Pizza peels are indispensable tools in the world of pizza-making, offering a convenient and efficient way to handle and transfer pizzas in and out of the oven. These long-handled paddles typically feature a flat, thin surface that allows pizzas to slide easily onto and off of hot pizza stones or baking surfaces. Whether you’re a seasoned pizzaiolo or a home cook experimenting with homemade pies, a quality pizza peel ensures that your pizzas are safely and swiftly maneuvered for a perfect bake every time. Join us as we explore the world of pizza peels, uncovering their key features and benefits to help you elevate your pizza-making game.
Best pizza peels of 2024
5. FLAFSTER KITCHEN Pizza Peel
The FLAFSTER KITCHEN Pizza Peel is the best choice for those seeking a lightweight and ergonomic pizza peel that’s easy to handle and transfer pizzas with. Made of aluminum metal, this pizza peel measures 12.5’x14′ and features a folding handle for convenient storage. The ergonomic design ensures a comfortable grip, allowing you to easily slide pizzas in and out of the oven.
The peel comes nicely packaged in a gift-appropriate box, making it a perfect present for pizza lovers. Customers have praised the folding handle’s sturdiness and ease of use, as well as the product’s overall build quality and usefulness. While some have expressed concerns about the handle pinching when opening or closing, the majority of customers are satisfied with its functionality and value for the price.
The peel’s sturdiness, grip, and size have also received positive feedback, along with its ease of cleaning. Customers recommend this pizza peel for its effectiveness in handling homemade pizzas, bread baking, and even frozen grocery-store pizzas. Its space-saving design and helpfulness in avoiding burns while handling hot pizzas make it a versatile tool in the kitchen.
4. New Star Foodservice 50196 Aluminum Pizza Peel
For those seeking a durable and versatile pizza peel, the New Star Foodservice 50196 Aluminum Pizza Peel is an excellent choice. This commercial-grade peel is constructed with anodized aluminum and natural solid basswood, ensuring its durability and longevity. Its slimmer design allows for easy sliding, lifting, and flipping in the oven, while the triple rivet construction ensures improved stability.
Not only is it easy to clean, but it also doesn’t absorb odors or food particles. The New Star Foodservice Pizza Peel comes in various size options, making it suitable for lifting pizzas, cakes, bread, cupcakes, or muffin pans out of the oven. With its long handle, it keeps your hands and arms away from the heat, ensuring safety.
3. American METALCRAFT
With its durable 12′ x 14′ blade and lightweight construction, the American Metalcraft Aluminum Pizza Peel is the perfect choice for anyone seeking a versatile and reliable tool for their pizza-making needs. Made with a 14-gauge aluminum blade and a 19′ wooden handle, this peel offers both sturdiness and ease of use.
Its lightweight design allows for effortless maneuverability, making it ideal for transferring pizzas, pastries, bread, or pies in and out of the oven. The rustic and authentic presentation provided by this peel adds a touch of elegance to your culinary creations.
Customers have praised the product’s fit, sturdiness, and easy cleaning, as well as its quality, raw handle, and manufacturer’s stamp. Some have suggested adding a hole for hanging on a wall, but overall, the American Metalcraft Aluminum Pizza Peel has received positive reviews for its quality, sturdiness, and lightness.
2. OUII Aluminum Pizza Peel
Ideal for those seeking a lightweight and versatile pizza peel, the OUII Aluminum Pizza Peel offers a range of features that make it a top choice in 2024. Made of aluminum with a 12 x 14-inch plate, this peel isn’t only lightweight but also easy to carry. Its adjustable and lockable handle adds to its versatility, allowing you to adjust it to the perfect length and lock it in place for added stability.
The OUII Aluminum Pizza Peel isn’t limited to just pizza; it’s also suitable for bread and cakes. With its rust-proof and humidity-resistant properties, you can count on this peel to last for a long time. Additionally, it arrives in gift-ready packaging, making it a great option for gifting. Overall, the OUII Aluminum Pizza Peel is a reliable and convenient tool for serving delicious pizzas with ease.
1. New Star Foodservice
If you’re in search of a pizza peel that combines durability, lightweight construction, and easy maneuverability, look no further than New Star Foodservice 50295 Restaurant-Grade Wooden Pizza Peel. Made of sturdy, durable, and lightweight basswood, this peel is designed to last. Its fine, even texture prevents cracking and oil secretion, ensuring a clean and hygienic cooking surface.
The tapered half-inch blade allows for easy sliding and lifting of pizza, making it a breeze to transfer your creations in and out of the oven. Available in various lengths and sizes, this peel can also be used for lifting pizzas, cakes, bread, cupcakes, or muffin pans.
Although hand wash only, the New Star Foodservice 50295 is highly praised by customers for its performance, ease of use, and durability. Overall, it offers excellent quality and value for money, making it a top choice for pizza lovers.
What to consider when choosing the best pizza peels
Material and Durability
Pizza peels are an essential tool for transferring pizzas in and out of the oven, and when choosing the best one, it’s important to consider the material and durability.
The material of the pizza peel plays a crucial role in its performance and longevity. Wood is a popular choice for pizza peels as it’s lightweight, provides a natural non-stick surface, and absorbs moisture, preventing the dough from sticking. However, wood can warp or crack over time, so it’s important to choose a peel made from high-quality hardwood.
Another option is aluminum, which is lightweight, durable, and easy to clean. Stainless steel is also a popular choice due to its durability and resistance to rust and corrosion.
Size and Shape
Pizza peels come in a variety of sizes and shapes, each designed for different purposes. The size of the peel should match the size of your pizza, ensuring that it can easily slide on and off the peel without any issues. A larger peel is ideal for making larger pizzas, while a smaller peel is perfect for personal-sized pizzas or smaller ovens.
In terms of shape, there are rectangular peels, round peels, and even square peels. Rectangular peels are great for traditional round pizzas, while round peels are better suited for pizzas with irregular shapes or sizes. Square peels can be used for both square and round pizzas, offering versatility.
Handle Length and Grip
Consider the handle length and grip when choosing the best pizza peel for your needs. The handle length is important because it determines how far away you can safely stand from the heat of the oven while using the peel. If the handle is too short, you may risk burning yourself. On the other hand, if the handle is too long, it may be difficult to maneuver the peel effectively.
Additionally, the grip of the handle should be comfortable and secure. Look for handles that are ergonomically designed and have a non-slip surface. This will ensure that you have a firm hold on the peel and can easily transfer your pizza in and out of the oven without any accidents.
Surface Texture
The surface texture of a pizza peel plays a crucial role in ensuring that your pizza slides smoothly onto and off of the peel. A peel with a smooth surface may cause the dough to stick, making it difficult to transfer the pizza to the oven or remove it once it’s cooked.
On the other hand, a peel with a textured surface provides better traction, preventing the dough from sticking and allowing for easy maneuverability. Look for peels with a lightly textured surface, such as those with small perforations or a slightly roughened finish. These textures promote airflow and help to prevent the dough from sticking, resulting in a perfectly cooked pizza every time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Pizza Peels Be Used for Purposes Other Than Baking Pizzas?
Yes, pizza peels can be used for purposes other than baking pizzas. They are versatile tools that can be used to transfer bread, pastries, and even grilled foods to and from the oven or grill.
What Material Is Best for a Pizza Peel?
A wooden pizza peel is the best material for a pizza peel. It provides a natural, rustic look and has excellent heat resistance. The smooth surface allows for easy sliding of pizzas in and out of the oven.
Do Pizza Peels Come in Different Sizes?
Yes, pizza peels come in different sizes. They can range from small to large, depending on your needs. A smaller peel is great for home use, while a larger one is ideal for professional kitchens.
How Do I Clean and Maintain a Pizza Peel?
To clean and maintain a pizza peel, simply wipe off any excess flour or dough, then wash it with warm soapy water. Dry it thoroughly and occasionally oil the surface to keep it in great shape.
Are There Any Safety Precautions to Keep in Mind When Using a Pizza Peel?
When using a pizza peel, remember to protect your hands with oven mitts or gloves, as the peel can get hot. Be cautious of the sharp edges and handle them with care to avoid any injuries.
