7 Best Cedar Planks for Smoke Preservation of Salmon

You'll discover that cedar plank grilling transforms ordinary salmon into a smoky, flavor-rich delicacy that rivals high-end restaurant offerings. While many planks claim to enhance your grilling experience, not all deliver the perfect balance of smoke infusion and moisture retention that makes this cooking method so special. Let's explore seven exceptional cedar plank options that'll help you master the art of smoke-preserved salmon at home.

Cedar Planks for Grilling Salmon (5 Pack)

These premium cedar planks stand out as the ideal choice for both novice grillers and seasoned chefs who value authentic wood-fired flavors. Crafted from 100% Western Red Cedar and kiln-dried to perfection, you'll get consistent results with each use.

At 7/16 inches thick, you're getting durable planks that can be reused multiple times. They're sized perfectly at 12 x 6 inches, giving you ample space for salmon fillets or other proteins. You'll also appreciate the included storage bag and recipe card to get started right away. With over 1,300 customers rating them 4.5 stars, these chemical-free planks deliver the smoky flavor you're looking for.

Best For: Home grillers and BBQ enthusiasts looking for a high-quality, reusable cedar plank set to add authentic smoky flavor to salmon and other foods.

Pros:

• Thick, durable construction (7/16") allows for multiple uses unlike thinner alternatives
• Made from 100% Western Red Cedar with no harmful chemicals for safe, authentic flavor
• Comes complete with storage bag and recipe card for convenience and immediate use

Cons:

• Limited size (12 x 6") may not accommodate larger cuts of fish or multiple portions
• Premium price point compared to basic single-use planks
• Requires proper maintenance and drying between uses to ensure longevity

Cedar Planks for Grilling Salmon (12 Pack, USA Made)

Quality-conscious grillers will appreciate these premium cedar planks from Wildwood Grilling, made from 100% Western Red Cedar and sourced entirely in the USA. At 12L x 11W x 5Th inches, they're perfectly sized for individual portions of salmon, pork, chicken, or vegetables.

You'll need to soak these planks for 3-4 hours before use on your gas grill, charcoal grill, or in the oven. The cedar imparts a subtle smoky flavor while keeping your food moist. With a 4.5-star rating from over 1,500 customers, these planks consistently deliver excellent results. Just scan the QR code for detailed instructions, and you're ready to elevate your grilling game.

Best For: Home grillers and outdoor cooking enthusiasts who want to add authentic wood-smoked flavor to their meals while supporting USA-made products.

Pros:

• High-quality Western Red Cedar construction provides safe, chemical-free cooking and authentic smoky flavor
• Perfect size for individual portions and versatile enough for multiple food types including salmon, chicken, and vegetables
• Includes QR code for easy access to instructions and consistently receives positive customer reviews

Cons:

• Requires 3-4 hours of soaking time before use, requiring advance meal planning
• May not be large enough for cooking whole salmon sides or serving large groups
• Limited reusability as planks can become charred or warped after use

Cedar Planks for Grilling Salmon (12 Pack)

Outdoor cooking enthusiasts searching for a reliable grilling accessory will find excellent value in this 12-pack of premium cedar planks. At 11 x 5.75 inches, these 0.4-inch thick planks are perfect for individual salmon filets and vegetables.

You'll need to soak them for 1-2 hours before use to prevent burning. The 100% natural cedar construction imparts a delicious smoky flavor while keeping your fish moist. While they're not large enough for a whole side of salmon, you can use multiple planks for bigger portions. Best of all, they're reusable if properly maintained, making them a cost-effective choice for your grilling adventures.

Best For: Home grillers and seafood enthusiasts who want to enhance their salmon and other seafood dishes with authentic cedar smoke flavor while maintaining moisture.

Pros:

• High-quality, thick cedar planks (0.4") that can be reused multiple times
• 12-pack offering excellent value compared to individual store-bought planks
• Natural, chemical-free cedar provides authentic smoky flavor and aroma

Cons:

• Individual plank size (11 x 5.75") too small for whole salmon sides
• Requires 1-2 hours of soaking time before use
• May need multiple planks for larger portions or group cooking

Cedar Grilling Planks – 12 Pack

Grilling enthusiasts seeking restaurant-quality smoked salmon will find exceptional value in Grill Gourmet's 12-pack of cedar planks. These USA-made planks measure 11×5.5 inches with enhanced thickness for superior heat resistance and smoke infusion.

You'll need to soak each plank for 30 minutes before grilling. While they're single-use only, the textured surface maximizes smoke absorption for that coveted cedar flavor. The pack's earned a 4.4-star rating from over 10,000 customers who praise its moisture retention and cooking performance. Though some users report sawdust residue, a quick rinse before soaking resolves this minor issue.

Best For: Home grillers and seafood enthusiasts looking to achieve restaurant-quality smoked dishes, particularly salmon, with authentic cedar wood flavor.

Pros:

• Premium USA-made cedar planks with ideal 11×5.5-inch dimensions for most grilling needs
• Excellent value with 12 planks per pack and consistently high customer satisfaction (4.4/5 stars)
• Enhanced thickness provides superior heat resistance and reliable smoke infusion

Cons:

• Single-use only design means ongoing replacement costs
• Requires 30-minute pre-soak time before each use
• Some planks may have sawdust residue requiring cleaning before first use

Cedar Grilling Planks for Salmon (6 Pack, USA Made)

For home cooks seeking restaurant-quality results, these USA-made cedar grilling planks deliver an authentic smoky flavor to your salmon. Each 5×11-inch plank serves 3-4 portions, while a larger 7×15 option accommodates full fillets.

You'll appreciate that these food-safe planks are crafted from premium American cedar, unlike some Chinese alternatives that use unsafe glue composites. With proper soaking, you can reuse them for various proteins, vegetables, and even desserts. The Wood Fire Grilling Co.'s six-pack has earned a 4.5-star rating from over 3,000 customers who praise their quality and value. They're ranked #4 in Grilling Planks, reflecting their reliable performance.

Best For: Home cooks and grilling enthusiasts who want to achieve restaurant-quality smoked salmon and other grilled dishes using safe, reusable American-made cedar planks.

Pros:

• High-quality USA-sourced cedar ensures food safety and authentic smoky flavor
• Versatile size (5×11") serves 3-4 portions and can be reused for multiple dishes
• Strong customer satisfaction with 4.5/5 stars from over 3,000 reviews

Cons:

• Limited to 3-4 servings per plank (larger size must be purchased separately)
• Requires pre-soaking time before each use
• More expensive than imported alternatives (though justified by safety and quality)

Western Red Cedar Grilling Planks, XL (8 Pack)

These premium Western Red Cedar planks deliver restaurant-quality results for home cooks who want to master cedar-plank grilling. At 7×15 inches, each XL plank easily accommodates a full salmon filet, while the quarter-inch thickness guarantees durability for multiple uses.

You'll find these USA-made planks are consistently sized and free from defects, making them ideal for smoking fish, meat, and vegetables. Before grilling, soak your plank overnight for the best results. Keep the lid closed while cooking to maximize the cedar's aromatic infusion. If you use indirect heat, you can get 2-3 uses per plank – just brush clean and rinse without soap.

Best For: Home grillers and BBQ enthusiasts who want to add authentic cedar-smoked flavor to their dishes, particularly those who frequently cook salmon or other seafood.

Pros:

• Premium quality, uniformly sized planks made from genuine USA-sourced Western Red Cedar
• Extra-large 7×15 inch size perfectly fits full salmon filets
• Can be reused 2-3 times with proper care and indirect heat cooking

Cons:

• Requires significant prep time with overnight soaking needed
• Limited reusability compared to metal or ceramic grilling accessories
• More expensive than disposable aluminum foil or direct-on-grill cooking

Cedar Planks for Grilling (5 Pack)

Premium Western Red Cedar forms the foundation of this 5-pack grilling set, making it perfect for outdoor cooking enthusiasts who value both quality and versatility. At 7/16 inches thick, these durable planks deliver rich, smoky flavors while being chemical-free and kiln-dried for ideal moisture control.

Each 12 x 6-inch plank gives you plenty of space for salmon and other proteins. You'll appreciate the included recipe card and storage bag, while the consistent 4.5-star rating from over 1,300 customers confirms their reliability. Whether you're grilling fish, vegetables, or meats, these planks offer exceptional value and make an impressive gift for any grilling aficionado.

Best For: Home grillers and BBQ enthusiasts looking for a high-quality, chemical-free way to add authentic cedar smoke flavor to their outdoor cooking, especially those who frequently prepare salmon and other seafood.

Pros:

• Premium 7/16-inch thick Western Red Cedar construction ensures durability and multiple uses
• Includes helpful extras like a recipe card and storage bag
• Strong 4.5-star rating from over 1,300 customers validates quality and performance

Cons:

• Limited width of 6 inches may be too narrow for larger cuts of meat or serving multiple portions
• Higher price point compared to thinner, disposable cedar planks
• Requires proper preparation and soaking time before each use

Factors to Consider When Choosing Cedar Planks for Smoke Preservation of Salmon

When selecting cedar planks for smoking salmon, you'll need to weigh several critical factors that impact your results. You should consider the plank's thickness and durability, the specific type and source of cedar, appropriate sizing for your portions, required soaking times, and heat resistance capabilities. These key elements will determine not only the quality of smoke flavor but also how effectively your planks perform during the preservation process.

Plank Thickness and Durability

Selecting the right cedar plank thickness plays an important role in achieving ideal smoke preservation for salmon. You'll want to choose planks between 0.34 and 0.4375 inches thick, with 7/16-inch thickness offering maximum durability and smoke infusion. If you're planning multiple uses, thicker planks will better withstand high temperatures and extended cooking times.

Look for 100% Western Red Cedar planks that are kiln-dried, as they'll provide superior moisture absorption and resist cracking under heat. This enhanced moisture retention is vital for properly steaming your fish while infusing it with cedar's signature flavor. When selecting your plank, verify it's at least 11 inches wide to accommodate your salmon portions comfortably and maintain stability throughout the smoking process.

Cedar Type and Source

Beyond plank dimensions, the type and source of your cedar directly impact the quality of smoked salmon. You'll want to select 100% Western Red Cedar (Thuja Plicata) for its distinctive aromatic properties that enhance your fish's flavor profile. When shopping for planks, look for those manufactured in the USA, as they're held to stricter quality standards and sustainable production practices.

Make sure you're using kiln-dried cedar planks, which absorb moisture better and won't burn as quickly during the smoking process. Avoid any cedar that might contain chemicals or additives, as these can transfer unwanted flavors to your salmon. The best planks will be clearly labeled as food-grade Western Red Cedar, with no artificial treatments or preservatives that could compromise your smoking results.

Size and Portion Fit

The dimensions of your cedar planks play a significant role in achieving perfectly smoked salmon. When selecting planks, you'll need to match their size to your salmon portions. Standard 5×11-inch planks work well for individual filets, while larger 7×15-inch options are better suited for whole sides of salmon.

Choose planks that are around 7/16 inches thick, as they'll provide better durability and enhance the smoky flavor infusion during the grilling process. You'll also want to guarantee your planks fit comfortably on your grill, leaving enough space for proper heat circulation. If you're planning to smoke multiple portions, consider buying packs with several planks to give yourself more flexibility in accommodating different serving sizes.

Soaking Time Requirements

Proper soaking time stands as one of the most essential factors when preparing cedar planks for salmon smoking. You'll need to soak your planks for 1-4 hours before use, with longer soaking periods yielding better results. For the best outcome, submerge your planks completely in water for 3-4 hours, especially if you're working with thicker boards.

While you might be tempted to cut corners with a quick 30-minute soak for thin planks, you won't get the same level of flavor infusion or moisture retention. Keep in mind that inadequately soaked planks can catch fire during grilling, so you'll need to monitor them closely and adjust your heat accordingly. Always guarantee full submersion during the soaking process to prevent dry spots that could compromise your smoking results.

Heat Resistance Properties

Selecting cedar planks with ideal heat resistance goes hand in hand with proper soaking techniques. You'll want to choose planks that are approximately 7/16 inches thick, as this dimension offers optimal durability and heat retention during your salmon smoking sessions.

Western Red Cedar is your best choice, as it's naturally resistant to high temperatures and won't warp or split when exposed to direct heat. While these planks can withstand intense grilling temperatures, you'll get better results and extend their lifespan by placing them over indirect heat. This method preserves the wood's integrity and allows for multiple uses.

For maximum heat resistance, don't skip the essential soaking step before each use. This prevents the wood from catching fire and guarantees consistent smoke production throughout your cooking process.

Chemical-Free Wood Treatment

Safe and chemical-free cedar planks serve as a foundation for healthy salmon smoking. You'll want to select 100% natural Western Red Cedar planks that explicitly state they're untreated and safe for food use. This guarantees you won't expose your salmon to harmful toxins that can be released when treated wood is heated.

Look for kiln-dried cedar planks, as they provide ideal moisture absorption during the smoking process without chemical interference. When shopping, verify that your planks are sustainably sourced and certified for food preparation. This isn't just about protecting your health; it's also about environmental responsibility. By choosing chemical-free cedar, you'll enhance the natural smoking flavors while maintaining the integrity of your salmon dish.

Reusability and Maintenance

Cedar planks offer significant value through their reusability, making them a cost-effective choice for salmon smoking enthusiasts. You'll get multiple uses from your planks if you properly soak them for 1-4 hours before grilling and use indirect heat during cooking.

To maximize your planks' lifespan, avoid using soap when cleaning them, as it strips away essential natural oils that enhance flavor. Instead, gently brush the surface and rinse with water. While grilling, keep a close eye on potential flare-ups that could damage your planks and reduce their future usability.

When you're done cooking, store your planks in a cool, dry place to preserve their smoke-producing qualities. With proper maintenance and careful monitoring during use, you'll extend the life of your cedar planks while maintaining their superior flavor-infusing properties.

Flavor Infusion Capacity

When choosing planks for smoking salmon, the flavor infusion capacity plays an essential role in your culinary success. You'll want to select 100% Western Red Cedar planks, as they're specifically known for imparting a subtle smoky taste that enhances your salmon's natural flavors.

The thickness of your cedar plank directly affects its ability to infuse flavor. Look for planks that are around 7/16 inches thick – they'll provide better durability and superior smoke absorption. To maximize flavor infusion, you'll need to soak your planks for 3-4 hours before grilling. This preparation guarantees ideal moisture retention during cooking.

Make sure you're using food-safe cedar to avoid any unwanted chemicals or off-flavors. The right plank won't just add flavor; it'll help keep your salmon moist and prevent overcooking while releasing aromatic qualities.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Long Can Smoked Salmon Last When Preserved With Cedar Planks?

You'll find properly smoked salmon can last 1-2 weeks when refrigerated, or up to 6 months if vacuum-sealed and frozen. It's essential you store it below 40°F and check for any off-smells before eating.

Can Cedar Planks Be Used for Smoking Other Types of Fish?

You can definitely use cedar planks to smoke any firm-fleshed fish. They work great with halibut, trout, cod, and sea bass. The cedar's sweet, aromatic flavor enhances most seafood varieties beautifully.

What Temperature Should Cedar Planks Be Stored at Between Uses?

You'll want to store your cedar planks in a cool, dry place between 35-70°F. Don't keep them in humid areas, and you can wrap them in paper bags to prevent moisture absorption and mold growth.

Are There Health Risks Associated With Reusing Cedar Planks Multiple Times?

You'll face potential health risks when reusing cedar planks, including bacteria growth, mold formation, and chemical leaching. It's safer to use fresh planks each time or limit reuse to 2-3 times maximum.

Does the Thickness of Cedar Planks Affect the Salmon's Smoke Absorption?

Yes, plank thickness directly impacts smoke absorption. You'll want to use planks that are 1/2 to 3/4 inch thick. Thinner planks burn too quickly, while thicker ones won't transfer enough smoky flavor to your salmon.

In Summary

You'll find that selecting the right cedar plank is essential for perfectly smoked salmon. Whether you choose a USA-made option or a value pack, make certain you're getting genuine Western Red Cedar at the proper thickness. Don't forget to take into account your portion sizes and soaking requirements. Remember, investing in quality planks will directly impact your salmon's flavor, moisture, and overall smoking success.