Have you ever bitten into a piece of pizza only to have the toppings slide right off the dough into the box below? Or perhaps the crust was soggy and chewy instead of crispy on the outside.
If any of this sounds familiar then it’s time to stop making that homemade pizza on your baking sheet and start using a pizza stone.
In this blog post, I’ll show you how to use a pizza stone, the benefits of using it, and share my foolproof technique for getting perfectly cooked pizza every time. By the time you finish reading, you’ll be eager to dust off that pizza stone hiding in the back of your cabinet!
What Is a Pizza Stone?
A pizza stone, also known as a baking stone, is a flat and circular slab made from various materials such as ceramic, clay, or cordierite. It is designed to mimic the cooking surface of traditional brick ovens used in pizzerias.
Pizza stones come in a variety of shapes and sizes, making it easy to find one that fits your personal oven and cooking needs.
A pizza stone works by absorbing and distributing heat evenly throughout its surface to prevent hot spots in the oven. The porous nature of the stone also helps to absorb excess moisture from the dough, resulting in a crispier crust.
What Are The Different Types Of Pizza Stone?
Next, let’s talk about the different types of pizza stones that are available in the market. While all pizza stones work similarly, they can differ in their materials and capabilities.
1. Ceramic Or Clay Pizza Stones
Ceramic or clay pizza stones are popular for their ability to evenly distribute heat and mimic the cooking environment of an authentic brick oven.
These stones are excellent for baking at a high temperature. However, they tend to be more fragile and can crack if not preheated properly.
2. Cordierite Pizza Stones
Cordierite pizza stones are known for their durability and resistance to thermal shock, making them a robust choice for frequent pizza makers.
These stones can withstand extremely high temperatures which is perfect for achieving pizzeria-quality crusts. They’re also less porous than ceramic, requiring less maintenance.
3. Cast Iron Pizza Stones
Unlike traditional pizza stones, cast iron pizza “stones” are heavy-duty and provide unique benefits such as faster heating and the ability to season like other cast-iron cookware.
4. Steel Pizza Stones
Steel pizza stones are a modern alternative to traditional stones. These metal surfaces are excellent at conducting heat, often resulting in faster cooking times and impressively uniform heat distribution.
They are virtually indestructible, making them a one-time investment for many.
5. Soapstone Pizza Stones
Soapstone pizza stones offer natural non-stick properties and retain heat well, providing an even cook. They are typically thicker, which allows for a consistent temperature during the cooking process.
Soapstone is also a beautiful material, which some users appreciate for its aesthetic appeal as well as its functionality.
Regardless of the type of pizza stone you choose, they all have one thing in common – they enhance the overall quality and taste of your homemade pizza.
How To Use a Pizza Stone Properly?
Now let me tell you how to use a pizza stone. It is very simple, but it requires some precautions.
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven With The Pizza Stone Inside
Place your pizza stone in the oven before preheating it. This will allow the stone to heat up gradually and prevent it from cracking due to sudden temperature changes.
Step 2: Prepare Your Dough
As the oven heats up, prepare the pizza dough using the directions on the desired recipe.
Step 3: Dust The Stone With Cornmeal Or Flour
Sprinkle some cornmeal or flour on the surface of the pizza stone before placing the dough on top. This will prevent the dough from sticking and also add extra texture to the bottom crust.
Step 4: Transfer The Pizza To The Stone
Carefully place your prepared dough onto the heated pizza stone using a pizza peel or spatula.
Step 5: Bake According To Your Recipe
Follow the recommended baking time and temperature for your pizza recipe. The average baking time for a 12-inch pizza is around 10-15 minutes at 450-500 degrees Fahrenheit.
Step 6: Remove The Pizza Using a Pizza Peel
When your pizza is cooked, carefully take it from the stone onto a cutting board using a pizza peel. Let it rest for a couple of minutes, then cut into slices and serve.
By following the simple steps outlined above, you can achieve perfectly cooked pizza every time with that classic crispy crust and deliciously melted toppings.
Why Should We Use a Pizza Stone?
We should use a pizza stone for numerous reasons, from achieving the perfect crust to evenly heating your pizza. Here are some of the top benefits of using a pizza stone:
1. Crispier Crust: As mentioned earlier, the porous surface of a pizza stone helps to absorb moisture from the dough resulting in a crispier crust.
2. Indeed Heat Distribution: A pizza stone helps to evenly distribute heat throughout the surface, preventing hot spots and ensuring that your pizza cooks consistently.
3. Pizzeria-Quality Taste: By mimicking the cooking style of traditional brick ovens, using a pizza stone can give your homemade pizza that authentic pizzeria taste.
4. Versatility: Pizza stones can be used for more than just pizza. They are also great for baking other types of bread, pastries, and even cookies.
5. Easy To Clean: Pizza stones are easy to clean as they only require a quick wipe down with a damp cloth after use. This also prevents any buildup of leftover food or grease.
Tips You Should Know When Cooking With a Pizza Stone
To ensure success in your culinary endeavors, it’s important to master a few key tips on how to use a pizza stone effectively.
1. Do Not Use Oils or Fats: Applying oils or fats directly on your pizza stone can cause it to smoke and create stains that are difficult to remove. Stick to dusting cornmeal or flour for a non-stick surface.
2. Avoid Sudden Temperature Changes: Always allow your pizza stone to warm up in the oven. Placing a cold stone in a hot oven can cause thermal shock and lead to cracks.
3. Preheat The Stone Properly: For the crispiest crust, preheat your stone for at least 30 minutes to an hour before cooking. This ensures the stone is at the optimal temperature for baking.
4. Keep The Stone Clean: After use, let the stone cool down naturally before cleaning. Avoid using soap or detergent as they can seep into the stone. Instead, scrape off any baked-on food with a spatula or brush.
5. Store It Safely: Store your pizza stone in the oven or in a safe spot where it won’t be at risk of being dropped or damaged. Some even recommend keeping it in the oven permanently to create an even baking environment for other dishes.
By adhering to these guidelines, you’ll extend the life of your pizza stone and consistently produce delectable pizzas that are the envy of any pizza aficionado.
How To Clean Your Pizza Stone?
Cleaning your pizza stone is a simple process, but it’s important to note that you should never use soap or detergent on the stone as it can absorb the residue and affect the taste of your future pizzas.
Here’s how to clean your pizza stone:
1. Allow The Stone To Cool Completely: Before attempting to clean your pizza stone, it’s crucial to let it cool down to room temperature after use. Rapid temperature changes can cause the stone to crack or break, so patience is key.
2. Scrape Off Any Excess Food: Using a spatula or a blunt knife, gently scrape off any stuck-on pieces of food. Be careful not to gouge the stone as you remove excess debris.
3. Wipe With A Damp Cloth: Gently wipe the stone with a damp cloth to remove any remaining debris or residue.
4. Dry Completely: Once you have wiped the stone down, leave it out to dry completely. This can be done by placing it in the oven at a low temperature or simply by leaving it in an open space with good air circulation.
5. Season The Stone: Over time, the surface of your pizza stone may become discolored or absorb odors. To refresh it, simply sprinkle some flour on the stone and heat it in the oven for 15 minutes at a high temperature.
Remember not to soak your stone or expose it to soaps or detergents, as this can alter the taste of your pizza and potentially harm the stone!
Conclusion
In conclusion, now you know how to use a pizza stone. Pizza stones are a versatile and convenient tool for enhancing the taste and texture of your homemade pizzas, bread, and other dishes.
Not only do they provide a crispy crust and even heat distribution, but they are also easy to clean and can be used for various types of cooking.
So why not give it a try and elevate your homemade pizzas to the next level with the help of a trusty pizza stone? Happy cooking!