Here’s Why You Should Never Grease Your Cookie Sheet

Great cookies aren’t just about finding the perfect recipe—they’re also about how you treat your baking tools. If you’ve ever been told to grease your cookie sheet to prevent sticking, it’s time to rethink that habit. Greasing can do more harm than good, often leading to burnt, greasy, and downright disappointing cookies. Let’s break down why this common baking tip is one you should leave behind.

Why Greasing a Cookie Sheet Can Ruin Your Cookies

The logic behind greasing a cookie sheet seems sound: it’s supposed to stop cookies from sticking. But here’s the problem—most cookie doughs already contain plenty of fat, whether from butter, shortening, or oil. When you add a layer of grease to the pan, it combines with the fat in the dough, creating an overly slick surface. This encourages the dough to spread too much, making your cookies thin, misshapen, and crispy in all the wrong places.

Worse, the grease heats up quickly in the oven, causing the bottom of your cookies to brown—or burn—faster than the tops can bake. Instead of golden perfection, you get charred disasters that might taste like regret. And let’s not even get started on how unevenly cookies bake on a greasy sheet; it’s chaos on a tray.

When (and If) Greasing Might Be Necessary

That said, there are exceptions to every rule. Certain cookie recipes, like lace cookies or some delicate Florentines, call for very low-fat doughs that lack the natural greasiness needed to prevent sticking. In these rare cases, a lightly greased sheet—or better yet, a nonstick baking mat—can help. But for your classic chocolate chip, oatmeal raisin, or peanut butter cookies, skip the grease. Your dough already has your back.

Even when a recipe seems unconventional, it’s always best to follow its specific instructions. If the cookie gods demand grease, they probably have their reasons. Just make sure it’s applied sparingly to avoid overkill.

The Best Way to Prevent Sticking Without Grease

So, if you’re not greasing the sheet, how do you keep your cookies from welding themselves to the pan? The solution is simpler—and tidier—than you might think. Parchment paper is your best friend here. Not only does it create a perfectly smooth, nonstick surface, but it also makes cleanup a breeze. No scraping, no soaking—just toss the paper and enjoy your cookies.

If parchment paper isn’t your style, a silicone baking mat is another foolproof option. These mats provide even heat distribution and an effortless release, ensuring your cookies bake consistently every time. Both methods save your cookies from sticking without the side effects of grease.