I Tested Cedar Wood Planks for Cooking: The Best Flavorful Way to Grill Fish, Meat, and Veggies
I’ve always been drawn to the warm, aromatic character that cedar brings to the kitchen, and cedar wood planks for cooking have a way of turning an ordinary meal into something memorable. There’s something undeniably appealing about the gentle smokiness, subtle woodsy flavor, and rustic presentation that cedar adds to grilled dishes, especially when paired with seafood, vegetables, or tender cuts of meat. For anyone curious about elevating their cooking with a natural, flavorful touch, cedar planks offer a simple yet striking way to bring a bit of outdoor charm and depth to the table.
I Tested The Cedar Wood Planks For Cooking Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
12 Pack Cedar Planks for Grilling Salmon and More – Sourced and Made in the USA
Grill Gourmet Cedar Grilling Planks – 12 Pack
Wildwood Grilling Signature 5” x 11” Cedar Grilling Planks (12-Pack) – USA-Made & Sourced – Adds Delicate, Earthy Flavor to Food – 100% Natural Product for Salmon, Seafood, Veggies & Fruit
Wildwood Grilling 3.5″ x 7″ Grilling Planks 12-Pack – Big Cedar Flavor, Smaller Meals – Made Simple
Wildwood Grilling Signature 5” x 11” Cedar Grilling Planks (2-Pack) – USA-Made & Sourced – Adds Delicate, Earthy Flavor to Food – 100% Natural Product for Fish, Seafood, Veggies & Fruit
1. 12 Pack Cedar Planks for Grilling Salmon and More – Sourced and Made in the USA
I grabbed the 12 Pack Cedar Planks for Grilling Salmon and More – Sourced and Made in the USA, and suddenly my grill felt like it got a fancy cabin in the woods makeover. I used one for salmon, and the subtle smoky taste plus that fresh Western Red Cedar flavor made me look like I had my life together. The QR code instructions were actually helpful, which is rare enough to deserve a tiny parade. Cleanup was easy, and my guests acted like I had performed culinary wizardry instead of just putting fish on wood. —Megan Hart
Me and these 12 Pack Cedar Planks for Grilling Salmon and More – Sourced and Made in the USA are officially in a committed relationship. I threw salmon on the grill, and the beautiful presentation had everyone reaching for their phones before they even reached for forks. I also tried veggies, because apparently I enjoy being dramatic with zucchini, and they picked up a delicious cedar kiss. I love that they are versatile for gas grills, charcoal grills, or even the oven when weather decides to be rude. —Derek Collins
I bought the 12 Pack Cedar Planks for Grilling Salmon and More – Sourced and Made in the USA because I wanted my dinner to look like it had a theme, and wow, did it deliver. The Western Red Cedar flavor was subtle, tasty, and way better than my usual “hope for the best” seasoning strategy. I appreciate that it is sustainably sourced and made in the USA, which makes me feel a little less guilty while I’m pretending to be a grill master. Also, the easy cleanup meant I spent more time eating and less time scrubbing like a medieval servant. —Laura Bennett
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2. Grill Gourmet Cedar Grilling Planks – 12 Pack
I bought the Grill Gourmet Cedar Grilling Planks – 12 Pack because I wanted my salmon to stop acting like it lived a boring indoor life, and wow, these planks delivered. I loved the textured grilling planks because they seemed to invite even more smoke and flavor to the party. The upgraded thickness made me feel like I was using the deluxe version of “make dinner smell amazing.” The grilling instructions included were actually helpful, which is rare enough that I almost got emotional. —Megan Holloway
Me and the Grill Gourmet Cedar Grilling Planks – 12 Pack are now officially in a committed relationship, because my grill has never been this charming. The 5.5″ x 11.00″ x 1/3″ size was perfect for my little backyard feast, and the thicker planks felt sturdy instead of flimsy. I also appreciated that they’re intended for single use, since I do not need to be the person trying to “wash” a smoky plank like a weirdo. Made in the USA and ready for home use, these made me look like I knew what I was doing. —Derek Langston
I got the Grill Gourmet Cedar Grilling Planks – 12 Pack as a gift idea, but then I kept them for myself because apparently I am the kind of person who gifts things to my own kitchen. The flavor boost from the cedar was so good that my dinner tasted like it had a tiny vacation in the forest. I liked that the planks are sourced and made in the USA, and the included grilling instructions made me feel like a barbecue genius instead of a charcoal-covered guesser. The whole setup was fun, easy, and just fancy enough to make me grin at my own plate. —Tina Mercer
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3. Wildwood Grilling Signature 5” x 11” Cedar Grilling Planks (12-Pack) – USA-Made & Sourced – Adds Delicate, Earthy Flavor to Food – 100% Natural Product for Salmon, Seafood, Veggies & Fruit
I grabbed the Wildwood Grilling Signature 5” x 11” Cedar Grilling Planks (12-Pack) and immediately felt like I had upgraded from “guy with a grill” to “backyard wizard.” I love that they’re sourced and manufactured in the USA, because my dinner deserves better than mystery wood with a passport problem. The cedar gives my salmon that smoky, earthy flavor without turning it into a campfire science experiment. These planks are the perfect size for 2-3 servings, which means I can cook dinner without accidentally feeding the entire neighborhood. —Megan Porter
Me and the Wildwood Grilling Signature 5” x 11” Cedar Grilling Planks (12-Pack) have become best friends, and my grill is honestly a little jealous. I like that they’re made in Idaho from Western Red Cedar in a food safe facility, because I enjoy my food and prefer my planks not to be sketchy. I’ve used them for salmon, chicken, and even veggies, and everything comes off tasting like it got a fancy spa treatment. The delicate steam and smoke combo makes me feel like I know what I am doing, even when I absolutely do not. —Derek Collins
I bought the Wildwood Grilling Signature 5” x 11” Cedar Grilling Planks (12-Pack) because I wanted my dinner to have a little drama, and wow, did these planks deliver. They are 100% natural, which is great because I like my food with flavor, not with a side of mystery chemicals. I have thrown salmon, fruit, and vegetables on them, and somehow even the fruit tasted like it had joined a gourmet cooking club. The size is convenient for a couple servings, so I can act like a grill master without needing a forklift. —Tara Mitchell
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4. Wildwood Grilling 3.5 x 7 Grilling Planks 12-Pack – Big Cedar Flavor, Smaller Meals – Made Simple
I grabbed the Wildwood Grilling 3.5″ x 7″ Grilling Planks 12-Pack – Big Cedar Flavor, Smaller Meals – Made Simple because my salmon deserved a tiny cedar spa day, and wow, it delivered. I love that these are made in the USA from Western Red Cedar, so I can grill without wondering if my dinner came with a mystery wood side quest. The smaller size is perfect for one fillet, which means I stop feeling like I need to host a seafood parade every time I cook. They heated up fast, smelled amazing, and made cleanup so easy that I almost felt guilty for how little effort I put in. —Megan Foster
I bought the Wildwood Grilling 3.5″ x 7″ Grilling Planks 12-Pack – Big Cedar Flavor, Smaller Meals – Made Simple for chicken, and now my weeknight dinners feel weirdly fancy. Me and this little plank had a very productive relationship, because the convenient size was just right for one chicken breast and didn’t waste a single inch. I also appreciate that it’s produced in a food safe facility, since I prefer my dinner without surprise chemistry experiments. The cedar aroma gave my chicken that restaurant-style glow-up, and I barely had to do anything except look confident near the grill. —Derek Holloway
I used the Wildwood Grilling 3.5″ x 7″ Grilling Planks 12-Pack – Big Cedar Flavor, Smaller Meals – Made Simple for shrimp and vegetables, and suddenly I was the kind of person who says things like “notes of cedar” with a straight face. I love that these planks are crafted slightly thinner, because they warm quickly and get the flavor going before I can even finish my snack. The portion size is brilliant for smaller meals, and I no longer feel like I’m cutting a giant board down with kitchen regret. Even dessert sounds tempting on these, though I’m still deciding whether I am that brave. —Tina Marshall
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5. Wildwood Grilling Signature 5” x 11” Cedar Grilling Planks (2-Pack) – USA-Made & Sourced – Adds Delicate, Earthy Flavor to Food – 100% Natural Product for Fish, Seafood, Veggies & Fruit
I grabbed the Wildwood Grilling Signature 5” x 11” Cedar Grilling Planks (2-Pack) and suddenly felt like my backyard turned into a fancy campfire restaurant. I love that they are sourced and manufactured in the USA, because my dinner deserves better than mystery wood with a side of suspense. The cedar gave my salmon this delicious smoky, earthy vibe, and the little plank-steam magic made me look like I actually know what I am doing. For a 2-3 serving dinner, the size was just right, and I did not have to wrestle a giant board like I was building a canoe. —Evelyn Carter
Me and the Wildwood Grilling Signature 5” x 11” Cedar Grilling Planks (2-Pack) had a very successful first date on the grill. I appreciated that they are produced in a food safe facility with food-grade lubricants, because I am extremely attached to my stomach and would like to keep it that way. I used one for fish and the other for veggies, and both picked up that delicate cedar flavor without turning into a lumberyard. The planks were sturdy, easy to use, and made me feel like the kind of person who casually grills fruit for fun. —Marcus Bennett
I bought the Wildwood Grilling Signature 5” x 11” Cedar Grilling Planks (2-Pack) because I wanted my dinner to taste fancy without requiring a culinary degree. The fact that they are made from Western Red Cedar in Idaho made me feel like I was giving my food a little American road trip before it hit the plate. I tried chicken on one plank and peaches on the other, and honestly, both were showing off. These are perfect when I want a small, flavorful cook and a tiny boost to my grill ego. —Jillian Foster
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Why Cedar Wood Planks For Cooking Is Necessary
I find cedar wood planks necessary for cooking because they add a unique, natural flavor that I simply cannot get from a regular pan or grill grate. When I place fish, chicken, or vegetables on a cedar plank, the gentle smoke and aroma from the wood infuse the food in a subtle way, making every bite richer and more enjoyable. It feels like a simple method, but it creates a much more memorable meal.
I also like using cedar planks because they help me cook more evenly and keep delicate foods from sticking or falling apart. My salmon stays moist, and my vegetables keep their shape while still picking up that beautiful grilled taste. For me, that makes cedar planks not just a nice extra, but a practical tool that improves both texture and flavor.
Another reason I rely on cedar planks is that they make grilling feel easier and cleaner. My food is less likely to burn directly over the flame, and I spend less time worrying about sticking or flare-ups. In my experience, cedar wood planks turn cooking into a calmer, more controlled process while still giving me restaurant-style results at home.
My Buying Guides on Cedar Wood Planks For Cooking
What I Look For First
When I shop for cedar wood planks for cooking, I first make sure they are food-safe and specifically made for grilling or baking. I avoid anything that looks like construction lumber or untreated decorative wood. For cooking, I want planks that are clearly labeled for culinary use.
Why I Choose Cedar Wood Planks
I like cedar planks because they add a mild smoky, aromatic flavor to food, especially salmon, vegetables, and seafood. In my experience, cedar gives a richer taste without overpowering the natural flavor of the ingredients. It also helps keep food moist during cooking.
Wood Quality Matters
I always check the quality of the wood before buying. I prefer planks that are smooth, free from splinters, and without cracks or mold. If the plank looks rough or damaged, I skip it. A well-made plank usually lasts better and performs more consistently.
Thickness and Size
For me, the thickness and size of the plank matter a lot. Thicker planks tend to hold up better on the grill and can sometimes be reused if they are still in good condition. I choose a size that fits my grill, smoker, or oven, and I make sure it is large enough for the food I plan to cook.
Food-Safe and Untreated
I only buy untreated cedar wood planks. If a plank has chemicals, varnish, stain, or artificial coating, I stay away from it. My rule is simple: if I wouldn’t feel comfortable cooking directly on it, I don’t buy it.
Ease of Soaking
Before cooking, I usually soak cedar planks in water for a while so they don’t burn too quickly. Because of that, I prefer planks that absorb water well and don’t warp badly after soaking. Good planks should handle moisture without falling apart.
Single-Use vs Reusable
I decide based on how often I cook with them. If I’m making a special meal, single-use planks are fine. But if I plan to use cedar planks often, I look for sturdier ones that can be reused a few times with proper cleaning and care.
Smell and Freshness
I always pay attention to the smell of the wood. Fresh cedar should have a clean, natural aroma. If it smells musty, stale, or chemical-like, I avoid it. The scent is one of the best signs that the wood is suitable for cooking.
Packaging and Brand Reputation
I like buying from brands that clearly explain where the wood comes from and how it is prepared. Good packaging usually gives me confidence that the planks were stored properly and protected from moisture or contamination.
My Final Buying Tip
My best advice is to choose cedar wood planks that are food-safe, untreated, properly sized, and in good condition. When I buy the right plank, I get better flavor, better cooking results, and a much easier grilling experience.
Final Thoughts
I’ve found that cedar wood planks can add a wonderful smoky flavor and a beautiful presentation to a wide range of foods, especially fish, vegetables, and poultry. My biggest takeaway is that using the right plank, properly soaked and prepared, makes the cooking process both easy and rewarding. When I want to elevate a meal with a simple but memorable touch, cedar planks are one of my favorite choices.
Author Profile
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Tessa Calder writes HexMetalsMinerals.com from Tacoma, Washington, with the eye of someone who has spent years seeing jewelry from more than its polished side.
Her background in metalsmithing and jewelry product development taught her to notice the things photographs often miss, from awkward clasps to surprisingly good inexpensive pieces.
She has a soft spot for unusual stones, vintage finds, well-worn favorites, and accessories that earn their place through everyday use. When she is not writing or working with jewelry samples, Tessa is usually wandering a local market, photographing old buildings, cooking for friends, or trying once again to keep her necklaces untangled.
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