Freezer paper is a must-have for many home chefs. It is an excellent tool for wrapping meat, storing leftovers, and even crafting.
Sometimes, you may discover yourself in a situation where you do not have freezer paper readily available.
In such cases, you will need some ideal substitutes that can work just as well.
In this post, I will share 10 of the great choices that you can use as a substitute for freezer paper, along with their measurement.
In short, "What can I use instead of freezer paper?" Parchment Paper, Aluminum Foil, Plastic Wrap, Wax Paper, Ziploc Bags, Glass Containers, Plastic Containers, Plastic Bags, Butcher Paper, Tea Towels or Cloth Napkins, Bread Bags, Foil Bags, Glass Jars, and Silicone Storage Bags.
What is freezer paper, and what does freezer paper taste like?
Freezer paper is a thick, plastic-coated paper often used for crafts or food preservation. This is not suggested to be eaten and does not have a taste.
The plastic coating prevents freezer burn and helps keep contents airtight. Freezer paper is typically brown kraft paper with a polyethylene coating on one side.
When used for food preservation, like wrapping meats or baked goods, the uncoated side is placed against the food.
Since it is not meant to be ingested, freezer paper should not be tasted and does not have a flavor.
Uses of freezer paper
Freezer paper has many useful applications in cooking and craft projects. In the kitchen, freezer paper can be used to wrap meats or other foods for freezing.
The plastic coating prevents freezer burn and keeps food fresh for longer.
To use, simply cut sheets of freezer paper to size, place the shiny side down on the food, and seal tightly with foil or tape.
For crafts, freezer paper is great for stenciling and dyeing fabrics or other materials.
The plastic side can be drawn on with a permanent marker to create custom stencils. Place the stencil on the fabric and sponge or spray paint overtop.
Once dry, peel away the stencil to reveal your design. The plastic also resists the dye, so you can wrap parts of the fabric with freezer paper to create interesting patterns.
After dyeing, simply remove the freezer paper to unveil your unique creation.
With its moisture-resistant and resealable properties, freezer paper has many functional uses in and out of the kitchen.
From food preservation to creative projects, this versatile and inexpensive material is worth keeping on hand.
Where to buy freezer paper?
If you searching for where to buy freezer paper, there are a few other places you can go. Many specialty food stores carry it, as do some international grocery stores.
You can also order online from many retailers that provide a variety of diverse flavors and types of freezer paper.
Discover more: Latest Food processor Substitutes for your kitchen
Best substitutes for freezer paper
1. Parchment Paper
Parchment paper is another ideal substitute for freezer paper. It is non-stick, moisture-resistant, and can withstand freezing temperatures.
It is an excellent choice for wrapping delicate items like fish and vegetables. When using parchment paper, make sure that you overlap the edges to create a tight seal.
2. Aluminum Foil
You can utilize aluminum foil as an excellent substitute for freezer paper. Aluminum foil is a universal material that can handle both extreme cold and heat.
It is a great option for wrapping large items like cuts of meat or poultry.
However, it is vital to note that aluminum foil can react with acidic foods, so you should avoid using it to wrap these types of foods.
3. Plastic Wrap
Plastic wrap is a useful alternative to freezer paper. It is affordable, lightweight, and easy to find. However, plastic wrap is not as sturdy as freezer paper.
For this reason, this is best used for wrapping foods that will not be stored for long periods.
4. Wax Paper
This is an excellent alternative to freezer paper.
It is a moisture-resistant barrier that is perfect for protecting food from freezer burn. If you are using wax paper, remember that it is not as strong as freezer paper, and it may tear easily.
For this reason, you should use multiple layers of wax paper when wrapping your food.
Wax paper is readily available in most grocery stores.
5. Ziploc Bags
Ziploc bags are a popular choice for storing food in the freezer. They are also known in various sizes and are affordable.
Ziploc bags are perfect for storing small items such as chopped vegetables, fruits, and nuts.
6. Glass Containers
Glass containers are an excellent option for freezing and storing food. They’re sturdy and reusable, and you can see the contents inside easily.
7. Plastic Containers
Food-grade plastic containers are also another great alternative to freezer paper. They’re available in several sizes, and they’re great for storing food in the freezer.
8. Plastic Bags
Plastic bags can be an excellent alternative to freezer paper. They’re suitable for portioning your food, and they seal effectively.
9. Butcher Paper
Butcher paper is a sturdy material that is perfect for wrapping meat.
It is moisture-resistant and can protect your meat from freezer burn. Butcher paper is available in most kitchen supply stores.
When using butcher paper, make sure that you wrap your meat tightly to prevent air from getting in.
10. Tea Towels or Cloth Napkins
These are ideal for wrapping bread, cheese, cookies, and other baked goods to prevent freezer burn. Make sure to wrap them tightly and secure them with a rubber band.
11. Bread Bags
Bread bags are an ideal option for storing foods in the freezer. They are made from a moisture-resistant material that can protect your food from freezer burn.
If you don’t have freezer bags, you can use bread bags to protect your food. However, remember to double-bag your food to ensure maximum protection.
12. Foil Bags
Foil bags are an ideal substitute for freezer bags. They are made from aluminum foil and are perfect for storing foods that will be cooked directly from the freezer.
Foil bags are available in most grocery stores and are affordable.
13. Glass Jars
Glass jars are an excellent option for storing frozen foods. They are reusable and environmentally friendly.
However, you should avoid filling your glass jars to the top, as the contents may expand during freezing.
14. Silicone Storage Bags
Silicone storage bags are a new trend in the world of food storage. They are eco-friendly, reusable, and can handle both hot and cold temperatures.
Silicone storage bags are perfect for freezing food as they don’t have any harmful chemicals.
Learn more: Perfect cream of cheddar Substitutes for tasty cooking
freezer paper substitute for sewing
Freezer paper is a staple supply for many sewing and craft projects, as it allows you to temporarily adhere fabric pieces together.
However, if you’re in a pinch and don’t have any freezer paper on hand, here are some suitable substitutes:
1. Parchment paper: Parchment paper is non-stick and heat resistant, making it a good option for temporarily adhering fabric. It may not be as stiff as freezer paper, but it will work in a pinch.
2. Wax paper: Like parchment paper, wax paper is non-stick and can work as a temporary adhesive for sewing projects. However, the wax coating may transfer to your fabric, so test it in an inconspicuous area first.
3. Newspaper: For simple sewing projects, newspapers can work as a temporary adhesive. The ink may transfer to lighter fabrics, so use caution and test it first. The paper will also tear more easily than freezer paper.
4. Gift wrap tissue paper: Delicate tissue paper can work for adhering fabric pieces with a hot iron, as long as you are careful not to wrinkle or tear the paper. It’s best for small or simple projects.
5. Contact paper: Contact paper has an adhesive backing that can stick to fabric and be removed later. However, it may leave behind residue or not release the fabric cleanly. First, test it in a small space and use caution.
Explore more: Best Substitutes for Immersion Blender
freezer paper vs. baking paper
Freezer paper and baking paper are both versatile kitchen materials that can be used for a wide variety of tasks.
Freezer paper is thicker than baking paper and has a slightly glossy surface. It is specifically designed to keep food fresh by sealing in moisture, so it is an excellent choice for wrapping meats and vegetables before freezing them.
Baking paper, on the other hand, is thinner than freezer paper and has a duller finish.
It’s designed to stand up to higher temperatures while keeping food from sticking to the pan or parchment when baking; it’s also great for rolling out dough or using it as a liner in cake pans and cookie sheets.
Both freezer and baking paper can be used as liners inside dishes or containers such as casseroles, but only freezer paper should be used if you plan to store the dish in the refrigerator or freezer later on.
Conclusion on substitute for freezer paper
In conclusion, freezer paper is a helpful kitchen essential, but there are many suitable alternatives for this.
The great thing about these choices is that they’re items that most people already have in their kitchen.
Opt for any of these alternatives, and won’t have to worry about going to the market—or running out of freezer paper ever again.
So, whenever you’re out of freezer paper, turn to any of these ten alternatives and keep your food fresh and freezer burn-free.
FAQs on substitute for freezer paper
Q1. What is similar to freezer paper?
Wax paper is a good alternative to freezer paper. It can be used for food storage, wrapping and coating containers. The wax paper protects food from moisture by providing a barrier between the item and its environment while still allowing little air to pass through.
Additionally, wax paper is grease-resistant, which helps prevent it from sticking to the item being wrapped or stored. Wax paper should not be used in the microwave or oven as it will melt and is not recommended for high-temperature cooking or baking applications.
Q2. Can I use parchment paper in place of freezer paper?
Yes, parchment paper can be used in place of freezer paper. Parchment paper is heat resistant and can withstand temperatures up to 420 degrees Fahrenheit, making it perfect for usage on a grill or in the oven. It works great for lining baking sheets, wrapping food for storage and even preventing sticking when rolling out dough.
Freezer paper has a wax coating which helps to protect foods from moisture loss during freezing, so parchment paper is not an appropriate substitute if you are looking to freeze something.
Q3. Can I use aluminum foil instead of freezer paper?
Aluminum foil can work as an alternative to freezer paper for some applications, but it does have some disadvantages and limitations compared to freezer paper:
Pros:
– Aluminum foil is inexpensive and readily available at most grocery stores.
– It can form an airtight seal to keep air out, which is useful for some food preservation methods like storing leftovers or making freezer meals.
Cons:
– Aluminum foil is not as durable as freezer paper and can tear more easily. Freezer paper is thicker and more heavy-duty.
– Aluminum foil is not ideal for high-heat applications since it can melt. Freezer paper has a higher heat tolerance.
– Aluminum foil is not reusable like freezer paper. Once the foil is crinkled or torn, it should be discarded. Freezer paper can be reused multiple times.
In summary, aluminum foil can work in a pinch as a substitute for freezer paper for some uses, but for high-heat or long-term storage applications, freezer paper is more suitable. It depends on the exact use case and requirements. If durability and reusability are important, freezer paper would be the better choice.
Q4. Is freezer paper necessary?
Freezer paper is not necessary for all types of crafts or cooking projects. Freezer paper is a thick, plastic-coated paper that can be used to wrap foods for freezing or used as a stencil or template in craft projects. The plastic coating allows the paper to stick to surfaces when pressed on but then peel away cleanly without leaving behind residue.
This makes freezer paper ideal when you want a material that sticks temporarily but then releases easily. However, for many crafts like decoupaging or gift wrapping, regular wax or parchment paper would work just fine and is more budget-friendly.
For freezing foods, an airtight container or heavy-duty aluminum foil can also be sufficient and more environmentally friendly than disposable freezer paper. So while freezer paper has its uses, it is not universally necessary and depends on the specific project or task at hand.
Q5. Can wax paper be used instead of freezer paper?
Wax paper and freezer paper are both useful for protecting foods and surfaces, but they are not interchangeable and have different uses:
Freezer paper is a heavyweight paper coated with plastic on one side. It is designed for sealing and protecting foods when freezing. The plastic coating prevents moisture loss and protects against freezer burn.
Wax paper is a lightweight paper coated or impregnated with wax. It is not moisture- or airtight and is not suitable for freezing foods. However, wax paper is great for lining baking sheets, wrapping foods for storage at room temperature, and protecting surfaces during crafts or home improvement projects. The wax prevents sticking but allows some moisture transmission.
For best results, use freezer paper for freezing foods and wax paper for other purposes. While wax paper can work in a pinch as a surface protector, it will not adequately protect foods from freezer burn. Freezer paper is not ideal as a craft surface protector or for lining baking sheets since its plastic coating may melt under high temperatures. Each type of paper has specific uses, so choose the right one for the planned purpose.
