Best Pizza Stone Reviews

How to Choose Pizza Stones

Choosing the right pizza stone for your commercial kitchen can be a challenging task due to the variety of pizza types and different cooking preferences. Before making a purchase, examine the specific needs of your kitchen, consider the pizzas on your menu, and make sure you have the right type of pizza oven.

1. Pizza Stone Shape

Different pizza stone shapes lend themselves to different pizzas and cooking styles. Each shape offers distinct advantages, so choose the one that aligns with your menu offerings and cooking preferences.

• Square pizza stones: Square pizza stones are considered the most versatile option, and their even shape allows for consistent heat distribution. If the square pizza stone is large enough, it can accommodate nearly any type of pizza.
• Round pizza stones: Round pizza stones are the most traditional shape and are well-suited for most standard pies, as their circular design promotes even cooking and crispy crusts.
• Rectangular pizza stones: Rectangular pizza stones are tailored for flatbread pizzas and specialty pies. The elongated shape of rectangular pizza stones provides ample space for creating unique pizza creations.

2. Pizza Stone Thickness

Pizza stones come in various thicknesses, ranging from 1/4" to 1" or more. Consider the volume of pizzas you plan to bake, the desired crust texture, and the cooking speed you need when selecting the ideal thickness.

• Thick pizza stones: The density of a thick stone allows it to absorb and hold heat effectively, resulting in a crispier crust and evenly cooked toppings. This is especially beneficial for commercial kitchens that require consistent and high-volume pizza production. However, it's important to note that a thick pizza stone takes longer to heat up initially and retains heat for a longer period, even after the pizza is removed from the oven.
• Thin pizza stones: Thin pizza stones recover heat faster, meaning they quickly return to the desired temperature between batches of pizzas. Additionally, thinner stones preheat more rapidly, allowing you to start baking pizzas sooner for efficient service. However, it's important to note that thinner stones may not retain heat as effectively as their thicker counterparts, which can impact cooking performance and consistency.

3. Pizza Stone Material

Common pizza stone materials include cast iron, ceramic, and cordierite. These materials offer different heat retention capabilities and levels of durability, and you should carefully examine each type before finalizing a decision.

• Cast iron: Cast iron pizza stones are a popular choice for their versatility and ease of cleaning. They excel in retaining heat and can withstand high temperatures, making them ideal for various cooking methods. To maintain their performance, cast iron pizza stones must be seasoned regularly. Use them on the stovetop, the grill, or in select pizza ovens.
• Ceramic: Ceramic pizza stones are the best at promoting even cooking. While they take longer to heat up and cool down, they provide excellent heat retention during the cooking process. However, they are less durable compared to other materials and are more prone to cracking if not handled and cared for correctly.
• Cordierite: Cordierite pizza stones are considered the most durable option available. While they may take longer to heat up initially, cordierite stones maintain a consistent temperature throughout the cooking process. Additionally, cordierite draws moisture away from the dough, resulting in a crispy crust.

The pizza stone you choose can play a significant role in the quality and consistency of your pizzas. They ensure the even distribution of heat across your pizza dough and are a must-have in any pizza kitchen. By familiarizing yourself with the best pizza stones on the market and the different types of stones available, you can set your pizza business up for success.