Get That Perfect Crispy Crust: A Guide to Choosing the Best Wood for Pizza

Are you looking to make mouth-watering, wood-fired pizza at home? Then you need to know the best type of wood to use in your pizza oven. With so many options out there, it can be tough to choose the right one. But fear not, we've got you covered. In this article, we're going to share our top picks for the best wood to use in a wood-fired pizza oven.

Using the right type of wood can make all the difference in the flavor and texture of your pizza. We've tested and tried several types of wood and narrowed down our favorites to eight. These woods are seasoned and dried hardwoods and fruitwoods that provide the perfect balance of heat and flavor for your pizza.

But it's not just about the type of wood. You also need to consider the moisture content and avoid using treated or painted wood that can be harmful to your health. We'll walk you through everything you need to know to select, store, and use the best wood for your wood-fired pizza oven.

Get ready to take your pizza game to the next level with our expert guide on the best wood for a wood-fired pizza oven.

Types of wood for pizza

When it comes to choosing the best wood for your pizza oven, there are several options available. While each type of wood has its own unique characteristics, some are better suited for making pizza than others. Here are some of the most popular types of wood for pizza ovens:

1. Softwoods: Softwoods, such as pine and cedar, are not recommended for pizza ovens. They contain high levels of resin, which can produce harmful smoke and impart an unpleasant taste to your pizza.
2. Hickory: Hickory is a hardwood that produces a strong, smoky flavor. It burns hot and slow, making it an excellent choice for pizza. Hickory can be difficult to find and can be expensive, but its distinctive flavor is worth the effort.
3. Fruit woods: Fruit woods, such as applewood, cherry, and peach, are popular choices for pizza ovens. They burn hot and fast, producing a sweet, fruity flavor that complements the savory toppings on your pizza. Applewood is a favorite among many pizza enthusiasts due to its delicate, sweet flavor.
4. Dry wood: Whatever type of wood you choose, make sure it is dry. Wet or green wood will produce excessive smoke and can create creosote buildup in your oven. Kiln-dried wood is a great option since it has been dried in a controlled environment to remove excess moisture.
5. Mesquite: Mesquite is a hardwood that burns hot and produces a strong, smoky flavor. It is a popular choice for grilling, but it can also be used in pizza ovens to add a bold flavor to your pizza.

No matter which type of wood you choose, make sure it can withstand high heat and has been stored properly to prevent moisture buildup. With the right type of wood, you can achieve a perfectly crispy, flavorful pizza every time.

Factors to consider when choosing wood for pizza

When selecting wood for your pizza oven, there are several factors to consider to ensure your pizza is cooked to perfection. Here are some key things to keep in mind:

High temperatures:

Pizza ovens operate at high temperatures, typically between 700 and 900 degrees Fahrenheit. Therefore, you need to choose wood that can withstand these temperatures without releasing a lot of smoke or producing excess moisture.  

Moisture content:

Using wood with a high moisture content can create excess smoke, which can negatively impact the flavor of your pizza. Choose wood that has been seasoned or kiln-dried to remove excess moist

Wood burning:

Choose wood that is well-suited for burning in a pizza oven. Dense hardwoods, such as oak or maple, are ideal because they burn slowly and produce a consistent heat.

High sap content:

Avoid using wood that has a high sap content, such as pine or spruce. These woods can produce a lot of smoke and impart a bitter flavor to your pizza. 

Amount of smoke:

While some smoke is desirable for imparting flavor to your pizza, too much smoke can ruin the taste. Choose wood that produces a moderate amount of smoke, such as fruitwoods or hardwoods.

Flavor:

Different types of wood will impart different flavors to your pizza. Hickory produces a strong, smoky flavor, while fruitwoods provide a sweet, fruity taste. Consider the flavor you want to achieve when choosing wood for your pizza oven.

Availability and cost:

Some types of wood, such as mesquite or hickory, can be expensive and difficult to find. Consider the availability and cost of wood when making your selection. 

Type of oven:

The type of pizza oven you have can also affect your choice of wood. Traditional brick ovens may require a different type of wood than portable, propane-fired ovens.

 
Region and culture:

In some regions or cultures, certain types of wood are traditionally used for cooking pizza. For example, in Naples, Italy, where pizza originated, they often use a blend of oak and beechwood. Consider your own cultural or regional preferences when selecting wood for your pizza oven. 

By considering these factors, you can choose the best wood for your pizza oven and ensure your pizza is cooked to perfection every time.

Best wood for pizza

After considering the factors mentioned above, we recommend the following types of wood for your pizza oven:

1. Maple wood: Maple wood is a hardwood that burns slowly and produces a mild, sweet smoke. It is an excellent choice for pizza ovens, as it provides a consistent heat and imparts a delicate flavor to your pizza.
2. Oak firewood: Oak is a dense hardwood that burns hot and long, making it an ideal choice for pizza ovens. Red oak is particularly well-suited for pizza, as it produces a milder smoke than white oak.
3. Pecan wood: Pecan wood is a fruitwood that burns hot and produces a sweet, nutty flavor. It is a popular choice for smoking meats and is also excellent for pizza.
4. Cherry wood: Cherry wood is another fruitwood that burns hot and produces a sweet, fruity smoke. It is a popular choice for smoking meats and is also excellent for pizza.
5. Apple wood: Apple wood is a favorite among pizza enthusiasts, as it produces a delicate, sweet smoke that complements the flavors of your toppings. It burns hot and fast, making it an ideal choice for pizza.
6. Hickory wood: Hickory is a hardwood that produces a strong, smoky flavor. It burns hot and slow, making it an excellent choice for pizza. However, it is important to use hickory sparingly, as it can be overpowering.

It is essential to use dry wood for your pizza oven, as green wood or wood with high moisture content can produce excess smoke and negatively impact the flavor of your pizza. Kiln-dried wood is an excellent option, as it has been dried in a controlled environment to remove excess moisture.

When sourcing wood for your pizza oven, check with your local firewood supplier, farmers' markets, or specialty wood shops. Be sure to choose wood that is sustainably sourced and seasoned or kiln-dried.

By choosing the right type of wood for your pizza oven, you can enhance the flavor of your pizza and achieve that perfect crispy crust. Experiment with different types of wood to find the flavor that works best for you.

Final Thoughts - Which Wood Will You be Using for Wood-Fired Pizzas?

Choosing the right type of wood for your pizza oven is crucial for achieving the perfect crispy crust and imparting the desired flavors to your pizza. By considering factors such as high temperatures, moisture content, and smoke production, you can select the best wood for your pizza oven.

Experimenting with different types of wood can help you find the flavor that works best for you. Whether you prefer the delicate sweetness of applewood or the bold smokiness of hickory, there is a type of wood that will perfectly complement your pizza toppings.

In conclusion, we recommend using dry hardwoods, such as maple or oak, or fruitwoods, such as cherry or applewood, for your pizza oven. These woods burn consistently, produce a moderate amount of smoke, and impart delicious flavors to your pizza.

So why not try something new for your next pizza? Source some high-quality, sustainably sourced wood and experiment with different types to find your preferred flavor. Trust us, you won't regret it!