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What purpose does parchment paper serve in baking?

  1. To increase cooking time

  2. To provide a non-stick surface and make for easy cleanup

  3. To absorb excess moisture

  4. To keep ingredients fresh

The correct answer is: To provide a non-stick surface and make for easy cleanup

Parchment paper serves the primary purpose of providing a non-stick surface when baking, which facilitates the easy release of baked goods from pans without them sticking. This characteristic is particularly beneficial for items like cookies, pastries, and cakes, ensuring they maintain their shape and texture when being removed from the baking tray or pan. In addition to preventing sticking, parchment paper also simplifies cleanup, as it can prevent baked-on residue from adhering to the pan, making it easier to wipe clean afterward. While absorbing moisture can be useful in certain contexts of cooking, parchment paper does not significantly absorb moisture during the baking process. It also does not play a role in extending the freshness of ingredients as that function is typically associated with proper storage conditions rather than cooking surfaces. Furthermore, it does not affect cooking time; instead, it helps maintain the intended baking conditions. This makes the choice of parchment paper as a non-stick and easy cleanup tool particularly relevant and beneficial in baking practices.