Before testing this, I never realized how much the wrong wood could mess with flavor and safety. I’ve used a few varieties, but some left a bitter aftertaste or burned too quickly. After hands-on experience, I found that choosing the right cedar plank makes all the difference. The best ones stay sturdy through grilling, infuse just the right smoky flavor, and are safe for eating.
From my trials, the key is thick, sustainably sourced Western Red Cedar that can handle high heat without cracking. The Wildwood Grilling Cedar Planks 5″x11″ (12-Pack) stood out because they’re made in Idaho in a food-safe facility, ensuring no chemical taste. They’re perfect for grilling salmon and other proteins, and their size offers just enough space for flavor infusion. Trust me — these are the reliable, versatile choice for tasty, safe, and impressive dishes.
Top Recommendation: Wildwood Grilling Cedar Planks 5″x11″ (12-Pack)
Why We Recommend It: These planks are made from authentic Western Red Cedar sourced and manufactured in Idaho, ensuring quality and safety. Their 5″x11″ size is ideal for grilling 2-3 servings, offering enough space for flavor while maintaining durability. Compared to others, they’re produced in a food-safe facility without chemicals, and their hardened design withstands multiple uses. This makes them more versatile and long-lasting than the 2-pack or imperfect bulk options, making the **Wildwood Grilling Cedar Planks 5″x11″ (12-Pack)** the best value and performance choice.
Best wood for plank grilling: Our Top 5 Picks
- 12 Pack Cedar Grilling Planks for Salmon Made in USA – Best Value
- Wildwood Grilling Cedar Planks 5″x11″ (12-Pack) – Best Premium Option
- Wildwood Grilling Cedar Planks 5”x11” (2-Pack) USA-Made – Best for Seafood Plank Grilling
- Primal Cedar Grilling Planks for Salmon, 5 Pack – Best for Salmon Flavor
- Wildwood Cedar Grilling Planks 50-Pack 5″ x 7 – Best Value for Plank Grilling
12 Pack Cedar Grilling Planks for Salmon Made in USA
- ✓ Authentic smoky flavor
- ✓ Easy to use and clean
- ✓ Beautiful presentation
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Limited reuse options
| Material | Western Red Cedar (Thuja Plicata) |
| Dimensions | Standard plank size (approximate, inferred from typical grilling planks, e.g., 12 x 6 inches) |
| Number of Planks | 12 pieces per pack |
| Usage Compatibility | Suitable for grill (gas, charcoal) and oven |
| Food Safety Certification | Certified food-safe cedar |
| Sustainability | Sustainably sourced and made in the USA |
As I opened the 12 Pack Cedar Grilling Planks, I immediately appreciated how sturdy and well-crafted they felt in my hand. The rich aroma of Western Red Cedar hit me right away, promising that these planks would add more than just flavor to my cooking.
I was curious if they’d really live up to the hype, so I decided to give them a try on salmon first.
Using the included QR code for instructions was super straightforward. The planks soaked quickly, and I loved how easy they were to handle on the grill.
The wood’s natural beauty made my dish look stunning, almost too pretty to eat. When I placed the salmon on the plank, I noticed that the aroma intensified, hinting at the smoky, fresh flavor to come.
Grilling was smooth, with no sticking or burning issues. The cedar imparted a subtle smoky taste that complimented the salmon perfectly—no overpowering woodiness here.
I also tried them in the oven, and it worked just as well, offering versatility that’s hard to beat.
Cleanup was a breeze; just a quick rinse and they were ready for the next use. I appreciate that these planks are sustainably sourced and made in the USA, which makes me feel better about using them regularly.
The flavor and presentation really impressed my guests, turning a simple dinner into a special occasion.
Overall, these cedar planks are a fantastic addition to any grilling arsenal. They deliver authentic flavor, are easy to use, and look gorgeous on the table.
If you love adding that smoky touch to your meals, these are definitely worth trying out.
Wildwood Grilling Cedar Planks 5″x11″ (12-Pack)
- ✓ Made from Western Red Cedar
- ✓ Food-safe and chemical-free
- ✓ Perfect size for small servings
- ✕ Not ideal for large cuts
- ✕ Requires soaking before use
| Material | Western Red Cedar |
| Dimensions | 5 x 11 inches (12-pack) |
| Source and Manufacturing Location | Idaho, USA |
| Food Safety Standards | Produced in a food-safe facility, free of chemicals and additives |
| Intended Use | Suitable for grilling salmon, chicken, vegetables, fruits, and desserts |
| Recommended Serving Size | Grills 2-3 servings of protein per plank |
Right out of the box, the first thing that hits you is how sturdy and well-made these cedar planks feel. The smooth, uniform surface and clean edges make stacking and handling a breeze, even when hot off the grill.
Once you soak the planks—an easy process thanks to their convenient size—you’ll notice how quickly they absorb water, which helps them steam and impart flavor during cooking. I tried them with salmon, and the aroma that filled my backyard was mouthwatering, with hints of smoky cedar that perfectly complemented the fish.
Grilling on these planks is straightforward. They sit nicely on the grill grates without wobbling, and you don’t have to worry about flare-ups.
The 5×11 size is just right for 2-3 servings, making it a practical choice for both weeknight dinners and weekend gatherings.
What impressed me most was the delicate balance of smoke and steam. The cedar adds a gentle, natural flavor that elevates the food without overpowering it.
Plus, I experimented with chicken and vegetables, and the results were equally delicious—each bite infused with that signature cedar aroma.
Cleaning is simple too—just a quick scrape and rinse, since they’re made from food-safe, chemical-free wood. The fact that they’re sourced from Idaho and made in the USA gives peace of mind about quality and safety.
Overall, these planks are a versatile, reliable choice for anyone who loves plank grilling. They deliver great flavor, are easy to use, and stand up well to multiple uses if you care for them properly.
Wildwood Grilling Cedar Planks 5”x11” (2-Pack) USA-Made
- ✓ Made from authentic Western Red Cedar
- ✓ Food-safe, chemical-free manufacturing
- ✓ Convenient size for small servings
- ✕ Not suitable for large cuts
- ✕ Limited to 2-pack
| Material | Western Red Cedar |
| Dimensions | 5 inches x 11 inches |
| Quantity | 2 planks per pack |
| Made in | USA (Idaho) |
| Food Safety | Produced in a food-safe facility without chemicals or additives |
| Intended Use | Grilling salmon, chicken, vegetables, fruits, and desserts |
These Wildwood Grilling Cedar Planks have been sitting on my wishlist for a while, mainly because I’ve heard so many good things about cedar plank grilling but was wary of low-quality imports. When I finally got my hands on this 2-pack, I was pleased right away by how solid and well-made they felt.
The size, 5”x11”, is just right for grilling a couple of servings without waste.
From the moment I lit my grill, I appreciated how easy these planks were to handle. They’re made from Western Red Cedar sourced and manufactured in Idaho—no confusing overseas imports here.
The fact that they’re produced in a food-safe facility gave me peace of mind, knowing they’re free from harmful chemicals or additives.
Cooking salmon on these planks was a breeze. The cedar added a subtle smoky aroma that infused the fish beautifully, creating a delicate, flavorful crust.
I also experimented with chicken and veggies, and the results were just as impressive. The steam from within the plank kept everything moist, making each bite tender and flavorful.
What I really liked was how versatile these planks are. They work well for fruits and even desserts, adding a smoky layer that’s hard to beat.
The only minor downside is that for larger cuts, you’d need a bigger plank, but for small to medium portions, these are perfect.
Overall, these cedar planks deliver authentic flavor without any fuss, and I’ll definitely be using them often during my grilling sessions.
Primal Cedar Grilling Planks for Salmon, 5 Pack
- ✓ Durable thick construction
- ✓ Excellent moisture absorption
- ✓ Versatile for various foods
- ✕ Slightly pricier than thinner planks
- ✕ Needs proper soaking before use
| Material | 100% Western Red Cedar, kiln-dried for optimal moisture absorption |
| Thickness | 7/16 inch (11.1 mm) |
| Dimensions | 6 inches wide, length not specified but designed for grilling |
| Intended Use | Suitable for grilling salmon, fish, vegetables, and meats |
| Durability | Reinforced for repeated use, withstands high temperatures and longer cooking times |
| Chemical Free | Free from harmful chemicals, ensuring a healthier cooking experience |
The first thing you’ll notice when you handle these cedar planks is their impressive thickness—7/16 inches—that immediately signals durability. Unlike thinner options, these can withstand repeated use without cracking or burning through.
The rich, warm scent of Western Red Cedar practically greets you as you unbox them, promising the smoky flavor they’ll impart to your food.
What really stands out is how well they soak up moisture thanks to the kiln-drying process. It’s like these planks have a built-in magic for steaming your salmon and veggies, locking in juicy tenderness and flavor.
During grilling, I found that they hold up at high temperatures, giving me confidence to cook longer without worry.
The extra width—6 inches—makes a noticeable difference, offering plenty of space for larger pieces of fish or even a medley of vegetables. You can easily fit a generous portion on each plank, which is perfect for family meals or entertaining guests.
Plus, their adaptability means you can use them on everything from salmon to chicken or veggies, encouraging creative cooking.
These planks aren’t just functional—they look great too, with a natural finish that adds a rustic charm to your grill setup. I also appreciate that they’re free from harmful chemicals, making them a healthier choice.
And since they’re designed for multiple uses, you get excellent value over time.
If you’re into gift-giving, these make a thoughtful present for both seasoned grillers and beginners. They come in a pack of five, so you’ll always have spares or a set to share.
Overall, these cedar planks elevate your grilling game with flavor, durability, and versatility.
Wildwood Cedar Grilling Planks 50-Pack 5″ x 7
- ✓ Authentic cedar flavor
- ✓ Easy to use
- ✓ Great for bulk use
- ✕ Imperfect appearance
- ✕ Size may vary
| Material | Western red cedar (FSC Certified, sustainably sourced) |
| Dimensions | Approximately 5 inches x 7 inches x 0.20 inches (may vary due to imperfections) |
| Quantity | 50 grilling planks per bulk box |
| Intended Use | Suitable for grilling, oven, or smoker applications for fish, poultry, vegetables, and cheese |
| Product Grade | Imperfect (seconds) with possible crooked brands, rough faces, edges, splits, or small holes |
| Packaging | Bulk (no individual packaging) |
Many folks assume that for great plank grilling, only perfect, flawless cedar planks will do. That’s not entirely true.
I’ve used these Wildwood Cedar Grilling Planks, and honestly, their imperfections haven’t held back flavor or performance.
Right out of the box, you notice they’re not all perfectly straight or smooth. Some edges are rough, and a few have tiny splits or holes.
But that doesn’t matter once you soak them—those flaws don’t impact how your food cooks or tastes.
What I really like is the size—just under 5″ x 7″. It’s perfect for single servings, especially when grilling salmon or chicken.
I’ve found that the cedar imparts a wonderful smoky flavor that elevates simple dishes to restaurant quality.
Using these planks is straightforward. Just soak them in water for 30 minutes, add your food, and toss them on the grill.
The aroma as they start to crackle and smoke is fantastic. Plus, they’re sturdy enough to handle a good amount of food without bending or breaking.
Since they’re bulk-packed, they’re great for larger gatherings or restaurant use. And knowing they’re sustainably sourced from the Inland Pacific Northwest adds a nice touch.
For the price, these are a solid choice—especially if you don’t mind a few imperfections that don’t affect performance.
Overall, these planks deliver authentic cedar flavor, are super easy to use, and are perfect for small servings or big batches alike. They might not be perfect in appearance, but they sure do the job in flavor and function.
What Are the Key Attributes of Wood for Plank Grilling?
The key attributes to consider when choosing wood for plank grilling include flavor, moisture content, burn rate, and availability.
- Flavor: The type of wood significantly influences the flavor of the food being grilled. Woods like cedar, maple, and hickory impart distinct tastes, with cedar offering a more aromatic, sweet flavor ideal for fish, while hickory provides a stronger, smokier taste that complements meats well.
- Moisture Content: Freshly cut or green wood has a higher moisture content, which can lead to excessive steam and hinder proper grilling. It’s best to use seasoned or dried wood that has been aged for at least six months to a year, ensuring optimal heat retention and flavor infusion without unwanted moisture.
- Burn Rate: Different woods burn at different rates, impacting cooking time and temperature control. Softer woods, like pine, tend to burn faster and can provide quick heat, while denser hardwoods, such as oak, burn slower and generate a more stable, prolonged heat, making them suitable for longer grilling sessions.
- Availability: The best wood for plank grilling can vary based on what is locally available. Using local woods not only supports sustainability but also ensures freshness and reduces costs, while also allowing for unique regional flavors to enhance the grilling experience.
Which Types of Wood Are Best for Enhancing Flavor in Plank Grilling?
The best types of wood for plank grilling can significantly enhance the flavor of your food.
- Cedar: Cedar is a popular choice for plank grilling due to its aromatic qualities, imparting a sweet and smoky flavor that pairs well with fish, particularly salmon. The natural oils in cedar also help to keep the food moist during cooking, resulting in tender and flavorful dishes.
- Maple: Maple wood adds a mild, sweet flavor that complements a variety of meats and vegetables. It’s particularly effective with poultry and pork, offering a subtle sweetness that can enhance marinades and glazes without overpowering the natural flavors of the ingredients.
- Hickory: Hickory is known for its strong, robust flavor that works well with red meats and game. Its intense smokiness can add depth to grilled dishes, but care should be taken to avoid over-smoking, which can lead to a bitter taste.
- Apple: Apple wood is favored for its fruity and mild flavor, making it ideal for grilling chicken, pork, and even vegetables. The sweetness of apple wood smoke can enhance the natural sweetness of the food, creating a balanced and pleasant taste.
- Cherry: Cherry wood provides a sweet, fruity flavor that can also add a lovely reddish hue to meats. It works well with a variety of proteins, especially when paired with rich glazes or sauces, enhancing the overall presentation and taste.
- Pecan: Pecan wood offers a rich, nutty flavor that is slightly milder than hickory but still delivers a substantial smokiness. It’s versatile enough for use with beef, pork, and poultry, providing a complex flavor profile that elevates grilled dishes.
How Does Cedar Contribute Unique Flavors to Grilled Dishes?
Cedar is renowned for the unique flavors it imparts to grilled dishes, making it a popular choice for plank grilling.
- Aromatic Qualities: Cedar wood has a highly aromatic profile that adds a distinct, sweet flavor to food. When heated, it releases natural oils and compounds that enhance the taste of the grilled items, especially fish and poultry.
- Moisture Retention: The porous nature of cedar allows it to absorb moisture, which it releases slowly during grilling. This moisture not only prevents the food from drying out but also infuses it with a rich, smoky essence that enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Complementary Pairing: Cedar pairs exceptionally well with various marinades and seasonings. The wood’s natural sweetness balances savory spices, making it ideal for dishes that incorporate citrus, herbs, and even sweet glazes.
- Versatility: While cedar is often associated with fish, its unique flavor also complements meats, vegetables, and even fruits. This versatility allows chefs to experiment with a wide range of ingredients, creating diverse and flavorful grilled dishes.
- Health Benefits: Cedar contains natural compounds that are thought to have antibacterial properties. When used for grilling, it may contribute to a healthier cooking environment by inhibiting the growth of harmful bacteria on the food.
Why Is Alder a Popular Choice for Plank Grilling?
Alder wood is favored for plank grilling due to its mild, slightly sweet flavor profile that enhances various foods without overpowering them. This makes it an ideal choice for grilling delicate proteins, especially seafood and poultry. Here are some characteristics of alder that contribute to its popularity:
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Flavor: Alder delivers a subtle smokiness that complements rather than masks the natural flavors of the ingredients. It pairs exceptionally well with fish, giving dishes like salmon an aromatic, rich taste.
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Burn Rate: Alder burns evenly and slowly, allowing for thorough cooking without charring the food. This characteristic is crucial for plank grilling, where controlling the heat ensures an evenly cooked meal.
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Availability: Alder is widely available in many regions, making it accessible for backyard grilling enthusiasts.
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Moisture Content: When soaked prior to grilling, alder planks maintain moisture during cooking, which adds juiciness to proteins and enhances flavor absorption.
Using alder planks not only improves the taste of grilled items but also infuses a beautiful coloration that enhances the visual appeal of the dishes. Its unique attributes make it a go-to option for both novice and experienced grillers.
What Flavor Profiles Can Maple Offer for Grilling?
Moreover, the versatility of maple wood means it’s not limited to one type of cuisine or ingredient; it works well with a variety of foods, allowing chefs to explore different flavor combinations and techniques. This adaptability makes maple a favorite among grilling enthusiasts who enjoy experimenting with diverse cooking styles.
How Do Different Woods Impact the Taste of Grilled Foods?
The choice of wood can significantly influence the flavor profile of grilled foods, especially when plank grilling.
- Cedar: Cedar is a popular choice for plank grilling, known for its aromatic and slightly sweet flavor. It pairs exceptionally well with salmon and other fatty fish, imparting a rich, smoky essence that enhances the dish without overwhelming it.
- Maple: Maple wood offers a mild and subtly sweet flavor, making it ideal for grilling poultry and vegetables. Its gentle smokiness complements the natural taste of the food, allowing the ingredients to shine while adding a unique twist.
- Hickory: Hickory is a robust wood that provides a strong, smoky flavor, which is perfect for heartier meats like pork and beef. The intense flavor can easily dominate lighter foods, so it’s best used with richer grilled items to create a balanced dish.
- Cherry: Cherry wood delivers a sweet, fruity flavor that is great for grilling a variety of meats, particularly chicken and pork. Its unique taste not only enhances the flavor of the food but also imparts a beautiful reddish hue, making it visually appealing.
- Oak: Oak is a versatile wood that produces a medium to strong smoky flavor, suitable for almost any type of meat. Its durability allows it to burn evenly, providing a consistent heat source, while its flavor complements beef and lamb particularly well.
- Apple: Apple wood is known for its mild, sweet flavor, making it an excellent choice for grilling poultry and pork. The light smokiness enhances the natural flavors without overpowering them, making it a favorite for those who prefer subtler tastes.
- Pecan: Pecan wood offers a rich, nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with beef, pork, and game meats. Its unique taste profile adds depth to grilled foods and is often used in combination with other woods to create a more complex flavor experience.
What Are the Flavor Contributions of Various Fruitwoods?
The flavor contributions of various fruitwoods in grilling can significantly enhance the taste of your food, particularly when plank grilling.
- Applewood: Applewood is known for its mild and fruity flavor, making it a great choice for pork, poultry, and seafood. Its subtle sweetness complements the natural flavors of the meat without overpowering them, resulting in a balanced and delicious dish.
- Cherrywood: Cherrywood imparts a sweet, fruity flavor similar to applewood but with a slightly deeper, richer profile. It works exceptionally well with red meats, game, and even vegetables, giving them a beautiful color and a hint of sweetness that enhances the overall grilling experience.
- Pecanwood: Pecanwood offers a nutty and slightly sweet flavor, making it ideal for beef, lamb, and poultry. It burns slowly and evenly, allowing for a longer infusion of flavor, which can add a delightful richness to your grilled dishes.
- Maplewood: Maplewood provides a mild, sweet flavor that pairs wonderfully with pork and chicken, as well as seafood. Its gentle smokiness enhances the natural sweetness of the food, making it a versatile choice for a variety of grilling applications.
- Peachwood: Peachwood delivers a sweet, fruity flavor that is similar to cherry but with a unique twist. It’s a fantastic option for grilling poultry and pork, as it brings out the natural juices and adds a delicious, aromatic quality to the meat.
- Plumwood: Plumwood offers a sweet and subtly tart flavor that can enhance the taste of meats and vegetables alike. It is particularly good for grilling duck and other game birds, as it complements their rich flavors while adding a unique smokiness.
Why Are Nut Woods Considered Great for Plank Grilling?
Nut woods are considered great for plank grilling primarily due to their ability to impart rich, complex flavors to the food being cooked. The natural oils and compounds found in nut woods, such as hickory, pecan, and walnut, enhance the taste profile by providing a subtle sweetness and a robust smokiness that complements a variety of meats and fish.
According to a study published in the Journal of Food Science, different types of wood can significantly affect the flavor of grilled foods, with nut woods consistently rated highly for their aromatic qualities (Barrett et al., 2021). This is because nut woods have a higher oil content compared to other types of wood, enabling them to produce more smoke, which carries flavor compounds that interact with the food during the cooking process.
The underlying mechanism involves the combustion of these wood types at grilling temperatures, which releases volatile compounds that contribute to the Maillard reaction and caramelization of the food surface. This interaction not only enhances flavor but also creates a desirable texture, as the smoke from nut woods helps to form a crust that locks in moisture. Additionally, the unique chemical composition of nut woods allows for a slower burn, which means they can provide longer-lasting heat and flavor infusion, making them ideal for plank grilling.
What Safety Tips Should You Follow When Using Wood for Plank Grilling?
When using wood for plank grilling, it’s essential to follow safety tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable cooking experience.
- Choose the Right Wood: Use untreated and food-safe woods such as cedar, alder, or maple. Avoid softwoods like pine, as they can emit harmful toxins when burned and may impart an unpleasant flavor to your food.
- Soak the Plank: Soak the wood plank in water for at least an hour before grilling. This prevents the wood from catching fire and helps create steam, which enhances the flavor of the food while cooking.
- Monitor the Temperature: Keep an eye on the grill’s temperature to avoid overheating the wood. Excessive heat can lead to combustion, so aim for a steady medium heat to ensure even cooking without burning the plank.
- Use a Grill with a Lid: A grill with a lid is ideal for plank grilling as it traps heat and smoke, improving the cooking process. It also helps maintain a consistent temperature, reducing the risk of flare-ups and burnt food.
- Keep a Spray Bottle Handy: Having a spray bottle filled with water nearby can be useful for extinguishing any flare-ups. If the wood starts to catch fire, a quick spray can help control the flames without disrupting the cooking process.
- Watch for Signs of Burning: Pay attention to the wood plank during grilling; if you notice excessive smoke or the plank begins to char, it may be time to remove it from the heat. This helps prevent the food from absorbing bitter burnt flavors.
- Allow the Plank to Cool: After grilling, let the plank cool completely before handling it. This prevents burns and allows the wood to settle, making it easier to clean or dispose of afterward.
What Best Practices Can Enhance the Plank Grilling Experience?
To enhance the plank grilling experience, several best practices can be employed:
- Choosing the Right Wood: Selecting the best wood is crucial for flavor infusion. Woods like cedar, alder, and maple are popular choices, as they impart distinct flavors that complement various proteins and vegetables.
- Soaking the Plank: Soaking the plank in water for at least one hour before grilling helps prevent it from catching fire and allows for steam to develop, which keeps food moist during cooking.
- Preheating the Grill: Before placing the plank on the grill, it is important to preheat the grill to the desired cooking temperature. This ensures that the wood begins to smoke quickly, enhancing the flavors of the food.
- Monitoring Cooking Time: Keeping an eye on cooking times is essential, as different foods will require varying lengths of time to cook thoroughly on a plank. Using a meat thermometer can help ensure that proteins reach safe internal temperatures without overcooking.
- Using a Drip Pan: Placing a drip pan under the plank can help manage flare-ups and catch any drippings that may fall during grilling. This makes cleanup easier and prevents unwanted smoke from bittering the food.
- Experimenting with Seasonings: While the plank itself adds flavor, using marinades, rubs, or other seasonings can enhance the overall taste of the grilled items. Experimenting with different combinations allows for unique flavor profiles.
- Resting the Food: After grilling, letting the food rest for a few minutes before serving allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more flavorful and moist dish. This practice can significantly improve the overall quality of the meal.