Nothing says fun like making your favorite pizza at home. But if you want to achieve that authentic wood-fired pizza taste, you need the best pizza peel. This tool allows you to transfer the prepared pizza from your countertop inside your oven onto a hot pizza stone to ensure a crispy crust.
The peel comes with a flat paddle to hold the pizza and a long handle to prevent accidentally burning yourself. Sadly, these products are not created equal, and considering the plethora of options out there, it’s easy to get overwhelmed.
To ensure you make the right choice, we’ve whipped up a list of the top pizza peels and included a buying guide section with tips on how to make an informed decision.
Top 5 Pizza Peels On the Market
| Rank | Product | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| 1. | DWTS DANWEITESI Pizza Peel | Dishwasher safe |
| 2. | LRUI 8-Inch Round Turning Pizza Peel | Oven-safe |
| 3. | Chef Pomodoro Metal Pizza Peel | Oven-safe |
| 4. | HOMEFAVOR Perforated Professional Pizza Peel | Oven-safe |
| 5. | Epicurean Pizza Peel, 21.5-Inch by 14-Inch | Lightweight |
Is Wood or Metal a Better Pizza Peel?
The choice between a wood or metal pizza peel largely depends on personal preference and how you intend to use it.
Wooden pizza peels are generally preferred for preparing the pizza and sliding it into the oven, as the dough is less likely to stick to a wooden surface. Additionally, wooden peels can absorb excess moisture from the dough, helping it crisp up nicely in the oven. However, they tend to be thicker and may require more skill to handle.
On the other hand, metal pizza peels are typically thinner and lighter, making them ideal for rotating and retrieving pizzas from a hot oven. They are also easier to clean than their wooden counterparts. However, they can cause the dough to stick if left too long before transferring into the oven due to their conductive nature.
In conclusion, many pizzaiolos prefer using both: a wooden peel for launching the pizza into the oven and a metal one for turning and retrieving it.
Best Pizza Peels Review
1. DWTS DANWEITESI Stainless Steel 16-Inch Pizza Peel
Taking our top spot is the DWTS DANWEITESI Stainless Steel 16-inch pizza peel with its sturdy metal construction. This light pizza peel features a thin stainless spatula that slides under the pies and pizzas effortlessly, especially when compared to those thick wooden peels.
This model is large enough to transport even a 16-inch pizza easily. Furthermore, it features a foldable design that makes storage extremely easy. The DWTS DANWEITESI Stainless Steel 16-inch pizza peel has a comfortable grip rubber handle for better handling. Plus, it features a long handle to keep your arms safe from extreme heat.
Even better, this best pizza peel features an aluminum blade that does not absorb food particles or unwanted odors and won’t give you a hard time cleaning this model. On top of that, this pizza peel is dishwasher-safe for a convenient cleaning experience.
In short, this is the model to take your baking skill to the next level. And if this model does not live up to the hype, you can reach out to the manufacturer for a full refund or replacement.
Strengths:
- Comfortable grip handle for better handling
- It features a fold-flat design for easy storage
- It’s built with a 430-grade stainless steel
- It’s dishwasher-safe for a convenient cleaning experience
Weaknesses:
- It does not fit a standard-size dishwasher
2. LRUI 8-Inch Round Turning Pizza Peel
Next on our list is the LRUI 8-round turning pizza peel, a top choice for most bakers. This 220-gram pizza peel is made of high-strength aluminum, which guarantees it can stand up to extreme temperatures.
The LRUI 8 round-turning pizza peel has a diameter of 8 inches, which makes it ideal for transporting large-size pizza from the table into the oven. Although this product is very portable, it’s super handy when baking in an outdoor pizza oven.
What’s more?
This portable peel sports a perforated design to release the flour from the pizza’s bottom and minimize friction for a crispy crust. Also, the ratio between the handle’s length and the scapula is a golden ratio that ensures an incredibly-looking pizza crust.
On the downside, this product is not advisable to toss into the dishwasher, so it’s recommended to hand wash in warm, soapy water. Also, it’s not perfect for slicing the pizza directly on this peel to prevent scratching the peel or damaging your knife blade.
Nonetheless, this model is backed by a 1-year manufacturer warranty and a 100% full refund or free replacement policy to offer buyers peace of mind with their purchase.
Strengths:
- It comes with a non-slip, anti-scalding silicone grip
- It has a great perforated design for a crispy pizza bottom
- It’s backed by a 1-year manufacturer’s warranty
- It’s easy to store
Weaknesses:
- It’s not dishwasher safe
3. Chef Pomodoro Aluminum Metal Pizza Peel
The Chef Pomodoro Aluminum Metal Pizza Peel features aluminum construction, which makes this product lightweight yet strong. This unit comes with a 10-inch all-natural birchwood handle featuring a foldable design for compact storage.
This aluminum pizza peel paddle is a perfect choice for cooking and baking pizzas, pastries, bread, and more. It’s suitable for transferring pastries, pies, cakes, delicate bread, and pizzas into a grill, wood-fired oven, or oven without worrying about burning your hands from the hot baked goods or the oven.
However, this cake lifter needs you to sprinkle cornmeal or flour on the peel to ensure that the dough slides off with ease. Chef Pomodoro Aluminum Metal Pizza Peel will fit in any kitchen size; condo, apartment, restaurant, or house.
Strengths:
- A 10-inch foldable handle to save up more storage space
- It’s made from commercial-grade aluminum for durability and withstanding high temperatures.
- The paddle is a perfect match for any gourmet pizza parlor, kitchen décor, and bakery.
- This product does not warp
Weaknesses:
- Poor quality control
4. HOMEFAVOR Perforated Professional Pizza Peel
The HOMEFAVOR Perforated professional pizza peel is made from anodized aluminum, which prevents the oxidation of the pizza skin surface. This premium-quality pizza peel can withstand extreme temperatures and also wear.
Furthermore, its unique design allows this peel to slide under sandwiches, bread, stromboli pizza, and pizza. The blade measures 12 by 14 inches, and its width is perfect for commercial and personal sides. This model does not demand much flour or cornmeal for effortless food release and ensures a crispy pizza bottom thanks to the perforated design.
Also, it comes in handy for the efficient transfer of your dough from your kitchen counter to the oven. More so, this model is equipped with an insulated silicone handle to keep the baker’s hands from the hot oven surfaces. This peel serves as an extension for easy retrieval of your pizza. Plus, its classic all-aluminum peel is durable enough to use.
What’s more?
This pizza peel is backed by a money-back guarantee and a full refund or replacement if you are not so satisfied with the performance of this pizza peel.
Strengths:
- It has a silicone handle to make it easy to load and remove pizzas safely
- This model features perforations to reduce the chances of burnt crusts.
- Large blade to accommodate any size of pizza
- It feels sturdy
Weaknesses:
- It is not dishwasher safe
5. Epicurean Pizza Peel, 21.5-Inch by 14-Inch
Earning a spot on our list is the Epicurean Pizza Peel with sturdy, heat-resistant wood construction. This model features a beveled front edge to allow users to reach under the dough for a no-fuss transport experience easily.
This light peel is crafted using natural material and has a natural color appearance. Don’t be fooled by its lightweight. The Epicurean Pizza Peel is durable, knife friendly, and non-porous, making it effortless to maintain. This NSF-certified tool is also suitable for commercial purposes.
That’s not all; this unit is ideal for a prep surface. This means you can prep, cut, and serve without working on it warping or cracking. Further, it can stand up to the rigorous daily use of any busy kitchen. Plus, it’s heat resistant up to 350 degrees F, which makes it great for scooping your pizza into and out of the oven.
What’s more?
The Epicurean Pizza Peel is dishwasher-friendly for a convenient cleaning experience. Also, you can choose to hand wash this product in your sink with hot soapy water for thorough cleaning.
Strengths:
- It’s a versatile peel that double well as a cutting surface
- Lightweight and durable construction
- This peel is knife-friendly and dishwasher safe
- It features a built-in hole for easy use and storage
Weaknesses:
- The handle is quite short and might not be ideal for a wood-fired pizza oven.
6. Chef Pomodoro Aluminum 9-Inch Turning Pizza Peel
The Chef Pomodoro Aluminum 9-Inch Turning Pizza Peel is a must-have tool if you are looking to bake with excellent results. The wooden handle is something I love about this peel, as it makes handling easier and safer.
Regardless of your type of oven: wood-fired or electric, you won’t have to worry about accidentally burning yourself while trying to get your pizza or pie in and out of the oven. I must say, using this peel makes preparing a pizza seem like kid’s play.
This cooking tool features an aluminum head, which allows this peel to support any temperature without cracking or warping. Also, the head is polished for a shiny and smooth finish. Users can hang the Chef Pomodoro Aluminum 9-Inch Turning Pizza Peel on the wall for easy storage or fold the handle for more compact and space-saving storage.
Strengths:
- It has an ergonomic handle for comfort
- It comes with an attractive and durable polished aluminum head
- Easy to hang on a wall or fold for compact storage
- It has a long handle for safe handling
Weaknesses:
- This peel is only available in one size option
7. American Metalcraft Pizza Peel
If you need a peel to allow you to make pizza like a pro, then you can’t go wrong with the American Metalcraft Pizza Peel. This product comes with a high-grade aluminum blade that slides under pizzas effortlessly, thanks to its thin construction.
In addition, it is equipped with a long wooden handle that delivers a smooth, comfortable grip. Also, it allows you to scoop your pizza in and out of the oven safely.
What’s more?
This unit features a three-rivet design that makes it durable and sturdy. More importantly, it’s responsible for the wooden handle offering a sleek, smooth, safe, and comfortable grip.
The manufacturer touts this pizza peel as a versatile cooking tool that does more than just scoop pizza in and out of the oven. The American Metalcraft Pizza Peel is also great for serving your pizza in a more rustic and authentic presentation.
Strengths:
- It comes with a thin, high-grade aluminum paddle
- It is available in different size options
- The peel feature a three-rivet design
- The handle is ergonomic and comfortable to use
Weaknesses:
- The dough tends to stick to this cooking tool
8. EXO Non-Stick Super Peel Pro
This list won’t be complete without the EXO Non-Stick Super Peel Pro. This cooking tool is one of the easiest to maintain peels out there. It’s designed to allow bakers, both novice and seasoned pros, to transfer their pizza, pie, or bread from the countertop to the oven.
Unlike wooden models, this model will not split or warp. Plus, it’s dishwasher-safe for a convenient cleaning experience. Even better, the composite peel is NSF-approved, which means it’s safe to come in contact with your food.
Above all, the Super Peel Pro rocks the EXO’s patented sliding conveyor technology for easy and goof-proof pick-up of pie crusts, artisan bread, and many more.
Strengths:
- It’s easy to maintain
- It offers a non-stick, easy pizza transfer
- This peel is NSF approved for safe, healthy meals
- It features a sturdy and robust construction
Weaknesses:
- It might be too big for your baking needs
9. Ooni 12″ Perforated Turning Pizza Peel
If you bake with a full-size oven, then the Ooni 12″ Perforated Turning Pizza Peel might not be the product for you – and for a good reason. This pizza peel has a short handle, which means it won’t be able to keep your hands at a safe distance from the extreme temperature of your full-size oven.
Although the Ooni 12″ Perforated Turning Pizza Peel is slightly pricey, the paddle’s perks make this product worth every penny. The paddle is made with aluminum for a lightweight yet durable product.
Even better, this cooking tool is more suitable for spinning and retrieving your dough out of the oven than several wooden paddles. And yes, it’s big enough to handle large pizzas. Thus, it’s the perfect one for people who tend to make large family dinners.
The thin design helps keep your pizza shape and slices under the dough to protect the crust for a crispy result. However, it’s best to add extra flour for better non-stick performance.
Strengths:
- It’s designed for effortless transfer
- It’s constructed with lightweight aluminum
- This light peel is perfect for sliding, turning, and retrieving pizzas from your oven.
- The paddle has a hard anodized coating to increase its corrosion resistance
Weaknesses:
- It’s on the pricey side
Things to Consider When Shopping for the Best Pizza Peel.
We’ve considered the top 9 products on the market. Now, let’s consider a few tips to ensure you make an informed decision.
Peel Dimensions
Pizza peels are built to allow bakers to transport the dough from the worktop to the oven and then to the serving plate. They come in different sizes and shape options based on the type of pizza. Thus, you should purchase a peel that corresponds to the size of the pizza you often make.
Additionally, the peel dimension should match your oven’s to prevent this cooking tool from hitting the sides.
Handle
A peel with a long handle tends to be bulky for a small oven and is best used for a wood fire oven. Long handles help keep you away from the high heat of the oven to prevent burning accidents. For indoor ovens, you might want to steer clear of long-handle peel.
Short handles are the ideal options to deliver incredible precision and easier handling. This short model makes turning your pizza, checking their cooking, and removing it from the oven ease.
Also, if you want a peel that you like to hang on the wall, you should consider a model with a handle hole. Further, there are some models with foldable designs to fit into compact cabinet storage.
Type of Material
There are several material options, and choosing the right one can be a bit challenging. Each material has its pros and cons. Thus, it boils down to your personal preference.
Wood
Wooden pizza peels are traditional and not very durable. Due to their wooden construction, they are usually heavy and can be a fuss to maintain. However, wooden models improve your kitchen decor by adding a natural feel.
But for purchasing a wooden peel, ensure that the model is not glued together and features a non-toxic natural treatment. In short, you should only buy peels that are certified to come in contact with your food.
Steel
When it comes to durability, you want to stick with steel pizza peels. Aside from their superior durability, they are more sturdy and fluid than wood. Also, they have better shock resistance and are usually rust-proof, especially stainless steel. However, combined with other metals might result in a material that is prone to rust. Similarly, you should check if the peel is food-safe before splurging on the tool.
Aluminum
For aluminum pizza peel, the lightness is one of its many perks. It’s lighter than the wooden and steel model, making them effortless to handle, whether it’s for serving or retrieving the pizza out of the oven.
When choosing an aluminum pizza peel, then it’s essential to go for a product whose alloys are already treated to ensure a hygienic and high-resistant one. You need to purchase a food-safe cooking tool.
Additional Features
A couple of pizza peels are knife-friendly, which means you can use a pizza cutter to slice the pizza directly on them. You might want to consider this option for home bakers to prevent incurring the extra cost of buying a pizza cutting board.
Another feature to look out for includes dishwasher compatibility. Some, not all, pizza peels can be tossed into the dishwasher for a convenient cleaning experience. Last, a pizza recipe book can be a bonus to you and make you more enthusiastic about pizzas. Besides, you won’t have to purchase a separate pizza recipe book.
Pizza Peel Related Questions & Answered
Tilt the pizza peel at about 30 to 45 degrees and scoop the dough quickly. Sliding the peel under the dough slowly makes it challenging to scoop the pie up. All you have to do is tilt this cooking tool, slide and lift the pizza quickly.
The importance of pizza peel when it comes to creating an authentic pizza can not be overemphasized. Sadly, you might not notice this importance until you make use of it. These cooking tools are designed to make baking pies, bread, pizzas, and more a cinch.
Besides, using them offers a much safer and easier way to get your food in and out of the oven.
It’s normal to struggle with your pizza sticking to this accessory. But to deal with this, you can either purchase a peel with a non-stick coating for excellent food release or sprinkle some cornmeal or flour before placing your dough on the tool. The latter comes in handy for people with a wooden pizza peel.
As said earlier, there are many options to pick from, which means there will always be a peel for you. However, the best pizza peel should accommodate the pizza with enough room to allow you to rotate or turn the pizza without any hassle.
More importantly, you want a peel that can fit into your type of oven and is perfect for your usual pizza size.
Unlike the steel and aluminum pizza peel, the wooden unit demands high maintenance for long-term performance.
With this in mind, you should always ensure the peel is fully dried before storing it in a cool, dry place—endeavor to keep the peel out of direct sunlight. Also, you can treat your peel with a food-grade oil to prevent this essential tool from drying out.
Conclusion
Having gone through the strengths and weaknesses of our best pizza peels reviewed above, it’s paramount that you settle for one that suits your cooking equipment. In short, if you are baking on a regular grill, then you should consider peeling with shorthand for easy handling on the grill.
On the other hand, the long-handle pizza is an excellent option for large ovens as it allows you to reach inside the oven without being at risk of getting burnt. Also, it’s a go-to for people with commercial kitchens. So, if it’s hard to pinpoint the right pizza peel for you. But if you’ve got a small oven as I do, then you need to purchase the Chef Pomodoro Aluminum 9-Inch Turning Pizza Peel.
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