Looking to elevate your pizza game and create professional-grade pies at home? A pizza stone is an essential investment for any serious pizza enthusiast. By using this simple yet effective tool, you can achieve the same crispy crust and smoky flavor found in traditional wood-fired pizzerias right in your own kitchen.
The 10 Best Pizza Stones
When it comes to cooking the perfect pizza at home, having the right tools can make all the difference. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the top pizza stones from various brands, each with its own unique features and benefits. From the Cuisinart CPS-113 Alfrescamore Cordierite Pizza Stone to the Emile Henry Pizza Stone, here are some of the best options on the market.
The Unicook Pizza Grilling Stone is perfect for outdoor cooking enthusiasts, while the ROCKSHEAT Pizza Stone offers a high-quality alternative to traditional pizza stones. For those looking for something more unique, the NerdChef Steel Stone (our top pick) is a great option.
Our Top Pick for the Best Pizza Stone
Our top recommendation for a pizza stone that brings the authentic wood-fired gourmet pizza experience to your home is the NerdChef Steel Stone. This exceptional baking stone is perfect for pizza enthusiasts of all levels, whether you’re looking to satisfy a solo craving or feed a crowd at a backyard gathering. With its ability to produce mouthwatering pizzas, it’s no wonder the NerdChef Steel Pizza Stone has earned its place as an essential tool in any pizza lover’s kitchen.
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What is a Pizza Stone?
Ditch your traditional baking tray for a game-changing cooking experience – the pizza stone! This ultimate kitchen companion is designed to produce professional-style pizzas that are sure to impress. Whether you’re a fan of classic New York thin-crust or hearty, cheesy thick-crusted pizzas perfect for Super Bowl Sunday, the pizza stone is the secret ingredient your taste buds have been craving.
With its thick, flat surface, this versatile baking stone comes in various shapes – round, square, and rectangular – and sizes ranging from 13 to 16 inches, giving you the freedom to create the perfect pie.
How Does a Pizza Stone Work?
To achieve the perfect bake, position the pizza stone on the middle rack or bottom of the oven and preheat it to the desired temperature. As the pizza is placed onto the heated stone, the stone’s porous material absorbs and retains the heat, which is then transferred to the pizza crust. This results in a perfectly cooked pizza with a golden brown top that bubbles up delightfully, a crispy outer layer that provides a satisfying crunch, and no soggy or undercooked middle section.
The process is straightforward, and we’ve even prepared a helpful video guide to get you started with your new pizza stone.
Versatile Cooking Tool
A pizza stone is an incredibly adaptable cooking tool that can be utilized for baking a wide range of treats beyond just pizzas. Not only can it handle fresh or frozen pies, but also bread, cookies, muffins, and countless other baked goods. In fact, some stones are even suitable for serving chilled desserts like the NerdChef Steel Stone. Its versatility extends to various cooking methods as well, including use under a grill, on the BBQ, and even in the broiler.
How to Choose the Best Pizza Stone
Construction
When it comes to selecting a pizza stone, heat resistance is crucial. For this reason, materials like lead-free clay, cordierite, stoneware (ceramic), and steel are ideal choices. These materials can withstand extremely high temperatures without cracking or breaking. Lead-free clay, for instance, has the unique ability to absorb moisture as the pizza bakes, resulting in a moist but not soggy crust.
However, clay pizza stones require preheating in the oven for at least 30 minutes and can be challenging to clean. They are also prone to cracking or breaking if dropped. Cordierite, on the other hand, is highly resistant to thermal shock, allowing it to handle sudden temperature changes without compromising its structure. The only drawback of this material is that it may change color over time.
Notable examples of cordierite pizza stones include the Solido Pizza Stone, which can tolerate temperatures up to 1,500 or 2,000°F. Stoneware (ceramic) cookware is another popular option for pizza stones. While ceramic does an excellent job of conducting heat for optimal cooking performance, it may crack if not preheated properly. Steel pizza stones, such as the NerdChef Steel Stone, are hailed as a modern alternative to cast iron.
These stones can withstand high temperatures over 400°F and conduct heat faster than traditional pizza stones, allowing for even cooking at lower temperatures. The steel is extremely strong and will not break or crack like ceramic or clay, but it does come with the drawbacks of being heavy and very hot to handle. When it comes to finishes, pizza stones can be glazed or unglazed. Most stones are unglazed as they are designed to absorb moisture during cooking.
Some stones feature a micro-glazed finish that allows moisture to seep through the cracks in the glaze. Glazed stones enable you to cut the pizza directly on the stone without damaging the surface. On the other hand, unglazed stones can be difficult to clean as the pizza may stick to the surface, but applying cooking spray can help make the stone nonstick.
10 Best Pizza Stones – Reviews
Cuisinart CPS-113 Alfrescamore Cordierite Pizza Stone
Experience the art of perfectly baked pizzas with the Cuisinart CPS-113 Alfrescamore Cordierite Pizza Stone. This 13-inch, 3/8-inch thick black cordierite stone features a ceramic glaze that provides durability and resistance to high temperatures, as well as excellent thermal shock resistance. The stone can be used in ovens ranging from 400 to 450 degrees Fahrenheit, under a grill, or in an outdoor oven, making it versatile for baking a variety of foods such as calzones, bread, and desserts.
One of the unique features is that you can even cut your pizza directly on the stone, eliminating the need for plates or utensils. The Cuisinart team designed the stone to distribute heat evenly, ensuring that the dough cooks from the bottom up for a crispy crust. For optimal results, it’s recommended to preheat the stone for 15 minutes before adding a fresh pizza. The special glaze also prevents the stone from discoloring and makes cleaning a breeze – simply toss it in the dishwasher.
The Cuisinart CPS-113 Alfrescamore Cordierite Pizza Stone comes with a 90-day money-back guarantee and a 1-year limited warranty, giving you peace of mind when using this high-quality product. Its benefits include its affordability, ideal size for two people, ability to distribute heat evenly, thermal shock resistance, golden brown crust creation, attractive black color, versatility in use, direct cutting capability, ease of cleaning, and quick preheating time.
Solido Pizza Stone
Indulge in the art of pizza making with the Solido Pizza Stone, a game-changing cooking companion that allows you to create mouthwatering pies at home. Measuring 14 x 16 inches, this large rectangular surface provides ample space for adding your favorite toppings, and its durable cordierite construction ensures it can withstand high temperatures up to 2000°F. Whether you’re using gas, electric, or charcoal ovens, grills, or BBQs, the Solido Pizza Stone is an versatile cooking solution.
The secret to its exceptional performance lies in its unique Heat Spiral base, which allows for rapid heat-up and even heat distribution, resulting in perfectly cooked toppings and crust. The beautifully crafted feet also provide a superior grip and maneuverability when removing the stone from the oven. Plus, you can use it not just for pizzas, but also for baking cookies, bread, or frozen treats.
Solido’s commitment to quality is evident in their products, with exclusive recipes, cooking tips, and customer support available on their website. While some may be deterred by its higher price point, the value proposition is undeniable. On the other hand, some users may experience discoloration over time, and it’s not dishwasher or soap-friendly. Nevertheless, the Solido Pizza Stone remains a top choice for pizza enthusiasts seeking to elevate their culinary skills.
MOSCHE Pizza Stone
When you’re a regular at-home pizzeria, you’ll love the MOSCHE Pizza Stone as your go-to cooking companion. This 15 x 12-inch cordierite masterpiece boasts an impressive heat resistance of up to 1408°F, exceptional thermal shock resistance, and high heat retention capabilities. What does this mean for you? You can pop this stone into ovens with temperatures reaching 500°F, wood-burning brick ovens, or even your grill.
The cordierite heats up lightning-fast and retains heat for a long time, allowing each slice of pizza to emerge golden and delicious. But the MOSCHE Pizza Stone isn’t just for pizza – it’s also perfect for baking bread and cookies. The included FREE scraper doubles as a dough cutter and residue remover, making cooking and cleanup a breeze. One thing to keep in mind: this stone is heavy, so you’ll need thick oven mitts and a slider to remove your perfectly cooked creations.
And when it comes to cleaning, the smooth surface responds well to warm water, but avoid soap or detergent as they can cause unpleasant chemical smells. Additionally, seasoning the stone with oil or grease may compromise its natural non-stick properties. The pros of this pizza stone far outweigh the cons: high-quality construction, great value for money, and exceptional heat resistance make it an ideal choice. Plus, you’ll appreciate the versatility it brings to your cooking routine.
Love This Kitchen Ultimate Pizza Stone
If you’re a pizza aficionado, achieving authentic gourmet pizza at home is now possible with the Love This Kitchen Ultimate Pizza Stone. This 16-inch round stone is crafted from ThermaShock Cordierite and can withstand temperatures up to 1500°F, making it suitable for use in various ovens and grills. The stone’s unique design ensures exceptional heat retention, thanks to its 0.83-inch thickness, which also reduces the likelihood of breakage.
The highly absorbent pores mimic those found in pizzeria-style brick ovens, extracting moisture from the dough to produce a crispy, crunchy crust. Furthermore, the Core Convection Technology concentrates heat at the stone’s core and projects it outwardly, resulting in even cooking. This versatile stone can also be used for baking bread, flatbread, and cookies, fitting most standard ovens that measure at least 17 inches deep.
A ‘no-spill’ feature on one side prevents the pizza from sliding off when removed from the oven, ensuring mess-free cooking. At 8.8lbs, the stone is surprisingly lightweight and slightly elevated, making it easy to lift and carry pizzas. Love This Kitchen offers a 60-day money-back guarantee and limited lifetime warranty, accompanied by online tutorials and recipes.
The pros of this product include superior quality, excellent price, great value for money, highly absorbent pores simulating restaurant brick ovens, a large round stone producing crispy crusts, exclusive Core Convection Technology, ThermaShock technology, and superior engineering for greater heat retention. The only cons are the lack of flatness on the bottom, which may make it difficult to slide out from some ovens, and its size might be too big for certain convection ovens.
Honey-Can-Do Oven Pizza Stone
The Honey-Can-Do Oven Pizza Stone is a top-notch choice for baking large, restaurant-quality pizzas that impress family and friends. Crafted from lead-free clay, this durable pizza stone is designed to withstand extremely high temperatures of up to 2000°F, making it perfect for use in both conventional ovens and grills. Its unique Heat Core technology ensures excellent heat retention and distribution, eliminating soggy centers and guaranteeing a crispy, chewy crust with each bake.
The extra-large size of the stone accommodates family-sized pizzas, and its flat surface makes it easy to cut and serve slices directly from the baking stone. Beyond pizza, this versatile stone can also be used for baking fresh bread and biscuits. Its built-in pedestal provides stability on oven shelves or grill racks, ensuring even cooking results. Cleaning is a breeze, simply washing the stone in hot water without soap.
With its impressive array of features and benefits, including high-quality construction, excellent price point, and ease of use, this pizza stone is an excellent addition to any home kitchen.
Unicook Pizza Grilling Stone
The Unicook Pizza Grilling Stone is an exceptional choice for baking homemade pizzas, offering a unique combination of quality and value. This 6-inch thick cordite stone boasts excellent thermal shock resistance, allowing it to withstand high temperatures up to 1450°F without cracking or warping. Weighing only 6.6lbs, the rectangular shape makes it easy to maneuver and grasp as you take your freshly baked creations out of the oven.
Its heat-absorbing properties ensure a crispy crust, while its odorless design prevents noxious fumes from filling your kitchen. This durable stone is perfect for cooking a variety of dishes beyond just pizza, including bread and cookies. Its even heat distribution allows for optimal cooking results, making it an excellent addition to any kitchen. Although it’s not dishwasher safe, the stone can be easily rinsed by hand after use.
The Unicook Pizza Grilling Stone offers several notable pros, including its high quality, affordable price, great value for money, and durable construction. Additionally, it can be used in both traditional ovens and outdoor grills, making it a versatile addition to any cooking setup. The stone’s even heat distribution and moisture-absorbing properties create a crispy crust that rivals professional pizzerias.
While there are some minor drawbacks to consider, such as the lack of handles and difficulty cutting pizza on the stone, its many benefits make the Unicook Pizza Grilling Stone an excellent choice for home cooks seeking to elevate their pizza-baking game.
ROCKSHEAT Pizza Stone
The ROCKSHEAT Pizza Stone is an exceptional cooking companion that elevates your pizza game. Its durable cordierite construction boasts an impressive thermal resistance of up to 1400°F, making it suitable for use in electric and gas ovens, as well as charcoal grills. This feature enables you to achieve a perfectly cooked crust with a crispy texture. The stone’s smooth surface ensures effortless pizza removal, while its lightweight design (4.
4lbs) and integrated handles make it easy to transport from the oven to your table. The innovative double-sided design allows for versatile use on both sides of the stone. Beyond pizza, this stone is an excellent addition to any baker’s arsenal, capable of producing a wide range of delicious treats, including bread and cookies. Cleaning the stone is a breeze with just a wet towel, and its durability ensures it will withstand repeated use.
Additionally, the ROCKSHEAT Pizza Stone is available in square or rectangular shapes for added versatility. The pros of this product far outweigh the cons. Its high-quality construction, reasonable price point, and excellent heat retention make it an exceptional value. However, it’s essential to note that preheating the stone is crucial to prevent cracking, and avoid using detergents when cleaning to prevent a chemical smell.
With proper care, this stone will remain a trusted cooking companion for years to come.
Emile Henry Pizza Stone
Indulge in the art of creating mouthwatering pizzas with perfectly cooked, crispy crusts using the Emile Henry Pizza Stone. Crafted from 100% natural clay in France, this exceptional stone boasts a strong and beautiful design. The proprietary Flame technology enables it to withstand scorching temperatures up to 900°F, ensuring a well-baked crust with just the right amount of crispiness.
This versatile pizza stone can be used in various cooking environments, including conventional, convection, and gas ovens, as well as a broiler or even convert any BBQ grill into an instant outdoor pizza oven. The durable construction allows for direct cutting on the surface without scratching it, while the two integrated handles provide effortless carrying. For easy cleaning, the stone is dishwasher safe, but hand washing with soap and water is recommended to preserve its quality. Measuring 14.
5 inches in diameter, this beautiful piece not only produces a gourmet pizzeria-style pizza but also features an attractive smooth charcoal surface that will elevate your dining table’s ambiance. Emile Henry stands behind the quality of their product, offering a 10-year guarantee against manufacturing defects. With its impressive list of pros, including its high-quality construction, heat resistance, and versatility, this pizza stone is an excellent investment for any pizza enthusiast.
Heritage Products Pizza Stone
For pizza enthusiasts seeking restaurant-quality pies at home, the Heritage Products Pizza Stone is an excellent choice. This 15-inch black ceramic round stone boasts exceptional anti-crack and thermal-resistance properties, allowing it to withstand high temperatures of up to 500°F in gas or conventional ovens, grills, or BBQs. Its pre-heating capabilities are impressive, reaching twice the speed of other pizza stones and ensuring even heat distribution for crispy crusts and golden toppings.
The stone’s special non-stick glaze coating prevents pizzas from sticking, making removal a breeze and cleaning effortless. Plus, it’s odorless and smoke-free, filling your kitchen with savory aromas rather than unpleasant fumes. Its sleek design makes it perfect for serving at the dinner table. To sweeten the deal, the stone comes with a complimentary pizza cutter and is backed by a lifetime guarantee.
The Heritage Products Pizza Stone offers numerous advantages, including excellent quality, competitive pricing, rapid pre-heating, easy cleaning, non-stick surface, odorlessness, durability, even heat distribution, crispy crust creation, and thermal capacity. Its attractive black ceramic appearance makes it a stylish addition to any kitchen.
While some users may experience minor burn stains due to the stone’s black color, or observe slight cracking when introducing it to a cold oven, these drawbacks are relatively rare. Overall, this stone is an excellent investment for pizza lovers seeking top-notch results.
NerdChef Steel Stone
The NerdChef Steel Stone pizza stone stands out for its exceptional quality, precision-crafted from thick, unbreakable steel in the US. This premium product boasts unparalleled cooking performance, heating up to 20 times faster than ceramic stones and replicating the high-temperature atmosphere of a wood-fired oven. The result is a crispy crust, better blistering, and a gourmet-tasting pizza.
The stone’s textured surface has been seasoned with organic flaxseed oil for a natural, easy-release finish that allows pizzas to slide off effortlessly when cooked. Two finger holes facilitate easy maneuverability and transport, while the stone’s square shape measures 16 x 14.25 x 0.25 inches, accommodating family-sized pizzas. The NerdChef Steel Stone is incredibly versatile, compatible with all types of ovens, stovetops, induction cooktops, grills, and even campfires.
You can also use it to serve chilled desserts by placing ice underneath. However, be aware that this stone is extremely heavy at 16 pounds. Like cast iron, the NerdChef Steel Stone will develop a patina over time, requiring careful maintenance to prevent rust. It’s essential to keep the stone completely dry and avoid washing it with soap or detergent.
Pros: superior quality, excellent value for money, unparalleled cooking performance, premium solid steel construction, high durability, and guaranteed lifetime warranty. Cons: not dishwasher safe, requires special care to maintain its finish, extremely heavy, can develop rust if not kept dry, and may require longer preheat times.
Our Top Pick for the Best Pizza Stone
Our top recommendation for a superior pizza stone is the NerdChef Steel Stone. For an unparalleled gourmet pizza experience akin to wood-fired cooking, this exceptional baking stone is a must-have for any serious pizza enthusiast. Whether you’re looking to indulge in a solo Friday night pizza or cater to a crowd of hungry kids at a pool party, the NerdChef Steel Pizza Stone will consistently produce delectable pizzas and transform your home into a cozy Italian pizzeria.
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