Food Encyclopedia

Silpat

The brand name of an FDA-approved nonstick baking and countertop sheet produced by several manufacturers. It's made of silicone with a reinforced glass weave, does not require greasing and provides even heat transfer. Silpat is effective at temperatures ranging from –40°F to 480°F. It comes in several sizes, the most popular being 16 X 11⁷⁄₈ inches (fits in a jelly roll pan), 24½ X 16½ inches (for countertop use in rolling out doughs and such) and a 10¼-inch octagonal shape for microwave ovens. Silpat mats can be found at gourmet shops and many department store kitchenware sections.