What is a Jelly Roll Pan?

Jelly roll cakes, also known as roulades, Swiss rolls, or cream rolls, are a delightful dessert consisting of a thin cake rolled up with jelly and other fillings. Their charming, spiral appearance makes them as fun to look at as they are to eat. Given their delicate structure, it's no surprise they require specialized tools for preparation.

Jelly roll cakes are famous for their paper-thin sponge layers, and if you've ever wondered how bakers manage to create the perfect spiral in such a thin cake, the answer lies not just in technique but in the use of a specially designed jelly roll pan.

What is a Jelly Roll Pan?

At first glance, a jelly roll pan might seem similar to a regular sheet pan, but it's slightly smaller, typically measuring about 15 by 10 inches. This size difference places it between a half-sheet pan and a quarter-sheet pan in terms of dimensions.

Unlike standardized sheet trays, jelly roll pans come in various sizes depending on the brand. These pans also feature shallower sides, making it easier to release the baked cake. Since unmolding can be a nerve-racking part of baking a jelly roll cake, many pans include a non-stick coating to help with the process.

Some recipes may call for a jelly roll pan without specifying the size, while others will provide precise measurements to achieve the best results. Be sure to check the recipe carefully for this information before buying your pan.

Find the recipe: Walnut Cream Roll

Jelly Roll Pan vs. Baking Sheet

The term 'baking sheet' is a broad label that can include cookie sheets without lips, standard half-sheet trays, non-standard rimmed sheets, and even jelly roll pans. Essentially, any metal sheet pan could be considered a baking sheet, with no fixed definition or size requirements.

On the other hand, a jelly roll pan is a specialized tool designed for a specific recipe. It's crafted specifically to bake jelly roll cakes, while items labeled 'baking sheets' are intended for a broader range of baking needs. While some baking sheets might match the size and shape of a jelly roll pan, they’re not always ideal for the job.

What Can You Use a Jelly Roll Pan For?

A jelly roll pan isn't just for jelly roll cakes; it's quite similar to a regular baking sheet. It works well for smaller tasks like roasting vegetables, baking a few sweet potatoes for meal prep, or cooking a handful of chicken nuggets.

An unconventional use for a jelly roll pan is as a press for items on a half-sheet tray. Since a jelly roll pan fits neatly inside a half-sheet pan, it’s perfect for pressing a whole batch of baby potatoes for smashed potatoes or for holding down ingredients like fish skin, which might otherwise curl up and lose contact with the pan during baking.

What Can You Use as a Substitute for a Jelly Roll Pan?

Finding a substitute for a jelly roll pan can be tricky. If you've ever tried baking a rolled cake, you know just how delicate it is, and even a small change in the pan size can lead to problems. Most recipes calling for a jelly roll pan are designed specifically for its size.

Since jelly roll pans are smaller than half-sheet trays, using a larger pan will spread the batter out more, resulting in a thinner cake. This also speeds up cooking time, which can make it harder to roll the cake and increase the risk of burning or drying it out.

If you have any pans, even glass baking dishes, that are similar in size to a jelly roll pan, these might work as alternatives. However, be aware that without the right pan, this already tricky dessert may become even harder to master.