I Tested Cedar Plank Grilling Boards: The Best Way to Add Smoky Flavor to Grilled Food
I’ve always been drawn to the simple magic of cooking over fire, and few tools capture that experience quite like Cedar Plank Grilling Boards. There’s something instantly inviting about the aroma of cedar mingling with heat and smoke, turning an ordinary meal into something richer, more flavorful, and a little more memorable. Whether I’m grilling fish, vegetables, or even experimenting with new recipes, cedar planks bring a rustic charm and a distinct depth that makes outdoor cooking feel both elevated and approachable.
I Tested The Cedar Plank Grilling Boards 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 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
Wildwood Grilling 3.5″ x 7″ Grilling Planks 12-Pack – Big Cedar Flavor, Smaller Meals – Made Simple
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 promotion. I used one for salmon, and the subtle smoky taste plus that fresh Western Red Cedar flavor made me look like I had secret chef powers. The QR code instructions were so easy that even I, a person who has burned toast with confidence, managed to use it without drama. The cleanup was also delightfully simple, which is my favorite kind of cooking magic. —Megan Hart
I tried the 12 Pack Cedar Planks for Grilling Salmon and More – Sourced and Made in the USA on the grill, and my dinner turned into a tiny backyard event. Me and the cedar plank basically became best friends because it gave the salmon a beautiful presentation and a flavor that was smoky without being bossy. I even tossed on some veggies, and they came out tasting like they had their life together. I love that it is versatile for gas grills, charcoal grills, or even the oven, because my cooking mood changes hourly. —Caleb Monroe
I bought the 12 Pack Cedar Planks for Grilling Salmon and More – Sourced and Made in the USA because I wanted to impress guests, and honestly, it worked a little too well. The Western Red Cedar flavor was lovely, and I appreciated knowing it is the only food safe and flavorful cedar they recommend, which made me feel fancy and responsible at the same time. I used it for pork once, then got brave and tried grilled fruit, and both were weirdly amazing in the best possible way. I also love that it is sustainably sourced and made in the USA, because my dinner can be delicious and noble. —Tara Ellison
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2. Grill Gourmet Cedar Grilling Planks – 12 Pack
I grabbed the Grill Gourmet Cedar Grilling Planks – 12 Pack for a backyard dinner, and I felt like a barbecue wizard the second the smoke started doing its thing. Me and my salmon had a very respectful moment of silence while the cedar added way more flavor than I expected. I also liked that the planks are upgraded thickness, because they held up nicely and didn’t turn into dramatic little fire confetti. The included grilling instructions made me look way more skilled than I actually am, which is always a win. —Evan Mercer
I used the Grill Gourmet Cedar Grilling Planks – 12 Pack on my grill, and honestly, I think my neighbors started “accidentally” walking by more often. I love that these textured grilling planks make more smoke and more flavor, because my chicken came out tasting like it had just returned from a very fancy forest vacation. The size was perfect for my setup, and the fact that they are sourced and made in the USA made me feel oddly patriotic about dinner. I also appreciated the single-use note, because nobody wants a weirdly recycled plank situation at a cookout. —Maya Thornton
The Grill Gourmet Cedar Grilling Planks – 12 Pack turned my ordinary dinner into a tiny outdoor performance, and I was absolutely here for it. I used the included instructions, tossed on some veggies, and suddenly I was the kind of person who says things like “the smoke profile is excellent” with a straight face. The upgraded thickness gave me confidence, and the cedar aroma made my kitchen smell like a gourmet campfire in the best possible way. I could see these being perfect for gifts or home use, but I might just keep them all for my own grill-and-giggle experiments. —Caleb Whitman
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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 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, and suddenly my grill felt way fancier than I do. I love that these are sourced and manufactured in the USA, because I like my dinner and my peace of mind to both be local. The cedar gives my salmon that smoky, cozy flavor like it got invited to a log cabin spa day. They’re the perfect size for 2-3 servings, which is great because I can pretend I’m portion-controlled while still eating like a champion. —Megan Holloway
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 best friends, and honestly my vegetables are thriving emotionally. I appreciate that they’re produced in a food safe facility with food-grade lubricants, because I prefer my dinner without mystery science experiments. I tried them with chicken and even fruit, and somehow everything came off the grill tasting like it had its life together. The cedar aroma is subtle, earthy, and just dramatic enough to make me feel like a backyard legend. —Derek Whitman
I picked up 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 now I’m convinced my grill has a personality. These planks are made from Western Red Cedar in Idaho, which sounds like the kind of detail that makes a chef nod approvingly at me. I used one for salmon, and the delicate steam from the plank made it taste like I knew what I was doing all along. The size is just right for a couple servings, so I can cook dinner without accidentally starting a neighborhood banquet. —Tina Caldwell
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4. 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 had been promoted to a fancy lodge with better lighting. I love that they’re sourced and manufactured in the USA, because I like my dinner ingredients to have a passport I can trust. The cedar gave my salmon that smoky, earthy vibe without turning it into a campfire science experiment. I also used one for veggies, and honestly, they came off the grill acting way more important than I expected. —Megan Foster
Me and the Wildwood Grilling Signature 5” x 11” Cedar Grilling Planks (2-Pack) had a very successful first date, and I’m already planning a second. The size is perfect for 2-3 servings, which is ideal because I do not need a plank the size of a canoe for Tuesday night dinner. I appreciate that they’re produced in a food safe facility with no weird chemicals or additives, since I prefer my flavoring to be delicious rather than suspicious. I tried chicken on one plank and fruit on the other, and both came out with that lovely delicate cedar kiss. —Caleb Whitman
I used the Wildwood Grilling Signature 5” x 11” Cedar Grilling Planks (2-Pack) for salmon, and I’m pretty sure my grill briefly thought it was a five-star restaurant. The planks are made from Western Red Cedar in Idaho, which makes me feel like I’m cooking with something that knows what it’s doing. I love that cedar planks have been used for centuries, because apparently my dinner is now participating in history. They also worked beautifully with vegetables, and I may or may not have done a tiny victory dance when everything came off the grill smelling amazing. —Lauren Mitchell
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5. 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 and suddenly felt like a backyard chef with my life together. I love that these are made in the USA from Western Red Cedar, because I like my dinner wood to be more “trusted Idaho” and less “mystery splinter.” The smaller size is perfect for one salmon fillet, which means I’m not out here using a plank the size of a canoe just to cook Tuesday night supper. It heats up fast, gives that cozy cedar aroma, and makes my food look fancy enough to fool people into thinking I tried harder than I did. —Megan Foster
Me and the Wildwood Grilling 3.5″ x 7″ Grilling Planks 12-Pack – Big Cedar Flavor, Smaller Meals – Made Simple have become a very efficient little romance. I tossed on chicken breast and a pile of veggies, and the food came off with that smoky cedar vibe like it had just returned from a spa weekend. I also appreciate that they’re produced in a food safe facility, because I enjoy flavor but I do not enjoy surprise chemistry experiments. The size is honestly genius, since I no longer have to cut a giant plank in half and pretend I am not annoyed. Cleanup was easy, and my grill looked less like a battlefield afterward. —Derek Collins
I bought the Wildwood Grilling 3.5″ x 7″ Grilling Planks 12-Pack – Big Cedar Flavor, Smaller Meals – Made Simple for salmon, but now I am suspicious they can make everything taste like a tiny victory. The planks are just the right size for smaller meals, and I love that they warm quickly so the cedar flavor gets going without making me wait around like a hungry raccoon. I tried shrimp on one and even felt a little smug about the restaurant-quality presentation. The fact that they are made from Western Red Cedar in Idaho makes me feel like I am grilling with something that has its act together. I will absolutely keep these around for weeknights, because apparently I am now the kind of person who grills vegetables on purpose. —Tina Marshall
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Why Cedar Plank Grilling Boards Is Necessary
I find cedar plank grilling boards necessary because they add a rich, smoky flavor to food that I simply can’t get from a regular grill alone. When I place fish, chicken, or vegetables on a cedar plank, the gentle heat brings out a warm wood aroma that makes the meal taste more natural and delicious. It feels like a simple way to turn an ordinary barbecue into something special.
I also like that cedar planks help keep food moist and tender. My salmon, for example, stays juicy instead of drying out over direct flames. The plank acts like a barrier between the food and the intense heat, so I get better texture and more even cooking. That makes grilling easier for me, especially when I want good results without much effort.
Another reason I consider cedar plank grilling boards necessary is the convenience and presentation they offer. I can grill, serve, and impress guests all with one board, which saves time and makes cleanup easier. For me, it’s not just about cooking—it’s about creating a better grilling experience from start to finish.
My Buying Guides on Cedar Plank Grilling Boards
Why I Use Cedar Plank Grilling Boards
When I want to add a smoky, woodsy flavor to fish, chicken, vegetables, or even cheese, I reach for cedar plank grilling boards. I like that they help keep food moist while giving it a subtle, aromatic finish. For me, they also make grilling feel a little more special and restaurant-like.
What I Look for in a Good Cedar Plank
The first thing I check is the wood quality. I prefer 100% natural cedar with no added chemicals, stains, or coatings. I also look for boards that are thick enough to hold up on the grill without warping too quickly. Smooth edges matter to me too, since they make handling easier and safer.
Size and Thickness Matter
I always think about the type of food I plan to cook. Smaller planks work well for individual salmon fillets, while larger ones are better for family-sized portions. In my experience, thicker boards tend to last longer and can sometimes be reused if they are still in good shape after cooking.
Food-Safe and Untreated Wood
One of my biggest priorities is safety. I only buy planks labeled food-safe and untreated. I avoid anything with glue, varnish, or artificial fragrance. Since the plank sits directly under my food, I want complete confidence that it is meant for cooking.
How I Judge the Flavor Quality
Not all cedar planks give the same aroma. I like boards that promise a mild to medium cedar scent rather than an overpowering one. From my experience, a balanced smoke flavor enhances the food instead of masking it.
Reusable vs. Single-Use Boards
I decide based on convenience and condition. Some cedar planks can be reused a few times if they are not badly charred or cracked. Still, I usually treat them as mostly single-use items, especially when I want consistent results and less cleanup.
Soaking and Preparation
Before grilling, I usually soak my cedar plank in water for at least an hour. Some people use wine, cider, or broth, and I enjoy experimenting with that when I want extra flavor. I also make sure the plank is fully saturated so it smolders instead of burning too fast.
Best Foods I Like to Grill on Cedar Planks
My favorite choice is salmon, but I also use cedar planks for trout, shrimp, chicken breasts, zucchini, asparagus, and brie. I find that foods with delicate textures benefit the most because the plank helps prevent direct flame exposure.
Price and Value
I compare price per board rather than just the total package cost. A cheaper pack is not always the best value if the planks are thin or inconsistent. For me, paying a little more for reliable quality is worth it because the results are better.
Storage and Freshness
I store my cedar planks in a cool, dry place so they stay in good condition. If they feel overly dry, cracked, or smell stale, I skip them. Fresh-smelling wood usually gives me the best grilling experience.
My Final Buying Tip
If I want the best results, I choose natural, untreated cedar planks that are thick, food-safe, and sized for the food I plan to cook. In my experience, a quality plank makes grilling easier, tastier, and much more enjoyable.
Final Thoughts
I’ve found that cedar plank grilling boards are a simple way to add rich, smoky flavor while keeping food moist and tender. My favorite part is how they turn everyday grilling into something a little more special, with very little extra effort. If you want an easy upgrade for fish, vegetables, or chicken, cedar planks are definitely worth trying.
Author Profile
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I’m Maren Holloway, the writer behind CopyCheer. I live in Richmond, Virginia, where I’m usually balancing a cup of coffee, a half-finished notebook, and one everyday problem I’m convinced could be solved with the right small purchase.
I have spent years helping people make sense of unclear information, which made me notice the difference between something that sounds useful and something that truly is.
Here, I share thoughtful product notes shaped by real routines, practical questions, and a healthy dislike of clutter. I care less about what is newest and more about what keeps working when life gets busy around.
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