any unsightly marks can usually be scrubbed off with steel wool. Unfortunately, this may also lead to scratching.

Highlights:

  • Uncoated stainless steel, with no unwanted chemicals.
  • Sturdy and heavy duty, so they’re sure to last.
  • Dishwasher safe
  • A deep rim keeps foods and liquids where you want them.

Keep in mind that although these are heavy-duty pans touted as “resistant” to warping, they will warp, and this can lead to uneven baking. Some users recommend placing your pans in the oven while it preheats so they can heat up gradually, reducing the tendency to bend. These pans are also heavier than aluminum options.

Check prices and read customer reviews now on Amazon.

Wilton Recipe Right Nonstick Aluminum

Another classic aluminum pan, this affordable option from Wilton is perfect for the budget-conscious among us.

Wilton Recipe Right Cookie Pan, 17 1/4 by 11 1/2-Inch

It’s dishwasher safe with an easy-release nonstick coating, and measures 17.25 by 11.25 inches with a rim around the edge, and slightly more extended handles on either of the shorter sides.

These handles even have holes conveniently placed in either end, if you prefer to hang your pans for storage.

A limited 5-year warranty means you can rest assured that you probably won’t need to buy another pan for awhile, but keep in mind that this product is prone to warping at high temperatures.

Highlights:

  • Lightweight nonstick aluminum.
  • Dishwasher safe.
  • Can be stacked or hung up for storage.
  • Limited 5-year warranty.

If you’re a fan of this simple, no frills option, read customer reviews and check current prices on Amazon now.

Farberware Nonstick Carbon Steel

This pan is made from carbon steel and seems to hold up just as well as aluminum. It is also nonstick, making cleanup easier, but it’s suggested that you don’t use it at temperatures above 450°F.

Farberware Nonstick Bakeware 11-by-17-Inch Cookie Pan

That being said, this would not be a good pan for roasting, but it’s great for baking sweet treats. It has a small rim and a bit of an edge, making it easy to remove from the oven as well.

Highlights:

  • Nonstick inside and out, for easy cleanup.
  • Durable, heavy-duty construction resists warping and heats evenly.
  • At 11 x 17 inches, it’s a little smaller than the Nordic, but big enough to fit at least a baker’s dozen.
  • Perfect for baking sweet treats at lower temperatures.

This is an excellent product for the price. If you don’t mind washing it by hand and keeping it away from sharp utensils, this pan could last you a very long time.

However, it doesn’t rank as high as the Nordic Ware, as some users found that it warped after a number of uses in a hot oven.

Check prices and read customer reviews on Amazon now.

Anolon Advanced Nonstick Carbon Steel

If you’re more of a minimalist, a world traveler who keeps the majority of your kitchen gear in storage while you’re on the road, or an empty-nester looking to pare down your collection of belongings, the Anolon Advanced pan is a great option.

Anolon Advanced Nonstick Carbon Steel Pan

Heavy-duty carbon steel is resistant to warping and safe for use at oven temperatures up to 450°F. And the medium-tone color, somewhere between dark and light, helps to promote even browning.

Measuring in at 10 by 15 inches with round edges and a tall interior rim (referred to in Anolon’s marketing copy as a “shallow outside wall”), happy customers love the SureGrip™silicone handles that mean you can eschew your oven mitts with confidence – if you’re careful, at least.

With a lifetime limited warranty to boot, what’s not to love about this versatile pan?

Highlights:

  • Warp-resistant heavy-duty carbon steel.
  • Medium color (between light and dark) provides even browning.
  • Sturdy SureGrip handles provide comfort and ease of use.
  • Limited lifetime warranty.

Read customer reviews and check current prices on Amazon.

All-Clad Stainless Steel

If a higher end stainless option is what you’re after, go for the All-Clad 9003TS. This 18/10 stainless steel baking sheet is available in a 14-by-17-inch size.

All-Clad 9003TS 18/10 Stainless Steel Baking Sheet Ovenware, 14-Inch by 17-Inch, Silver

Open on three sides, this type has an angled lip on one side for putting it in and taking it out of the oven. Users note that this sheet is not completely flat, and it has a slight raised lip around the entire inner perimeter.

Comprised of sturdy 18/10 stainless steel with premium tri-ply construction, it comes with a limited lifetime warranty and is made in the USA. This product is also dishwasher safe.

Touted as being induction compatible and resistant to warping, this pan is safe for use in high oven temperatures up to 600°F. That’s the highest rating we’ve seen! Some users have reported that the edges are more sharp than expected, and warping has been reported as well.

Highlights:

  • A rimless option that’s perfect for baking cookies.
  • Sturdy stainless is durable, and long-lasting.
  • Product includes a limited lifetime warranty.
  • Made in the USA.

If you’re a holiday baking fanatic and a fan of the All-Clad brand, look no further than this sturdy, rimless option.

Check prices and read reviews now on Amazon.

Norpro Stainless Steel

If you are looking for a less expensive option of the cookie sheet style, try this product from Norpro. This 18/0 stainless cookie sheet is available in 12-by-16-inch or 14-by-12-inch sizes. It has a short, open rim on three sides and a flat side on the other, so you can easily slide those cookies right off onto your cooling racks.

Norpro 12 x 16 Inch Stainless Steel Cookie Sheet

Keep in mind that these pans are not insulated or coated with anything nonstick. Hand washing is recommended, and some users have reported that the pans scratch easily if scrubbed with abrasive materials.

There is a common problem with these pans, and that has to do with the way they are packaged. Many customers report that the glue from the label is hard to remove, but it’s nothing that a little WD-40 shouldn’t fix – one happy customer suggests peanut butter for easy removal.

Others report that this product stains easily, or they complain that whatever they are cooking slides right off when they don’t want it to. But this is really a testament to its inherent nonstick properties without the use of any additional coatings like Teflon. Unlike other products in the stainless category, happy customers did not report a tendency to warp with these pans.

Highlights:

  • Warp-resistant, sturdy stainless steel.
  • Rimless style is perfect for baking cookies.
  • Naturally nonstick.
  • Good value for the price.

A little easier on the wallet than other options, these stainless pans are reported to be truly warp resistant, which is a real treat.

Read more about this product and place your orders now on Amazon.

Wezvix Stainless Steel

Need something a little larger, or perhaps a little smaller? Rimmed stainless options from Wezvix are available in a variety of sizes, from small and narrow 7-by-9-inch toaster oven pans to large 19.6-by-13.5-by-1.2-inch half sheet trays, or even a whopping 24-by-16-by-1.3-inch pan.

Wezvix Stainless Steel Baking Tray, 24 x 16 Inches

Made of 18/0 stainless steel with a shiny mirror finish, these pans have a generous 1.3-inch raised rim around all four sides in the largest size, and shorter rims in smaller formats. The rolled edge around the sides makes them easy to hold, and these are dishwasher safe.

They also have a tendency to warp. The manufacturer notes, “If the baking sheet warps or bends during working, do not worry, because it will return to its normal shape when cooling.”

Unfortunately, when cooking liquids pool in unintended places or cookies slide around and bake unevenly, “worry” is often taken to new heights more akin to anger and frustration.

Highlights:

  • Available in a wide variety of sizes.
  • Stainless steel with a mirror finish.
  • Dishwasher safe.
  • Easy to put in and take out of the oven.

They may warp, discolor, or scratch easily if sharp or abrasive tools are used on them, but this is simply the nature of stainless, not a manufacturing defect. Many users are very happy with these pans.

Check current prices and read customer reviews on Amazon now.

Farberware Hybrid Ceramic Nonstick

If you’re intrigued by the idea of a ceramic-coated pan or you’re looking for a colorful option that will look great on Instagram, say no more – you’ve found your winner.

Farberware Hybrid Ceramic Nonstick Baking Sheet in Aqua

Available in striking aqua, purple, or a copper brown, these pans from Farberware measure 11 x 17 inches, and they’re safe for use at temperatures up to 500°F. Comprised of steel coated with PFOA and PTFE-free nonstick ceramic, cleanup is easy – and they’re even dishwasher safe.

Farberware Hybrid Ceramic Nonstick Baking Sheet in Purple

A textured surface not only improves durability and makes these pans resistant to warping, it also allows for better airflow and even cooking of your baked goods. A rim with a gutter around the edge of the “quilted” cook surface catches liquids, and wide handles provide for easy insertion in and removal from the oven.

Highlights:

  • Available in vibrant aqua or lavender.
  • Ceramic-coated steel is nonstick and durable.
  • Textured surface promotes airflow and even cooking.
  • Rimmed edge provides versatility and ease of use.

Read more about this product and check current prices on Amazon.

GreenLife Ceramic Nonstick

“Green” is in the name, and you know you can count on chemical-free cooking with this product that’s free of PFAS, PFOA, lead, or cadmium. Comprised of heavy-duty steel with a ceramic nonstick coating, these pans are easy to clean and oven safe up to 450°F.

GreenLife Ceramic Nonstick Cookie Sheet in Turquoise

These pans are turquoise outside and white inside, and they measure 18.3 x 12.8 inches with a 1-inch rim around the edge. A selection of matching bakeware in a variety of options from muffin tins to cake pans is also available, if you want to round out your set.

GreenLife is careful to point out that extra care should be used when baking in ceramic-coated steel. The manufacturer recommends letting these pans cool completely before rinsing, and hand washing with a soft sponge. Use of butter or oil to lubricate your pans is okay, but application of spray oils is not recommended as this can lead to unwanted buildup. And only nylon or wooden utensils should be used, to prevent scratching.

Highlights:

  • Ceramic-coated steel is nonstick, and free of unwanted chemicals.
  • Available in an attractive turquoise and white color palette.
  • Smooth cook surface is easy to clean.
  • Other products are available, if you are looking for a matching set.

If you take good care of them, these pans will provide beauty and stick-free cooking for years to come.

Check current prices and reviews from customers on Amazon.

Gotham Steel Nonstick “Copper”

When I first laid eyes on this product, I got really excited because I’d never seen a copper baking sheet before. But alas, these are copper in color only.

Nonetheless, this pan is a unique option in the ceramic category. It’s made of something different, and perhaps far more interesting, than copper would be.

Square image of twelve cookies in three rows on a copper-colored Gotham Steel rimmed baking sheet, on a gray kitchen counter with baking ingredients, a mixer, and measuring implements.

Gotham Steel Nonstick Cookie Sheet in Copper

Comprised of aluminum coated with a Ti-Cerama™ surface, titanium is combined with ceramic to create a durable and nonstick product.

Measuring 18 by 12 inches with a 1-inch rim, this pan is dishwasher safe, oven safe up to 500°F, and you can even use metal utensils on it without having to worry about scratches.

The nonstick coating is chemical free, it won’t peel, and the manufacturer claims that you won’t even need any butter or oil to grease this baby up – it’s plenty nonstick on its own (referred to as “super nonstick,” and marketing copy reads, “Just give the pan a tip, and watch them slip”!), so you can save a few calories.

Twenty-piece Gotham steel cookware and bakeware set with copper colored pans, isolated on a white background.

Gotham Steel 20-Piece Aluminum Nonstick Cookware and Bakeware Set

It’s thick with a sturdy rim so it won’t warp, even at high temperatures. It will look nice alongside those copper pans in your collection even though it isn’t really made of copper (and besides, it’s much easier to clean and maintain than real copper would be).

Highlights:

  • Won’t warp, even at high temperatures.
  • Aluminum with Ti-Cerama coating is durable and nonstick.
  • Dishwasher safe.
  • Scratch resistant, and you can use those metal utensils.

If you try this pan and you’re hooked, Gotham Steel offers a variety of matching cookware and bakeware in this line, so you can deck out your whole kitchen. Their 20-piece set makes a lovely gift.

Has this pan piqued your curiosity? Find out more now on Wayfair.

Calphalon Insulated Nonstick Steel

What about insulated options, you ask? We found one that we think is worth giving a closer look.

The insulated nonstick cookie sheet from Calphalon is made of heavy-gauge steel that heats evenly, and it’s warp resistant and safe to use at temperatures up to 500°F.

Calphalon Insulated Nonstick Cookie Sheet, available on Amazon

Interlocking nonstick layers provide easy release of baked goods, and the nonstick finish is designed to be long-lasting. In fact, Calphalon describes the stick-free abilities of these pans as being two times better than that of their Classic Bakeware line. And this product comes with a full lifetime warranty, so you can trust that it will last.

Dishwasher safe, this pan measures 14 by 16 inches with a slightly raised edge on two sides. An interior layer of air provides protection from unwanted browning, so it’s the perfect option for those more delicate baked goods.

Using nylon or wooden tools rather than metal is recommended, to prevent scratching. Allow this pan to cool completely before washing, and avoid the use of cooking oil sprays as they may lead to unwanted buildup and decrease the effectiveness of the nonstick coating in the long run.

Highlights:

  • Insulated steel with interlocking nonstick layers and a layer of air prevents unwanted browning.
  • Oven safe at high temperatures, and warp resistant.
  • Superior nonstick coating, an improvement on Calphalon’s Classic Bakeware line.
  • Full lifetime warranty.

Read more about this product now on Amazon.

Made In Aluminum

The Made In sheet pan is manufactured in Wisconsin from commercial grade 3004 aluminum. It is lightweight yet durable, with an 18-gauge thickness.

There are two options available: a quarter or a half sheet pan. The quarter sheet pan has measurements of 9.5 by 13 inches, and the half sheet pan has measurements of 17.75 by 13 inches. Both pans have a 1-inch rim around the edge.

Horizontal image of two baking sheets in different sizes

Made In Quarter Sheet and Half Baking Sheets

Designed in collaboration with a restaurant industry professional, Chef Matt Horn, this option is made to withstand the daily wear and tear of both restaurant and home kitchens. And since this product is chef-approved, you know you’ll be choosing a solid option!

Highlights:

  • Made in the USA
  • Fully recyclable aluminum
  • Oven safe up to 450°F
  • Should be handwashed

The pans are covered under Made In’s limited lifetime warranty. Learn more about the company’s warranty policy here.

If you decide you are interested in a pan with a nonstick coating, Made In also offers a nonstick half sheet pan made with the same 3004 commercial grade aluminum with a durable PFOA-free PTFE coating. In testing, I found this pan to be sturdy and high-quality. Baked goods slid off with ease, and hand washing was a breeze.

KitchenAid Nonstick Aluminized Steel

If you and your KitchenAid stand mixer are culinary besties, make room for one more in the friend group! The company produces a nonstick aluminized steel baking sheet crafted with the same sturdiness and reliability as your favorite appliance.

Overhead image of rimmed silver-colored aluminum baking sheet with raised rim around all four sides, isolated on white background.

KitchenAid Nonstick Aluminized Steel Baking Sheet

With its extended handles, you’ll be able to have a secure grip when lifting in and out of the oven. The light color and aluminized steel construction are helpful for even heat distribution and can withstand oven temperatures up to 450°F.

The exterior measurements are 21 by 14 by 1 inches, and the interior measurements are 13 by 18 by 1 inches.

Highlights:

  • Coated nonstick scratch-resistant surface
  • Dishwasher safe
  • Aluminized steel construction
  • Wide, extended handles

Check current prices and read more about this product on Wayfair now.
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Time to Bake!

A good cookie sheet is one you’ll be making delicious memories with for years to come. Get a good one such as the Nordic Ware commercial-grade offering that we recommended above, and you’ll never have to worry about buckled sheets or heat warping again.

Our #1 Recommended Pick for Most People – the Nordic Ware Nature Commercial Baker’s Half Sheet

No matter how often you bake, you’ll need a good quality sheet. Whichever you decide to go with, I’m confident you’ll be happy with your purchase.

Once you get that new baking sheet, the real question is: what type of cookies are you going to make first? Read my 10 Tips for Baking Perfect Cookies Every Time before you get started.

Horizontal closely cropped image of freshly baked chocolate chip cookies arranged in rows on a brown aged metal sheet pan with a short rim, on a beige background.

Feel free to ask any additional questions you might have in the comments below, and be sure to let us know what pan you go with. Happy baking!

Looking for even more top recommended products to round out your collection of baking gear? Next up, read our guides to:

© Ask the Experts, LLC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. See our TOS for more details. Product photos via All-Clad, Anolon, Calphalon, Farberware, Gotham Steel, GreenLife, KitchanAid, Made In, Norpro, Rachael Ray. TeamFar, Wezvix, Wilton. Originally published by Sarah Hagstrom on February 11, 2016. Last updated October 20, 2021. Some test products provided by the manufacturer. Uncredited photos: Shutterstock.

About Allison Sidhu

Allison M. Sidhu is a culinary enthusiast from southeastern Pennsylvania who has returned to Philly after a seven-year sojourn to sunny LA. She loves exploring the local restaurant and bar scene with her best buds. She holds a BA in English literature from Swarthmore College and an MA in gastronomy from Boston University. When she’s not in the kitchen whipping up something tasty (or listening to the latest food podcasts while she does the dishes!) you’ll probably find Allison tapping away at her keyboard, chilling in the garden, curled up with a good book (or ready to dominate with controller in hand in front of the latest video game) on the couch, or devouring a dollar dog and crab fries at the Phillies game.

29 thoughts on “The Best Baking and Cookie Sheet Pans on the Market Today”

  1. I’m having serious cookie sheet envy right now 😛 The first one might have to go on my Amazon wishlist! Currently I’ve got a mismatched set that includes a couple cheap rimmed versions and then one nicer insulated one. You’re right about it being great for delicate cookies. Some of my recipes can survive a low quality cookie sheet, but having an insulated one definitely makes a big difference.

    Reply
  2. All these sheets are awesome. What i’d like to see next is their prices. I fear kitchen tools that leave a big dent in my wallet. I remember buying my current sheet as a second hand because i could not afford a new one from the supermarket. Kindly update this article please.

    Reply
    • Hey Charlie!

      The Prices are located on the links above. I didn’t write them out because they change often and I want readers to have the most accurate information. You can find the most up to date prices, by clicking on the link of the product your interested in.

      I hope that helps!

      Reply
  3. This was really helpful! I read this article because I love to bake. I usually use cheap dollar store or Walmart baking pans. I want to start baking to sell and I’m looking for some professional, quality supplies. This information will be put to use.

    Reply
  4. I love to bake cookies and other things, so thank you so much. I always go for the cheap pans which cause my cookies to get burnt or stick. This article helped me a lot, so thank you so much! I love your website.

    Reply
  5. I have been looking for new baking sheets to replace my old, discolored ones and saw the Nordic Ware ones on Amazon. I second-guessed myself when I saw how inexpensive they are and decided to hold off on buying them. I am glad to see that my logic was correct. Great minds think alike, right?

    I currently own a pair of the Farberware cookie sheets (the ones without an edge), but they became discolored and warped after about three months of normal use. It might just be a problem with the edge-less design, but I figured this might be something that you would like to know about.

    I have been thinking of getting the silicone mats because an article I read a while ago said that baking spray can cause discoloration. Have you found this to be true in general, or is it the quality of materials used to make the spray or the sheets?

    Thanks for the article and recommendations! It has made the process of shopping for bakeware a whole lot easier for me.

    Reply
  6. I’ve been using Nordic Ware because it’s the only quality company here in Romania that provides cookie sheet pans, I have no issues with it and whenever I bake my chocolate-chip cookies turn out great. I would love a recipe for the cookies in the first photo though, the glazed ones. 😀

    Reply
  7. We’ve trashed a lot of these in my house, sometimes we just use them as ice containers. We currently use the average aluminium sheet pans, we do not really care about the brand since these don’t last too long no matter what the brand is. Thank you for sharing.

    Reply
  8. I was very disappointed in the NordicWare sheet pan. It’s pretty light, and since I use them to roast vegetables, it will warp at the high temperature

    Reply
  9. Hi, Question. We know how bad aluminum is for us, so I’m wondering why you recommend aluminum cooking pans? Are there not any top quality pans without aluminum or copper?
    Thanks,

    Reply
    • Hi Diane. Thanks for your question. If you’re concerned about using aluminum in cooking, see the section on carbon steel pans above. Unfortunately, these are not the best heat conductors. Using silicone liners or parchment paper is an excellent option.

      Reply
  10. Thanks for sharing this guide Sarah. I’ve learned a lot and enjoyed reading this article.
    I was wondering if Aluminium bakeware is safe to use for a long term baking? Which material should I be focused on for safety purposes?

    Reply
  11. From my own research, the best baking sheets are not aluminum but stainless steel. So while the reviews generally tend to point as Nordic Ware as one of the best, I won’t buy it as it aluminum still reacts to food (unless stainless steel) and more importantly, it is not dishwasher safe. Time is money for me – I’d rather pay more and get a stainless steel baking sheet.

    Reply
    • I agree Ash, aluminum is a threat to me for cooking or baking because I’ve been warned about never cooking with aluminum. I only work with vegetarian cuisine, cooking or baking. I’m not sure the baking results with stainless will stand up to the professional “look” of baked goods from aluminum or other steel baking pans. I’m continue researching this matter. The professional kitchens I’ve worked in did not use stainless steel. In the meanwhile I am purchasing unbleached parchment paper for liners. I also wonder about mat safety, all looking too plastic for me.
      Glad you spoke up, what I was hoping to find in comments.

      Reply
      • This is certainly a hotly debated topic, but research-based scientific consensus is that cooking on aluminum bakeware poses no threat to health. Though cooking acidic foods in or on aluminum pots and pans that have not been anodized or clad in a material that is non-reactive or nonstick should generally be avoided, as acids are reactive with aluminum and this may result in damage to the cookware as well, the risk of metal leaching into foods is still minimal. According to testing conducted by Cook’s Illustrated in 2012, “tomato sauce… cooked in an aluminum pot for two hours and then stored in the same pot overnight was found to contain only .0024 milligrams of aluminum per cup.” In comparison, “A single antacid tablet may contain more than 200 milligrams of aluminum.” Food for thought, indeed!

        Lining pans with parchment paper is an excellent idea to extend the life of your pans, and silicone mats also provide for easy cleanup. Research has shown silicone baking mats to be heat-safe and inert, and chemicals won’t leach into foods. Food grade silicone is not the same thing as plastic, with a non-porous surface and structure that’s more akin to soft glass. Keep in mind that they should not be heated above recommended temperatures, as described according to the manufacturer.

        Reply
  12. I am looking for stainless steel baking pans with lip, made in USA for roasting tomatoes. I hope to find ones that don’t warp. Any suggestions?

    Reply
  13. So my question is about the heavy duty pan/sheet that comes with the oven. What type is it and what can I make in it and what I should not make in it? Can I bake in it? Should I reduce temperature/ baking time? Thank you!

    Reply
    • The type that you’re referring to is usually a two-piece broiler pan, and it’s best for cooking proteins under the broiler. These are usually nonstick, with a large cook surface. The slats in the grate on top allow fat and drippings to fall through and collect in the bottom pan, to promote even cooking (liquids will drip away from the meat rather than causing the bottom of your roast to steam in its own juices). I’ve never tried using the bottom pan alone for cooking or baking- the bottom does not typically have a completely flat surface, and the high, rounded sides impede airflow, meaning this is not a good choice for baking cookies. No adjustments to bake time should be needed if you are broiling meat or fish.

      Reply
  14. I’ve been in search of a good commercial-grade [read:durable] non-stick rimmed cookie sheet for some time. This article is titled “THE BEST BAKING AND COOKIE SHEET PANS ON THE MARKET TODAY”, when it seems to me that it’s virtually all the baking pans on the market today.

    While the introduction on the various types, materials, and finishes are helpful to the newcomer, there don’t seem to be reviews based on experience here. I know from personal experience, for example, that the Anolon products’ finish begins to flake off within a year (no mistreatment–temps not exceeding 285, hand washing). I have the Calphalon products. They are durable, as expected, but the warp in the oven. I have two layer alu rimless which are good for cookies because of even heat distribution. I’ve had the “Chicago” brand; though they were a nice heavy pan, the finish didn’t last 3 months before it flaked off. Garbage.

    After reading this article, I am no closer to finding the right pan.

    Reply
    • Thanks for your feedback, Randy. The Anolon is certainly a budget product, and many of these pans will not withstand the test of time. But we did our best to include pans in a variety of materials. Their durability varies, and for the stainless pans in particular, it’s tough to find one that won’t warp. Preheating pans before baking can help.

      May own pans are stained and well-used, and I prefer uncoated options that I can top with parchment or a silicone liner for easy cleanup.

      Reply
    • Hi, Dana! This could be a small mistake on Amazon’s specifications. According to the GreenLife company website, and our own research, these particular pans have a nonstick ceramic coating with a steel base that is free of PFAS, PFOA, lead, or cadmium.

      Reply
  15. “A rim can actually block the circulation of hot air in your oven, preventing cookies from baking evenly.” Does this refer to a convection oven?

    The Nordic Ware sheet has rims, yet we read “We believe the Nordic Ware Natural Aluminum Commercial Baker’s Half Sheet is the very best for baking cookies, for most people.”

    Is there a discrepancy, or am i missing something? Thanks.

    Reply
    • In comparison to a rimless baking sheet, sheet pans with a tall rim or rolled edge can block hot air from circulating to some degree. A convection oven has fans that circulate the air and food will typically cook faster than it would in a typical oven – but a rimmed sheet pan will block airflow to some extent in these as well.

      Though rimless sheet pans are often recommended for baking cookies, I personally use baking pans with a rim – no risk of accidental slippage that way!

      Reply

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