Essential Pizza-Making Tools
It’s tool time..! 🛠️
Welcome to Behind The Crust - Good to have you here..!
Whether you’re just starting out or have been making pies for years, having the right tools in your kitchen is essential for creating that perfect slice.
In this article, we’ll explore the must-have pizza-making tools that will take your homemade pizzas to the next level. Let’s turn your kitchen into a pizzeria that would impress even the most discerning Italian nonna! Ready?
Let’s dough it..!
Digital Scale
When it comes to pizza-making, a digital scale is one tool that separates the pros from the casuals. Unlike measuring cups, which can vary in accuracy, a digital scale ensures precise measurements every single time.
Why does this matter?
Because pizza dough is a science, too much flour, and you’ll end up with a dense, tough crust; too little, and you risk a sticky mess. With a scale, you can nail down the ideal flour-to-water ratio, achieving that perfect balance of chewiness and crispiness.
In short, if you’re serious about making consistently great pizza, a digital scale is non-negotiable.
Dough Mixer
Sure, you could knead dough by hand like some peasant from the Dark Ages, or… you could join the 21st century and get a dough mixer.
Dough mixers, especially spiral mixers, ensure consistent gluten development and help maintain optimal dough temperature, which is crucial for a great rise. Spiral mixers are the cool kids on the block, keeping your dough chillier than a morgue.
For smaller batches this one is currently doing the job for me.
If you want to go pro or bake larger number of pizzas regularly I can recommend the classic Kitchen Aid or the Kenwood which I used quite often at my brother’s.
Those two mixers have more than enough power to handle more than two balls easily.. 😆
You still insist a dough mixer is not for you? Check out this no-knead dough recipe and thank me later. ☺️
Dough Proofing Containers
Letting your dough rise on the counter is like letting a teenager loose in Vegas.. unpredictable and potentially disastrous. Dough proofing containers might not seem essential at first, but they’re a game-changer for anyone serious about pizza-making. These containers create the ideal environment for dough to rise, allowing you to monitor its expansion with precision. Unlike a random bowl, a proofing container ensures consistent shape and volume, helping maintain the dough’s structure and texture. Plus, they’re stackable and airtight, keeping the dough from drying out or picking up any fridge odors. If you’re after that airy, well-fermented dough with perfect elasticity, a dedicated proofing container is more than worth it.
Pizza Dough Spatula
A pizza dough spatula is a versatile tool that often flies under the radar but is incredibly useful in the pizza-making process. Unlike a traditional bench scraper, a pizza dough spatula is typically longer and thinner, making it perfect for gently lifting and handling delicate dough without causing it to tear or stretch. It's also great for scraping the sides of bowls and folding ingredients into your dough. Whether you're transferring dough to a floured surface, folding it during proofing, or simply scraping down your mixing bowl, a pizza dough spatula is a handy companion that helps keep your workspace tidy and your dough intact. Its flexibility and precision make it an indispensable addition to any pizza enthusiast's toolkit.
Dough and Bench Scraper
While both bench scrapers and dough scrapers are invaluable in pizza-making, each has its own unique role. A bench scraper, typically made from a flat, sturdy piece of metal with a handle, is the go-to tool for dividing dough, scraping surfaces, and even transporting ingredients across the countertop. Its sharp, flat edge allows for clean cuts and precise portioning, which is essential when working with multiple dough balls. A dough scraper, on the other hand, a dough scraper is usually softer and curved, perfect for scooping sticky dough from mixing bowls without tearing it. In essence, while a dough scraper is ideal for working within a bowl, a bench scraper shines on the countertop, giving you control and efficiency in shaping and managing your dough. Together, they make a seamless team in the art of pizza-making.
When Your Kitchen Oven Just Can't Cut It..
Pizza Stone or Steel
Let's face it.. your home oven is about as hot as a snowman's armpit compared to a proper pizza oven. ☃️
That's where a pizza stone or steel comes into play. These tools effectively retain and distribute heat, mimicking the high temperatures of a pizza oven to ensure even cooking.
I used this pizza stone before I bought my Ooni pizza oven, and it delivered great results at a low cost.
Pizza steels, in particular, conduct heat faster and more efficiently, giving you a better oven spring and resulting in a crust so crispy it'll make your teeth sing. I got this one for those rainy indoor baking days when I can’t use my Ooni gas-fired oven.
Gas-Fired Oven
If you're serious about pizza (and let's face it, why else would you be reading this?), a gas-fired oven is your ticket to pizza heaven.
These ovens can reach temperatures of around 500°C, allowing you to cook your pizza in just a few minutes, resulting in a perfect balance of crispy crust and melty toppings.
I use the Koda 12 from Ooni since almost a year now and I couldn’t be happier with the results. 🤌🏻🍕
Wood-Fired Oven
For the purists and pyromaniacs among us, nothing beats a wood-fired oven. It'll give your pizza a slightly smoky flavor that'll make your taste buds do the Macarena.
Wood-fired ovens can reach extremely high temperatures, which helps achieve that perfect leopard-spotting on the crust while cooking your pizza in just 60 - 90 seconds.
Plus, there's something primal about cooking with fire—just try not to burn down the neighborhood, okay? 🔥🪵🏡
Infrared Thermometer
Want to know if your pizza stone or oven is hot enough for the perfect bake? An infrared thermometer is your best friend. It provides an accurate reading of the surface temperature, ensuring everything is preheated properly for that ideal crispy crust and great oven spring.
It's like having X-ray vision for heat, minus the superpowers and spandex. 🦸🏻♀️
Pizza Peel
You wouldn't go into battle without a shield, so don't face a scorching oven without a pizza peel..!
Wooden peels are less sticky, making them ideal for launching pizzas smoothly. Metal peels, on the other hand, are perfect for retrieving your masterpiece from the oven due to their slick surface.
Which one to choose?
This is all about preference.. I currently use this perforated metal peel which helps to get rid of some excess flour on the bottom of your pizza to reduce the burned flavor.
Turning Peel
For when you need to pull a 180 on your pizza quickly and efficiently. A turning peel lets you rotate your pie while in the oven to ensure even cooking, without performing culinary acrobatics.
This helps achieve consistent browning on all sides, giving you that perfect, evenly baked crust.
Pizza Oven Brush
A pizza oven brush is an essential tool for keeping your oven clean and running efficiently. Whether you're using a wood-fired or gas-fired oven, debris and burnt remnants can build up quickly.
A good oven brush, ideally with brass bristles and a scraper, helps you sweep away ash and burnt flour, keeping your cooking surface clean and ensuring your pizzas cook evenly.
The Supporting Cast
Wooden Board
A wooden board is a great surface for prepping your pizza dough and toppings. The natural texture of wood helps prevent dough from sticking, making it ideal for shaping and stretching dough without too much hassle. Plus, it doubles as a rustic serving board when your pizza is ready. A sturdy wooden board is versatile and adds an authentic touch to your pizza-making experience.
Pizza Cutter
Unless you enjoy tearing your pizza apart like a ravenous wolverine, invest in a good pizza cutter. Choose between a classic wheel or a rocking blade, both designed to give you clean, even slices without disturbing your toppings.
I prefere a blade cutter for that pizzaiolo feel.. Either way, you'll be slicing through your creation like a hot knife through butter—or, more accurately, a sharp blade through molten cheese.
Food Processor
Not just for making baby food or hiding evidence (just kidding, FBI 🚨), a food processor is great for prepping toppings and quickly grating cheese. It's like having a sous chef who doesn't talk back or steal your beer. Plus, it ensures consistency and saves time, making your pizza prep smoother and more efficient.
Stainless Steel Bowls
Stainless steel bowls are an essential tool for any serious pizza maker. They are perfect for mixing ingredients, proofing dough, and even serving toppings.
Stainless steel is lightweight, durable, and easy to clean, making it a practical choice for all your pizza prep needs. Having a set of different sizes will make your workflow smoother and more organized.
Squeeze Bottles
Squeeze bottles are an underrated yet incredibly useful tool for pizza making. They allow you to evenly distribute sauces, oils, or drizzles over your pizza with precision. Whether you're adding a touch of garlic oil to the crust or drizzling balsamic reduction over your finished masterpiece, squeeze bottles give you better control and help keep your presentation on point. They're easy to clean and reuse, making them a handy addition to your pizza toolkit.
Microplane Grater
A microplane grater is a must-have for adding the perfect finishing touch to your pizzas. It's great for grating hard cheeses like Parmesan or Pecorino directly onto your pizza, giving you that extra burst of flavor.
You can also use it for zesting citrus or grating garlic, adding a fresh twist to your toppings. A microplane grater is easy to use, and incredibly versatile—definitely worth having in your pizza-making toolkit.
Final Slice
Investing in quality equipment can elevate your homemade pizzas to restaurant-level quality. Specialized ovens, such as gas or wood-fired options, can further enhance your results by providing higher temperatures and unique flavors. But above all, practice and passion are the most important ingredients for creating awesome pizzas at home.
Remember, a poor craftsman blames his tools, but a smart pizza maker invests in the right ones. With these essentials, you'll be cranking out pizzas so good, your friends will think you sold your soul to the pizza devil.
Did I miss any tool you think is crucial? Let me know!
So get that oven on and bake something tasty!
Stay cheesy,
Filippo
🍕What other topics are you interested in? Drop me a line to let me know!