Best Wood For Pizza Oven

Best Wood For Pizza Oven

Are you ready to start cooking delicious homemade pizzas in the comfort of your own home? With the right equipment, you can experience authentic wood-fired pizza just like at your favorite pizzeria. When it comes to backyard cooking, there is no better way to prepare delicious pizzas than with an outdoor pizza oven. Sure, you can get by with a grill or kitchen range but if you want true restaurant quality pizzas then a wood-burning pizza oven is the way to go. Of course, choosing what type of wood to burn in your pizza oven will have an impact on the flavor and texture of your pizzas – so make sure that you select the right kind.

In this blog post we will explore which types of wood are best for burning in a home-style pizza oven so that you can create fantastic tasting results every time. Also, discover how different types of firewood compare when used for traditional ovens versus newer gas or electric models, as well as tips on where to buy only certified sustainable woods. Read on to learn all about which type of firewood makes the perfect crust.

What is pizza oven?

A pizza oven is an oven specifically designed to bake pizzas. It is often made of brick, although modern pizzerias also use stainless steel or stone. The heat source can be wood, coal, gas or electricity, and the cooking environment is maintained at temperatures between 350 to 500 degrees Fahrenheit (177 to 260 Celsius). In a traditional Italian pizzeria, the pizzaiolo (pizza maker) will build the dough on a marble slab and then slide it onto a wooden peel before transferring it into the hot chamber of the oven. Depending on the type of pizza being baked, cooking times may range from just a few minutes up to 10-15 minutes. Pizza ovens are typically built with vents allowing smoke to escape as well as an opening where the pizzaiolo can check on their pizzas while they are cooking. Cooking with a pizza oven will create a crispier, smokier flavor than traditional home ovens, making it an ideal choice for those looking to replicate that restaurant-style experience at home.

A wood-fired pizza oven is still regarded as one of the best types of pizza ovens because it creates a unique flavor due to the intense heat and smoke produced during baking. The most important factor when choosing a wood-fired pizza oven is ventilation, as this will help reduce smoke from affecting your food. A good ventilated design and the use of high temperature fire bricks can also help maintain consistent heat throughout the cooking chamber for even baking results. Gas or electric pizza ovens are also popular options, as they offer a more consistent and controllable cooking environment. Electric pizza ovens in particular are well suited for indoor use due to their lack of smoke production and ease of use. No matter which type of pizza oven you choose, it’s important to consider the size and shape when selecting one for your home kitchen or pizzeria. The size should be based on the types of pizzas you plan to make and serve, while the shape will depend on the available space and desired aesthetic.

What is wood for a pizza oven?

Wood is the most traditional and popular fuel for pizza ovens. Wood has been used to fuel pizza ovens since their inception in ancient Rome, and it continues to be used today as a preferred choice for pizzerias and home kitchens alike. The intense heat produced when burning wood gives pizzas an unparalleled smoky flavor that can’t be achieved with other fuels. Hardwoods such as oak, maple, and hickory are commonly recommended due to their high level of energy content, while milder woods like cherry or apple can also work well. It’s important to note that wet or green wood should never be used to fuel a pizza oven as it produces too much smoke without enough heat. When starting your fire, kindling such as small pieces of wood, newspaper or dry leaves should be used until you have a good base of hot coals before adding larger logs. Once your fire is going and the oven has reached its desired temperature, pizzas can then be cooked directly on the hearth or inside the chamber for an even bake.

Wood-fired pizza ovens are known for creating unique flavor profiles that can’t be replicated with other fuel sources, making them the preferred choice for serious pizza aficionados. So, the process to choose the suitable wood for the pizza oven is extremely important.

What are some of the best woods for pizza oven?

As mentioned above, when using a pizza oven, choosing the best woods is significantly crucial. So, here are some of the best woods for a pizza oven.

1) Apple:

Since it gives meals a subtle taste, apple wood is a common choice. Not only does it improve the flavor of the pizza, but it also creates nearly little ash, allowing you to see clearly inside the oven while it cooks.

Apple wood is a hefty, solid variety that can be stored for a very long time without drying up. This alternative could be perfect for you if you don’t want to buy firewood at all because apple trees can thrive in a variety of climates, so you can even collect logs from your own backyard.

2) Oak:

One of the most popular types of wood for pizza ovens is oak. Local wood, if available, is often less priced because there are no transportation charges, making them even more cost-effective when compared to other sorts.

The ideal wood for a pizza oven is oak since it burns evenly and produces high flames with little smoke. Due to its ability to cook food without imparting a disagreeable flavor, wood is perfect for cooking meat as well as pastries and pizza.

Also, it only leaves little quantities of ash behind rather than bigger chunks like maple, which makes cleanup after cooking much simpler because just a rake is required instead of a broom or vacuum.

3) Cherry:

Cherry has a very subtle and sweet flavor that blends well with other pizza oven woods like maple or almond. Because it’s slow burning, as a result, people have plenty of chances to double-check on their results before having to add additional wood, which may be fantastic for creating pizza or baking bread.

Like apples, cherries are highly heavy and dense, making it much simpler to remain dry than other woods that are considerably lower in weight.

Cherry can be the greatest option for you if you’re seeking for a good fuel source that is both natural and simple to locate. Most backyards have this kind of wood, which also has the advantage of burning more slowly than most substitutes.

4) Hickory:

Hickory is an excellent choice for a pizza oven since it provides an intense heat without causing any off flavors.

This type of wood burns evenly and produces very little smoke, allowing you to observe the inner portion of your oven clearly while cooking. It also has a high BTU output (British Thermal Unit) which makes it ideal for getting the most out of your fire.

Plus, hickory will produce more coals than other woods which can be used as fuel sources in between pizzas or when starting up the fire.

Also, this type of wood provides a highly strong, smokey flavor that will convert skeptics into hickory aficionados in a matter of minutes. As the flavor of this kind of wood tends to get stronger with time, it should only be utilized for extended periods of time.

5) Oak leaf:

Nowadays, oak leaf has become more common for cooking in a pizza oven because of its low costs and easy to use much more compared to different kinds of woods.

This kind of firewood is dense and burns slowly, enabling it to develop plenty of heat while leaving little ash behind.

The smoke produced is usually mild but still provides a good flavor to anything cooked in the oven. Plus, oak leaf produces no sparks when burned which can be beneficial when cooking in an enclosed space like a pizza oven.

Although this leaf is regarded as being of inferior quality, it can be bought in large quantities for a low cost, making it perfect for those who are new to burning firewood frequently or are on a very limited budget.

6) Almond:

Almond is another great type of wood that has been used for years to make pizzas. This wood has a sweeter, almost fruity aroma that can give your pizza an extra special touch.

Due to its slow burning rate, this kind of wood does not produce too much smoke and gives off an even heat throughout which makes it perfect for cooking at lower temperatures.

Also, almond burns longer than most other woods and produces plenty of coals which are ideal for creating additional heat when required as well as providing a smoky flavor while baking bread or roasting meats.  It’s also one of the cleaner sorts since it doesn’t leave much ash after burning.

Overall, almond is one of the most dependable and versatile firewood choices available and is perfect for those who are looking to get the most out of their pizza oven. For anyone wanting a natural flavor, this type of wood should definitely be given consideration.

7) Maple:

The next one must mention is maple, which has been around for centuries and is still a popular choice when it comes to pizza oven wood.

The sweet smell of maple can fill up your kitchen while cooking and make your pizzas taste even better.

Maple burns at low temperatures and produces an intense heat that will help you get the desired results faster.

This type of wood also has long-lasting coals that are great for keeping the flame going until the end of the baking process. Plus, maple doesn’t produce many sparks or smoke so you won’t have to worry about having any unpleasant odors in your house after using it.

8) Mesquite tree:

Additionally, mesquite tree is another great choice that has been used in pizza ovens for a long time. Mesquite provides excellent results and is one of the most reliable types of wood when it comes to creating delicious meals in a pizza oven.

Mesquite tree burns slowly while releasing an incredible flavor that can take your pizzas to the next level.

The wood also leaves behind plenty of coals which makes it great for keeping the fire going no matter how long you’re cooking for. Plus, this type of wood doesn’t create too much smoke or sparks, making it safe and easy to use in an enclosed space like a pizza oven without causing any problems.

Moreover, mesquite tree is fantastic for you if you enjoy preparing smoked meats since it burns hot and slowly, giving you plenty of time to cook your meat to perfection before feeding it to your family.

9) Locust Tree:

In actuality, the hardest type of wood is locust, making it challenging to ignite, tough to maintain a flame, and brittle once ignited.

If you do decide to utilize locust, the easiest method to overcome these drawbacks is to mix around 20% of it with other types of wood, such as oak or hickory bark, before combining the two in your fire pit.

The locust logs will burn more slowly and have a higher chance of staying lit if you do this.

Although being a fairly tough wood, locust tree wood creates tremendous heat that lasts for hours, making it ideal for pizza ovens. Also, this kind of wood produces less smoke and sparks, making it risk-free to use in confined places like a pizza oven.

10) Sycamore tree:

Due to the quantity of non-pith inside each log, sycamore burns quickly but will survive longer than the majority of woods on the list.

Sycamore is a fantastic fuel choice because of its density if you need food fast or you have a big family that has to be fed.

If there are sycamore trees nearby, you may buy this kind of wood at a reasonable price to reduce your monthly expenses. When burned, it releases a strong perfume that can remain inside the air for several hours.

11) Elderberry tree:

The next type of wood that is great for pizza ovens is the elderberry tree. Elderberry tree burns slowly and steadily, producing a deep and intense heat with a smoky aroma.

It also produces less smoke compared to other types of wood, minimizing your exposure to harmful emissions when cooking your pizzas.

Plus, this type of wood helps preserve flavor, allowing you to experience all the different flavors of your favorite ingredients in every bite. With its low cost, it’s an amazing choice for anyone who wants to cook delicious pies without breaking their budget!

12) Fruit woods:

Finally, fruit woods like cherry, apple, and peach can also be used in pizza ovens. These types of wood create a subtle and flavorful smoke that enhances the taste of your food.

It burns slowly but steadily, making it ideal for those who have to feed their families quickly but don’t want to compromise on flavor. Plus, these woods are usually less expensive than other types of wood so you won’t have to worry about spending too much money just to enjoy delicious pies.

So, there are many types of wood available for use in pizza ovens. Depending on the type of flavor profile you’re looking for, each type has its own benefits and drawbacks. Some provide intense heat for faster cooking times while others create a subtle and flavorful smoke for enhancing the taste of the food. Ultimately, the decision is up to you to choose which type best suits your needs. With careful consideration and research on each option, you can find the perfect wood for your pizza oven.

Can any wood be used in a pizza oven?

The answer is no. Not all types of wood are suitable for use in pizza ovens. Hardwoods such as oak, hickory, and mesquite provide the best heat source and burn slowest to give you the most control over your cooking temperatures. Softwoods like pine or spruce should be avoided as they create too much smoke, release more sparks that could cause a fire hazard, and can sometimes impart unpleasant flavors onto the food. For maximum safety and flavor, it’s best to stick with hardwood varieties when using a pizza oven.

FAQs

What are a few advantages of using wood-fired pizza ovens for cooking?

Cooking with wood-fire pizza ovens has many benefits.

First, it provides an intense heat that can reach up to 900°F, allowing for a faster and more even cooking of your pizzas.

Second, the wood smoke adds a unique flavor to the food which can not be achieved with other types of ovens. The smoky aroma from burning hardwood also creates an inviting atmosphere in the kitchen.

Finally, wood-fired pizza ovens are energy efficient because they require little to no preheating time. This means you spend less energy and save money on electricity bills while still achieving great results with your pizzas.

What types of woods are not used as firewood?

Woods that are too soft, such as pine or spruce, should be avoided since they create a lot of smoke and can impart an unpleasant flavor onto the food.

Other woods not suited for firewood include willow, poplar, and elm. These woods can ignite quickly and burn up quickly. They also produce more sparks when burned which could cause a fire hazard.

Lastly, any wood treated with chemicals or paint should never be used. The best types of wood to use in firewood are hardwoods such as oak, hickory, maple, mesquite, apple and cherry. These woods burn slowly and evenly providing you with a long-lasting heat source for your pizza oven.

What are some things to consider when choosing woods for pizza ovens?

When choosing wood for pizza ovens, there are several factors to consider.

First, the type of wood should be sturdy and hard such as oak, hickory, or mesquite. These woods burn slower and create a more consistent heat source.

Second, you’ll want to select wood that is dry and free from chemicals or paint. This will ensure that your food isn’t contaminated by any toxins.

Finally, make sure you choose woods that have been properly stored so that they don’t release too much smoke in the process of burning. This will help keep your pizzas from becoming smoky-tasting rather than delicious and flavorful.

Overall, with careful consideration and research on each option, you can find the perfect wood for your pizza oven.

What is the best place to get wood for pizza ovens?

The best place to buy wood for pizza ovens is a local hardwood supplier. Many of these companies will have seasoned and dry firewood in various sizes and types, such as oak, hickory, or mesquite. The wood should be free from chemicals and paint to ensure that your food isn’t contaminated by any toxins. You can also find wood for sale online from specialty vendors who ship the wood directly to you. However, it’s important to note that this type of wood may not be as fresh or well-stocked as what you would find at a local supplier. Whichever option you choose, make sure you are buying quality woods that are suitable for use in pizza ovens. 

In case you want to buy online, it is recommended to buy from a local supplier or online retailers such as Amazon. Make sure to read reviews and descriptions carefully before making a purchase so you can be sure of its quality and origin.

What about the prices of wood for pizza ovens?

The price of wood for pizza ovens varies depending on the type and size of the wood. Generally, hardwoods such as oak and hickory tend to be more expensive than softer woods like pine or spruce. Prices can range anywhere from $5 to $20 per bundle or split log, depending on the supplier and type of wood. It’s important to shop around and compare prices in order to get the best deal. Additionally, buying larger bundles or split logs will generally cost less since you’ll buy fewer pieces overall. 

Conclusion 

The best wood for pizza ovens are hardwoods such as oak, hickory, maple, mesquite, apple, cherry, etc. These woods burn slowly and evenly providing you with a long-lasting heat source for your pizza oven. The intense heat from these woods can reach up to 900°F which allows for a faster and more even cooking of your pizzas. Additionally, the unique smoky aroma created by burning hardwood adds great flavor to food that cannot be achieved with other types of ovens. When shopping for firewood make sure to purchase quality pieces that are dry and free from chemicals or paint in order to ensure that your food isn’t contaminated. So, be sure to do your research and compare prices to get the best deal. With proper selection of wood, you can guarantee a delicious pizza every time with your wood-fired oven. 

References:

How to Make a Brick Oven (with Pictures) – wikiHow

Masonry oven – Wikipedia

The 1-Hour Brick Oven

Wood-Fired Pizza Ovens