3 Best Pizza Stones for Crispy Crusts in 2026
For the crispiest crusts in 2026, I recommend the Arcedo 16-Inch Pizza Stone, Unicook 16 Inch Round Pizza Stone, and Old Stone 16-Inch Pizza Stone. These use durable cordierite or ceramic blends, heat evenly, and can handle oven temps of 500°F+—perfect for bakery-quality results. They preheat in 45-60 minutes and retain heat well for a crispy, golden crust. If you want to master your pizza game, stick around; there’s more to uncover.
Arcedo 16-Inch Pizza Stone for Oven
- ARCEDO PIZZA STONE FOR OVEN - This 16" Dia pizza stone is a superior alternative to traditional...
- HIGHLY RESISTANT - Made from high-quality cordierite material, this grill pizza stone is highly...
- CORDIERITE PIZZA STONE ROUND - The porous structure of cordierite material allows it to absorb...
- OVEN STONE FOR BAKING BREAD - Arcedo baking stone for bread is perfect for use in indoor ovens,...
- CLEANING METHOD - Cleaning cordierite bread baking stone is easy and hassle-free, but it's important...
If you want a crispy, restaurant-quality crust at home, the Arcedo 16-Inch Pizza Stone for Oven is a good choice. It is made from high-quality cordierite, which resists thermal shock. The stone can handle temperatures up to 500°F without cracking. Its porous material absorbs moisture from the dough, helping to prevent sogginess. This creates a lighter, crispier crust. With a 16-inch diameter, it is versatile enough for pizza, bread, and other baked goods. The stone weighs about 9.63 pounds. This weight helps it stay in place during baking. Cleaning takes time because of its dense material. Some users may notice a slight initial odor or smell. Heating the stone properly will improve results and reduce odors.
Best For: home bakers and pizza fans who want professional-quality crispy crusts. It is ideal for those needing a durable, high-temperature pizza stone that works for various baked goods.
Pros:
- Maintains heat well for consistent, crispy results
- Made from durable, thermal shock-resistant cordierite, up to 500°F
- Absorbs moisture to prevent soggy crusts
Cons:
- Heavy at about 9.63 pounds, requiring effort to handle
- Needs careful cleaning and patience due to its dense material
- May have an initial odor that disappears over time or with proper heating
This pizza stone combines durability and heat retention, making it a solid tool for baking crispy pizzas and more.
Unicook 16 Inch Round Pizza Stone for Oven and Grill
- Durable Construction: Unicook pizza stone is made of all natural Cordierite, sintered in 2100°F...
- Secret of Super Crisp Crust Pizza: Full of invisible micro-pores which draw out moisture from dough,...
- Multi-functional Pizza Stone: 16 inch round pizza stone has golden thickness 0.57"(14.5mm), weight...
- Plastic Scraper: A multi-purpose plastic scraper is a bonus which can be used as a dough cutter or...
- WARNING: Never use soap or detergent to clean the stone! Never season Cordierite bread stone with...
The Unicook 16-inch Round Pizza Stone is a reliable choice for making high-quality pizzas at home or on the grill. It is made from sturdy Cordierite material, which can withstand temperatures up to 1450°F without cracking. The micro-pores in the stone help heat evenly and absorb moisture from the dough, resulting in crispy crusts. This pizza stone weighs about 7.4 pounds, making it stable during use. Preheat the stone for at least one hour before baking for best results. It works well in both ovens and grills, giving you flexibility for different cooking setups.
Best for: Home cooks and grill lovers who want crispy, restaurant-style pizza with even baking.
Pros:
- Made from durable Cordierite that handles high heat up to 1450°F
- Micro-pores promote even heat and moisture absorption
- Suitable for oven and grill use, offering versatility
Cons:
- Weighs approximately 7.4 pounds, so handle carefully
- Requires at least one hour of preheating
- Cleaning is simple but needs avoiding soap, detergents, or scrubbing hot surfaces
Old Stone Round Pizza Stone, 16-Inch
- Makes restaurant quality pizzas, bread, pastries and vegetables
- Durable, non-cracking; crafted from a blend of lead-free clays
- Absorbs oven heat and transfers it evenly.Do not clean the stone with soap
- Recommended for up to 500 degrees in a standard home oven
The Old Stone Round Pizza Stone, 16-Inch, helps you make crispy, restaurant-quality pizzas at home. It is made from a strong, lead-free clay mix. The stone resists cracking even after many uses. It has a 16-inch size that fits most standard ovens. The stone heats up to 500°F, evenly transferring heat to your crust. This results in a crispy, evenly cooked pizza crust without burning. Clean the stone by wiping it or letting it cool before scraping. Do not use soap on it. Its natural clay properties help you get consistent, great results every time.
Best For: Home cooks and pizza lovers who want easy, crispy pizzas and baked goods.
Pros:
- Cooks evenly for a crisp, professional look
- Made from durable, lead-free clay that resists cracking
- Handles temperatures up to 500°F, suitable for various recipes
Cons:
- Needs careful handling to prevent breaking, especially when hot or cold
- Cannot be cleaned with soap; clean by wiping or scraping
- Heavy to move or store easily
This pizza stone makes it simple to create tasty, crispy pizzas with consistent results, right in your kitchen.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Pizza Stone for Crispy Crusts
When picking a pizza stone for that perfect crispy crust, you need to consider factors like material durability, which impacts how long it’ll last through high-temperature heats, and heat retention, ensuring your crust crisps evenly without sogginess. Size and shape matter too—an 16-inch round stone often provides enough surface area, but a thicker one will hold heat better, though it may be harder to handle. Finally, don’t overlook how easy it is to clean or whether it tolerates the intense oven temperatures, because a stone that crumbles or develops stubborn stains just isn’t worth the effort.
Material Durability
Choosing a pizza stone that can handle high heat depends on the material’s durability. Materials like cordierite or ceramic blends tolerate oven temperatures of 500°F or more without cracking. Sintered cordierite is especially strong and resists chipping and breaking even after many uses. The ability to withstand rapid temperature changes, called thermal shock resistance, is important. Quick heating or cooling can damage less durable stones. Denser materials transfer heat more evenly, helping you achieve a crispy crust every time. Look for stones with consistent quality and composition. Cheaper stones often do not last in the heat and may crack or break easily.
Heat Retention Capacity
A pizza stone keeps heat well, which is key to getting crispy crusts. When the stone retains heat, it stays hot even when you open the oven. This steady heat prevents the crust from becoming soggy. Stones made from cordierite or clay are good because they hold heat strongly. Thicker stones, about 1 to 1.5 inches thick, can store more heat. Preheat the stone for at least 45 minutes to warm it completely. This helps it absorb as much heat as possible. When the stone is hot enough, it helps bake the pizza evenly and gives the crust a crispy edge. If you don’t preheat properly, the pizza may bake unevenly or have a soggy bottom. Proper heat retention makes a big difference in achieving that perfect crispy crust you want.
Size and Shape
The size and shape of your pizza stone are important. A proper size helps you get a crispy crust. Most stones are 12 to 16 inches in diameter. Round stones heat evenly, giving a consistent crust. Larger stones, like 14 or 16 inches, let you bake bigger pizzas or cook multiple pizzas at once. Thicker stones, about 0.6 inches thick, keep heat longer and make the crust crispier. The shape also affects how easily you can put the pizza in and take it out of the oven. A well-chosen size and shape help make your pizza consistent and reduce frustration during baking.
Temperature Tolerance
For a crispy pizza crust, the temperature tolerance of your pizza stone matters. Choose a stone that can handle high heat, ideally up to 500°F or more. If the temperature is too low, the stone may crack during baking. Materials like cordierite or ceramic resist heat well and absorb shocks. Some outdoor grill stones can withstand over 1450°F, giving you extra options. Always check the manufacturer’s maximum temperature. Using a stone within its temperature limit prevents safety issues and damage. Preheat the stone at high heat before baking. This helps it stabilize and creates a crisp crust. Avoid using a stone that cannot handle your oven’s highest temperature.
Ease of Cleaning
Cleaning pizza stones can be easy if you understand their materials and proper methods. Porous stones, like cordierite, resist staining because they do not absorb residues deeply. Use a plastic scraper or soft brush to remove stuck-on food. Avoid harsh soaps, as they can leave residues and damage the stone. Always let the stone cool completely before cleaning. Cooling prevents cracks and makes cleaning easier. Choose stones with smooth surfaces. These require less scrubbing and save time. Proper cleaning keeps the pizza stone in good condition. A clean stone produces better pizza and makes cleaning simpler. Use these tips for less messy and more fun pizza nights.
Preheating Requirements
Getting a crispy, evenly baked pizza crust depends on preheating your pizza stone properly. Preheat the oven with the stone inside for at least 30 minutes. The goal is to heat the stone to a temperature between 500°F and 1450°F, depending on your oven or grill. Proper preheating helps distribute heat evenly across the crust. This even heat prevents soggy spots and uneven cooking. Skipping this step can cause the pizza to cook unevenly or become soggy. A slow, steady warm-up avoids cracking or damaging the stone. Rushing this process often results in undercooked pizza. Taking the time to preheat properly makes a big difference. It helps you produce a crispy, bakery-quality pizza every time.
Multi-use Compatibility
Choosing a multi-use pizza stone involves more than just placing it in your oven. Look for a stone that works in indoor ovens, outdoor grills, and campfires. It should handle high temperatures, up to 1450°F, so you can use gas, charcoal, or electric heat sources. The stone must resist thermal shocks, so sudden temperature changes won’t crack it. A portable or adjustable design makes switching between cooking methods easier. A versatile stone can be used for pizza, bread, pastries, and roasted vegetables. When choosing, focus on versatility, heat resistance, and ease of handling. These features will help you make the most of your cooking adventures.
Cost and Value
Investing in a pizza stone involves comparing cost, features, and durability. Cheap, low-quality stones made of thin ceramic do not provide a crispy crust and may break easily. Higher-quality stones retain heat better and last longer. They help you bake more evenly and improve the final result, saving you money over time. When choosing a stone, look at its size, material, and heat resistance. Some stones include extras like scrapers or warranties, which add value. A more expensive, well-made stone costs more upfront, but it helps you get consistent, delicious crusts. This reduces waste and avoids disappointment. Picking the right stone means finding a durable tool that improves your homemade pizza while staying within your budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do I Clean and Maintain My Pizza Stone?
You should let your pizza stone cool completely, then scrub off any residue with a brush or scraper. Avoid soap, and occasional oven baking helps remove stubborn stains, keeping your stone in great shape for perfect crispy pizzas every time.
Can I Use My Pizza Stone on a Gas or Electric Grill?
Yes, you can use your pizza stone on a gas or electric grill. Just preheat the grill to the right temperature, place the stone carefully, and watch for any temperature fluctuations to avoid cracking.
How Do I Prevent My Pizza From Sticking?
To prevent your pizza from sticking, spray or brush the pizza stone with oil, use a well-floured pizza peel, and make certain your dough is not too wet. Preheat the stone thoroughly for better release.
What Is the Ideal Oven Temperature for a Crispy Crust?
You should preheat your oven to 475°F to 500°F for a crispy crust. High heat helps the pizza cook quickly and evenly, giving you that perfect crunch. Use a pizza stone or baking steel for best results.
How Long Does a Typical Pizza Stone Last?
A typical pizza stone lasts around 1 to 3 years, depending on use and care. You’ll extend its life by avoiding drastic temperature changes, cleaning properly, and not exceeding recommended heating times. Proper maintenance helps it stay durable.
Hi there! I’m Lilith Smith, the heart and hands behind getrecipes.blog . Cooking has always been my greatest passion, and through this blog, I get to share that love with all of you. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or an adventurous new dish from across the globe, I pour my creativity into every recipe I create