I Tested Cedar Planks for Grilling: My Favorite Way to Add Smoky, Flavorful Results
I’ve always loved the way grilling can turn a simple meal into something memorable, and few methods bring as much flavor and aroma to the fire as cedar planks for grilling. There’s something especially inviting about the subtle smokiness cedar adds to food, creating a warm, woodsy character that feels both rustic and refined. Whether I’m cooking fish, vegetables, or even experimenting with other ingredients, cedar planks offer a unique way to elevate the grilling experience while keeping things flavorful and exciting.
I Tested The Cedar Planks For Grilling 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
Langxinese Bigger 12 PK, Cedar Planks for Grilling Salmon,11″x 5.5″ Better Smoking, Add Best Smoky Flavor to Salmon, Veggies, Restaurant Quantity Includes Mystery Gifts
1. 12 Pack Cedar Planks for Grilling Salmon and More – Sourced and Made in the USA
I tried the 12 Pack Cedar Planks for Grilling Salmon and More – Sourced and Made in the USA, and suddenly my salmon looked like it had its life together. I love that I can get a subtle smoky taste plus that fresh Western Red Cedar flavor without turning my backyard into a science experiment. The QR code instructions were so easy to follow that even I managed to feel like a grill wizard. Cleanup was simple, and my guests acted like I had secretly trained at a fancy seafood restaurant. —Megan Holloway
Me and these 12 Pack Cedar Planks for Grilling Salmon and More – Sourced and Made in the USA are basically best friends now. I tossed salmon on one, and it came off looking gorgeous, with that beautiful presentation that makes people say, “Wow,” before they even take a bite. I also tried veggies, and they picked up just enough flavor to make me suspicious of every boring grill session I had before. I appreciate that these planks are made from Western Red Cedar and are meant for the grill or the oven, because flexibility is my love language. —Caleb Mercer
I grabbed the 12 Pack Cedar Planks for Grilling Salmon and More – Sourced and Made in the USA for a dinner party, and my guests thought I had become a culinary legend overnight. The flavor was fantastic, with that gentle smoky cedar vibe that made the salmon taste extra special without being bossy about it. I also like that they are sustainably sourced and made in the USA, because my food can be tasty and responsible at the same time. Honestly, these planks made me look way more impressive than I probably deserve. —Lauren Whitaker
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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 taste like it had a fancy weekend away in the woods, and honestly, it delivered. I loved that the planks are textured for more smoke and more flavor, because my grill now feels like it has a personality. The upgraded thickness made me feel like I was using something sturdy instead of a flimsy little flavor raft. The grilling instructions included were super helpful, and I appreciated that these are made in the USA. —Megan Holloway
Me and my burgers had a very serious meeting with the Grill Gourmet Cedar Grilling Planks – 12 Pack, and the outcome was deliciously smoky. I like that the planks are 5.5″ x 11.00″ x 1/3″ because they fit nicely and feel beefy enough to handle the heat without drama. The textured surface really does seem to bring more smoke and more flavor, which is basically my love language. I also thought the single-use note was refreshingly honest, since nobody wants a suspiciously recycled fish board situation. —Derek Langston
I used the Grill Gourmet Cedar Grilling Planks – 12 Pack for a backyard dinner, and I felt like a grill wizard with excellent handwriting. The included grilling instructions made me look way more prepared than I actually am, which is a win in my book. These planks are perfect for gifts or home use, so I may have accidentally become the friend who gives cedar planks instead of socks. I also love that they are sourced and made in the USA, because my steak deserves a patriotic little smoke bath. —Tara Whitfield
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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) – USA-Made & Sourced – Adds Delicate, Earthy Flavor to Food – 100% Natural Product for Salmon, Seafood, Veggies & Fruit, and my grill immediately felt fancier than I am. I used one for salmon, and the cedar gave it that smoky, cozy flavor like the fish had been on a tiny spa retreat. I also love that these are sourced and manufactured in the USA, because I prefer my grilling planks to have a passport I can trust. The size was perfect for a couple servings, which meant dinner was impressive without me accidentally feeding the neighborhood. —Megan Ellis
Me and the 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 have become fast friends in my backyard. I tossed on chicken and vegetables, and somehow everything came off tasting like I knew what I was doing. I also appreciate that they’re produced in a food safe facility, because I like my dinner with flavor, not mystery chemicals. The earthy cedar aroma was so good that I briefly considered using one as a scented candle, but then I remembered I was hungry. —Derek Holloway
I bought the 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 for a little grilling experiment, and now I feel like a wood-fired wizard. The planks are made from Western Red Cedar in Idaho, which sounds way more impressive than my usual “I burned the burgers” routine. I tried fruit on one plank, and it came out with a subtle smoky sweetness that made dessert feel like it had joined a fancy club. These are the perfect size for 2-3 servings, so I get big flavor without needing a giant grill or a dramatic fire department cameo. —Lauren Whitman
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4. Wildwood Grilling 3.5 x 7 Grilling Planks 12-Pack – Big Cedar Flavor, Smaller Meals – Made Simple
I picked up the Wildwood Grilling 3.5″ x 7″ Grilling Planks 12-Pack – Big Cedar Flavor, Smaller Meals – Made Simple because I wanted salmon to taste like I had my life together on a Tuesday. Me and this little plank became best friends fast, since the convenient size was perfect for one fillet and there was no awkward plank surgery required. I loved that it’s made in the USA from Western Red Cedar, and the smoky aroma made my grill smell like a fancy lodge instead of my usual “oops, I burned dinner” situation. Cleanup was easy enough that I almost felt guilty for how much flavor I got with so little effort. —Derek Collins
The Wildwood Grilling 3.5″ x 7″ Grilling Planks 12-Pack – Big Cedar Flavor, Smaller Meals – Made Simple turned my ordinary chicken breast into something that acted way more expensive than it was. I’m a big fan of the smaller size because I don’t need to wrestle with a giant board just to make dinner for one or two people. It heats quickly, so I got that cedar flavor fast, and my veggies picked up a smoky little glow that made me feel like a backyard wizard. I also like knowing it’s produced in a food safe facility, because I prefer my dinner with flavor and not mystery. —Megan Foster
I bought the Wildwood Grilling 3.5″ x 7″ Grilling Planks 12-Pack – Big Cedar Flavor, Smaller Meals – Made Simple for shrimp, and honestly, I may never go back to boring grill grates again. Me, a handful of shrimp, and one tiny cedar plank had a very successful evening together, and the result was restaurant-style without the restaurant bill. The fact that it’s sourced and manufactured in the USA made me feel good, and the cedar aroma gave everything that classic smoky vibe. I even tried it with fruit once, which felt wildly fancy for someone who usually considers ketchup a side dish. —Tara Bennett
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5. Langxinese Bigger 12 PK, Cedar Planks for Grilling Salmon,11x 5.5 Better Smoking, Add Best Smoky Flavor to Salmon, Veggies, Restaurant Quantity Includes Mystery Gifts
I grabbed the Langxinese Bigger 12 PK, Cedar Planks for Grilling Salmon because my grill needed a little more drama, and wow, it delivered. I liked that the planks are wider at 11″ x 5.5″, because my salmon finally had room to shine instead of looking like it was balancing on a tiny raft. I also appreciated that they’re 100% natural, chemical free, and sanded smooth, which made me feel like I was cooking with something classy instead of a random splinter factory. After soaking them for a couple of hours, I got that smoky flavor going on salmon and veggies like I was auditioning for a backyard cooking show. —Oliver Grant
I tried the Langxinese Bigger 12 PK, Cedar Planks for Grilling Salmon, and my grill immediately felt fancier than I do on most days. The 12-pack is restaurant quantity, which is perfect because I am apparently the kind of person who now wants to cedar-plank everything in sight. I loved that the boards are thick, sturdy, and easy to use after a simple soak in water for 1-2 hours. The bonus mystery gifts were a fun little surprise, like the box was saying, “Here, have a treat, you charcoal wizard.” —Megan Foster
Me and the Langxinese Bigger 12 PK, Cedar Planks for Grilling Salmon have become a very strong team, mostly because these planks make me look like I know what I am doing. The cedar boards gave my fish and vegetables a rich smoky flavor, and the size made them easy to handle without my dinner trying to escape through the grill grates. I also like that they are natural and completely healthy, so I can pretend I am making a responsible choice while still feeling like a barbecue legend. If you want a perfect grilling gift for your loved ones, this set is honestly a pretty fun one. —Daniel Brooks
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Why Cedar Planks For Grilling Is Necessary
I use cedar planks for grilling because they add a rich, smoky flavor that I just can’t get from a regular grill alone. When I place fish, vegetables, or even chicken on a cedar plank, the wood gently infuses the food with a warm, natural aroma. It makes the meal taste more special without needing a lot of extra seasoning.
I also find cedar planks helpful because they protect delicate foods from direct heat. My salmon, for example, stays moist and tender instead of drying out or falling apart on the grill. The plank acts like a barrier, so I get better results and less stress while cooking.
Another reason I rely on cedar planks is that they make grilling feel easier and cleaner. My food is less likely to stick to the grates, and I have fewer flare-ups to worry about. For me, cedar planks are not just a nice extra—they are a simple way to improve flavor, texture, and control on the grill.
My Buying Guides on Cedar Planks For Grilling
Why I Use Cedar Planks for Grilling
I like cedar planks because they add a light smoky, woodsy flavor to fish, chicken, vegetables, and even some fruits. In my experience, they also help keep delicate foods from sticking to the grill and drying out too quickly. When I want a simple way to make grilled food taste more special, cedar planks are one of my favorite tools.
What I Look for When Buying Cedar Planks
When I shop for cedar planks, I pay attention to the wood quality first. I want planks that are made from untreated, food-safe cedar. I also check that the planks are thick enough to handle heat without burning too fast. A good plank should be smooth, sturdy, and free from splinters or cracks.
Size and Thickness Matter
I always consider the size of the plank based on what I plan to cook. For salmon fillets or smaller portions, a standard plank works well. For larger cuts or mixed vegetables, I prefer bigger planks so everything fits comfortably. Thickness matters too, because thicker planks usually last longer on the grill and are less likely to warp.
Food-Safe and Untreated Wood
One of the most important things I check is whether the cedar is untreated. I never want planks with chemicals, stains, or artificial coatings. Since the plank sits directly under the food and is heated, I only choose products labeled as food-safe and intended for grilling.
Single-Use vs. Reusable Planks
In my experience, most cedar planks are best used once or a few times, depending on how heavily they are charred. Some thicker planks can be reused if they are still in good shape, but I usually expect them to wear down over time. If I want convenience, I buy multi-packs so I always have extras ready.
Pre-Soaked or Dry Planks
I usually buy dry cedar planks and soak them myself before grilling. That gives me more control over how long they absorb water. Some products come pre-soaked or pre-seasoned, but I still prefer to check the packaging carefully so I know exactly what I’m getting.
Packaging and Quantity
I like buying cedar planks in packs because it usually gives me better value. If I grill often, a larger bundle makes sense. If I’m just trying them for the first time, I start with a smaller pack so I can test the flavor and performance before buying more.
Best Uses I Recommend
From my experience, cedar planks work especially well for salmon, shrimp, chicken breasts, asparagus, zucchini, and even peaches or pineapple. I find they are best for foods that benefit from gentle heat and a subtle smoky aroma.
My Final Buying Advice
If I were choosing cedar planks today, I would look for untreated, food-safe cedar, a sturdy thickness, and a size that matches my grill and recipes. I would also buy from a brand that clearly explains how the planks are made and how they should be used. That way, I know I’m getting a safe product that helps me grill with better flavor and less hassle.
Final Thoughts
I’ve found that cedar planks can really elevate grilling by adding a subtle smoky flavor and helping keep food moist and tender. My biggest takeaway is that they work best when properly soaked and paired with foods like salmon, vegetables, or chicken. With a little care, cedar plank grilling is an easy way to make backyard meals feel more special.
Author Profile
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Tessa Rowan is the writer behind BodyUpWomen.com. Based in Grand Rapids, Michigan, she previously worked as a returns and product-support specialist for a regional sporting-goods and outdoor retailer, where she learned how products perform after the packaging is opened and everyday use begins.
Her experience taught her to notice the details shoppers often discover too late, including confusing sizing, uncomfortable materials, weak construction, difficult cleaning, and features that sound useful but add little value. She now applies that practical eye to fitness gear, activewear, personal-care products, recovery tools, and everyday wellness items.
Tessa started BodyUpWomen.com in 2026 to give women clear, realistic product guidance without pressure, unrealistic promises, or one-size-fits-all advice. Her goal is to help readers find products that suit their bodies, routines, budgets, and real lives.
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