A jelly roll pan is a shallow baking pan with raised edges, commonly used for baking thin sponge cakes that are rolled with fillings to make jelly rolls or Swiss rolls. It is also suitable for baking cookies, roasting vegetables, sheet cakes, bars, and other recipes that benefit from a rimmed baking pan.
Jelly Roll Pans
5 productsAbout Jelly Roll Pans
Jelly roll pans are rectangular, rimmed baking sheets sized to hold thin batters and gentle rises, originally developed for rolled cakes like Swiss rolls and jelly roll cakes. These pans give batter enough room to expand and set without spilling over the edge. The raised rim also helps contain juices or sweet glazes during baking, which makes these pans more versatile than flat cookie sheets. Because of their proportions, jelly roll pans are especially useful when you want a thin, even layer of cake that can be lifted and rolled without breaking.
They are also handy for sheet cakes, brownies, dessert bars, and items that benefit from a broad, even surface and controlled edges. The short walls keep batters from spreading too far, which helps maintain texture and height across the pan. In everyday baking, these pans work well for small batches too. Their size fits most home ovens easily, and the rimmed sides make them suitable for quick roasting of vegetables or baking small portions of savory dishes. Choosing a jelly roll pan that resists warping and conducts heat steadily helps your bakes cook evenly from corner to corner, so you can judge doneness by sight and feel rather than guesswork.
Frequently Asked Questions
5 Questions
A jelly roll pan has raised edges on all four sides, allowing it to hold batters, juices, and other liquids. A baking sheet is typically flatter and may have one or more rimless edges, making it easier to slide cookies and pastries on and off. Jelly roll pans are more versatile for recipes that require shallow sides.
A standard jelly roll pan typically measures 10 × 15 inches (25 × 38 cm) with sides that are about 1 inch (2.5 cm) high. This size is commonly specified in recipes for rolled sponge cakes and other baked goods.
Yes. A jelly roll pan can be used to bake cookies, especially if you prefer the added security of raised edges. Just be sure to leave enough space between cookies for proper air circulation and even baking.
Line the pan with parchment paper, allowing it to cover the base and, if needed, extend slightly up the sides. For extra security with delicate cakes, lightly grease the pan before placing the parchment paper, then grease the parchment if the recipe recommends it. This helps ensure easy release and makes cleanup much simpler.
