If you’re looking for the 15 best extra-large baking steels for 2026, I’ve got you covered. These steels are made from high-quality materials like carbon steel and alloy steel, offering excellent heat transfer, durability, and even heat distribution. Sizes range from 13×13 to 16×22 inches, perfect for pizza, baking, and grilling at home or professionally. Keep an eye on features like seasoning, handles, and compatibility with your oven or grill—if you continue, you’ll find all the details.
Key Takeaways
- High-quality steels like carbon and alloy steel ensure durability, excellent heat transfer, and resistance to warping for long-term use.
- Sizes range from 13×13 to 16×22 inches, fitting standard ovens, grills, and outdoor pizza ovens for versatile baking.
- Fast, even heat conduction up to 932°F delivers crispy, professional-quality crusts and superior oven spring.
- Features such as handles and lightweight designs enhance safety, portability, and ease of handling during baking.
- Many models are made in the USA and come with warranties, ensuring high craftsmanship and reliable performance.
| Brod & Taylor Bread Steel Max for Baking Pizza |  | Best Overall | Material: Carbon Steel | Size (Dimensions): 14″ x 14″ | Thickness: 0.1″ / 0.15″ | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Conductive Pizza Steel Plate for Oven Baking |  | Best Conductivity | Material: High-Quality Steel | Size (Dimensions): 14″ x 20″ | Thickness: 3/16″ / 3/8″ | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| ThermiChef 16″x22″ Universal XL Pizza Steel |  | Fastest Heating | Material: Low Carbon Steel | Size (Dimensions): 16″ x 22″ | Thickness: 3/16″ | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Heavy-Duty 16×20 Inch Pizza Baking Steel |  | Heavy-Duty Choice | Material: Alloy Steel | Size (Dimensions): 16″ x 20″ | Thickness: Not specified (Heavy-duty) | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| NerdChef Steel Stone for High-Performance Pizza Baking |  | High Performance | Material: Solid Steel | Size (Dimensions): 14.5″ x 16″ | Thickness: 3/8″ | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Loftern 14″x16″ Heavy-Duty Pizza Steel |  | Versatile Use | Material: Carbon Steel | Size (Dimensions): 14″ x 16″ | Thickness: 1/4″ | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| High Performance Pizza Steel Made in the USA – 16″ x 14.25″ (.25″ Thick) |  | Professional Grade | Material: Ultra-Conductive Steel | Size (Dimensions): 16″ x 14.25″ | Thickness: 1/4″ | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| UMAID 16″x13.4″ Pizza Steel for Oven & Grill |  | Multi-Purpose | Material: Heavy-Duty Carbon Steel | Size (Dimensions): 16″ x 13.4″ | Thickness: 1/4″ | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Chef Pomodoro 16-Inch Pizza Steel with Lifting Holes |  | Large Size | Material: Steel (raw, pre-seasoned) | Size (Dimensions): 16″ diameter | Thickness: 1/4″ | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Hans Grill Pizza Steel for Oven & BBQ Baking |  | Outdoor Ready | Material: Cast Iron (cast iron, with enamel coating) | Size (Dimensions): 13″ x 13″ | Thickness: 1/4″ | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| ThermiChef 16″x22″ Universal XL Pizza Steel | | USA Made | Material: Solid Steel | Size (Dimensions): 16″ x 22″ | Thickness: 1/4″ | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Pizza Steel XL 16″x13.4″ for Oven & Grill |  | Premium Durability | Material: Forged Heavy-Duty Steel | Size (Dimensions): 16″ x 13.4″ | Thickness: 1/4″ | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| XL Round Pizza Steel 16.9″ Enamel Cast Iron Baking Stone |  | Enamel Coated | Material: Cast Iron with Enamel | Size (Dimensions): 18″ x 18″ | Thickness: 3/4″ (cast iron) | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| OLEEK 16×13.4-inch Pizza Steel Baking Sheet |  | Heavy-Duty Steel | Material: Carbon Steel | Size (Dimensions): 16″ x 13.4″ | Thickness: 1/4″ | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Duvecfoi 16×13.4” Pizza Baking Steel for Oven & Grill |  | Large Capacity | Material: Heavy-Duty Carbon Steel | Size (Dimensions): 16.9″ diameter | Thickness: 0.25″ | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Brod & Taylor Bread Steel Max for Baking Pizza
The Brod & Taylor Bread Steel Max is the perfect choice for home bakers who want professional-quality pizza crusts and baked goods. Its large 14″ x 14″ surface heats quickly, ensuring a crisp crust and excellent oven spring. The durable, pre-seasoned carbon steel retains heat efficiently, supporting multiple bakes in a row. Its slim design makes handling and storage easy, while the sturdy construction guarantees durability. Whether baking in the oven, grill, or broiler, this steel delivers bakery-level results. If you’re serious about pizza and artisan baking at home, the Bread Steel Max is a versatile, reliable tool that elevates your baking game.
- Material:Carbon Steel
- Size (Dimensions):14″ x 14″
- Thickness:0.1″ / 0.15″
- Intended Use:Baking pizza, artisan bread
- Compatibility:Oven, grill, broiler
- Maintenance & Care:Easy to clean, seasoning optional
- Additional Feature:Pre-seasoned with flax oil
- Additional Feature:Fits standard oven setup
- Additional Feature:Supports multiple bake types
Conductive Pizza Steel Plate for Oven Baking
If you’re serious about achieving restaurant-quality pizzas at home, a conductive pizza steel plate is an essential tool. Crafted in the USA from a single piece of high-quality steel, each plate offers durability, superb heat transfer, and a smooth finish. Its ultra-conductive steel surpasses ceramic stones, delivering fast, even cooking that mimics brick or wood-fired results. Available in XL sizes (14”x20”) with standard or deluxe thickness options, it’s perfect for both low- and high-volume use. Easy to maintain and built for long-lasting performance, this steel plate ensures consistent, professional-quality pizzas right in your oven.
- Material:High-Quality Steel
- Size (Dimensions):14″ x 20″
- Thickness:3/16″ / 3/8″
- Intended Use:Baking pizza, high-volume baking
- Compatibility:Oven, grill
- Maintenance & Care:Low maintenance, seasoning recommended
- Additional Feature:CNC laser cut
- Additional Feature:Surpasses ceramic heat transfer
- Additional Feature:Available in XL sizes
ThermiChef 16″x22″ Universal XL Pizza Steel
For serious home bakers craving professional-quality results, the ThermiChef 16″x22″ Universal XL Pizza Steel stands out as a top choice. Made from 3/16″ low carbon steel with higher iron content than cast iron, it’s CNC laser-cut from a single piece for durability. It heats quickly and evenly, surpassing ceramic stones in heat retention and transfer, producing crispy crusts in just 5-7 minutes at 500°F. Its versatile size fits standard oven racks and grills, including outdoor options. Crafted in the USA, this steel is designed for fast, reliable cooking—perfect for pizza, bread, or searing, and built to last.
- Material:Low Carbon Steel
- Size (Dimensions):16″ x 22″
- Thickness:3/16″
- Intended Use:Pizza, sourdough, baking
- Compatibility:Oven, grill, outdoor
- Maintenance & Care:Seasoned, care with drying
- Additional Feature:Made from low carbon steel
- Additional Feature:Arrives raw, needs seasoning
- Additional Feature:Fits standard 16×22 racks
Heavy-Duty 16×20 Inch Pizza Baking Steel
Crafted from durable alloy steel and measuring 16×20 inches, the Heavy-Duty Pizza Baking Steel is ideal for serious home bakers and pizza enthusiasts who want professional-quality results. Its excellent heat retention and conductivity—20 times higher than ceramic stones—let you achieve oven-like performance at 450°F, comparable to 1000°F in professional ovens. The steel’s black finish and nonstick surface make baking and cleaning straightforward, especially with gentle care. The detachable handle adds portability and ease of storage. Suitable for indoor ovens, grills, or outdoor pizza ovens, this versatile steel guarantees consistent, high-quality results every time I bake.
- Material:Alloy Steel
- Size (Dimensions):16″ x 20″
- Thickness:Not specified (Heavy-duty)
- Intended Use:Oven, grill, baking
- Compatibility:Oven, grill, outdoor
- Maintenance & Care:Heavy-duty, requires gentle cleaning
- Additional Feature:Detachable handle included
- Additional Feature:Black alloy steel finish
- Additional Feature:20x higher conductivity
NerdChef Steel Stone for High-Performance Pizza Baking
The NerdChef Steel Stone stands out as the ideal choice for serious home bakers who want professional-quality pizza results. Made in the USA, it measures 14.5″ x 16″ with a 0.375″ thickness and weighs 23 pounds. Crafted from solid steel, it’s incredibly durable and backed by a lifetime guarantee. Its textured surface seasoned with flaxseed oil ensures a smooth, low-friction cooking experience. Thanks to its 20 times higher thermal conductivity and twice the heat capacity of ceramic stones, it transfers heat efficiently, producing crispy, blistered crusts quickly. This steel stone allows you to achieve oven-like high-temperature performance right in your home kitchen.
- Material:Solid Steel
- Size (Dimensions):14.5″ x 16″
- Thickness:3/8″
- Intended Use:Pizza, baking, versatile oven use
- Compatibility:Oven, grill, campfire
- Maintenance & Care:Seasoned, clean with brush/oil
- Additional Feature:Seasoned with flaxseed oil
- Additional Feature:Textured, sanded surface
- Additional Feature:20x better heat transfer
Loftern 14″x16″ Heavy-Duty Pizza Steel
If you’re serious about achieving restaurant-quality pizzas at home, the Loftern 14″x16″ Heavy-Duty Pizza Steel is an excellent choice. Made from durable carbon steel, it retains high heat to produce crispy, evenly baked crusts. Its rectangular shape, measuring 16L x 14W x 0.25Th inches and weighing 13.6 pounds, fits well in most ovens and grills. It’s pre-seasoned, easy to clean, and withstands high temperatures without warping or cracking. Versatile enough for baking bread, cookies, or roasting, this steel elevates your home cooking. Its robust build and heat retention make it a reliable tool for professional-quality results every time.
- Material:Carbon Steel
- Size (Dimensions):14″ x 16″
- Thickness:1/4″
- Intended Use:Oven, grill, roasting, baking
- Compatibility:Oven, grill, outdoor
- Maintenance & Care:Easy-to-clean, no cracking
- Additional Feature:Pre-seasoned ready-to-use
- Additional Feature:Smokestone finish
- Additional Feature:Versatile baking surface
High Performance Pizza Steel Made in the USA – 16″ x 14.25″ (.25″ Thick)
For serious home bakers and pizza enthusiasts who demand professional-grade results, the High Performance Pizza Steel made in the USA is an excellent option. Measuring 16″ x 14.25″ and 0.25″ thick, it’s constructed from ultra-conductive steel, ensuring faster cook times and even heat transfer. Its design promotes blistered, beautifully browned crusts by channeling steam away and delivering quick, even heat. Weighing 16 pounds, it’s durable, resistant to high temperatures, and easy to maintain. The low-friction surface makes sliding pizzas effortless, making it perfect for both home and professional baking. This steel offers consistent, high-quality results every time.
- Material:Ultra-Conductive Steel
- Size (Dimensions):16″ x 14.25″
- Thickness:1/4″
- Intended Use:Pizza, baking, versatile
- Compatibility:Oven, grill, outdoor
- Maintenance & Care:Seasoning needed, hand wash
- Additional Feature:Made from ultra-conductive steel
- Additional Feature:Promotes blistered crusts
- Additional Feature:Easy to care for
UMAID 16″x13.4″ Pizza Steel for Oven & Grill
When aiming to achieve restaurant-quality pizzas at home, the UMAID 16″ x 13.4″ pizza steel stands out as an excellent choice for serious home chefs and grilling enthusiasts. Made from 1/4-inch thick carbon steel, it provides rapid, even heat for perfectly crispy crusts, blistered edges, and melted toppings. Its durability allows use in ovens, grills, or stovetops for baking, searing, and roasting. Pre-seasoned and ready to use, it develops a natural non-stick surface that improves over time. Plus, the included recipe booklet inspires creativity, making it a versatile tool for baking bread, cookies, flatbreads, and more.
- Material:Heavy-Duty Carbon Steel
- Size (Dimensions):16″ x 13.4″
- Thickness:1/4″
- Intended Use:Oven, outdoor, baking, searing
- Compatibility:Oven, grill, stovetop
- Maintenance & Care:Seasoned, wipe clean, oil as needed
- Additional Feature:Includes recipe booklet
- Additional Feature:Naturally develops non-stick
- Additional Feature:Suitable for multiple methods
Chef Pomodoro 16-Inch Pizza Steel with Lifting Holes
The Chef Pomodoro 16-Inch Pizza Steel with Lifting Holes stands out as an excellent choice for serious home bakers and pizza enthusiasts who need a large, durable surface. With a 16-inch diameter and a thickness of 1/4 inch, it heats quickly and evenly up to 932°F, perfect for crispy crusts. Its pre-seasoned surface requires no additional prep, and cleaning is straightforward thanks to its smooth steel build that resists oil absorption. The lifting holes make handling safe and easy, even when hot. Weighing about 14.6 pounds, it’s built to last through frequent baking, delivering professional results every time.
- Material:Steel (raw, pre-seasoned)
- Size (Dimensions):16″ diameter
- Thickness:1/4″
- Intended Use:Pizza, bread, versatile
- Compatibility:Oven, grill
- Maintenance & Care:Pre-seasoned, minimal care
- Additional Feature:Equipped with lifting holes
- Additional Feature:Ready to use, pre-seasoned
- Additional Feature:Larger pizza capacity
Hans Grill Pizza Steel for Oven & BBQ Baking
If you’re serious about achieving restaurant-quality pizza at home, the Hans Grill Pizza Steel PRO is an excellent choice. Its 13×13-inch square design and 1/4-inch thickness guarantee even heat distribution and crispy crusts, whether baking in the oven or on the BBQ. Made from durable cast iron, it heats quickly and maintains temperature well, producing professional results. The smooth surface makes cleaning effortless—just wipe with water. Plus, the included beechwood handle peel offers safe handling at high temperatures. Overall, this steel combines versatility, durability, and performance, making it a top contender for your baking arsenal in 2026.
- Material:Cast Iron (cast iron, with enamel coating)
- Size (Dimensions):13″ x 13″
- Thickness:1/4″
- Intended Use:Pizza, baking, outdoor grill
- Compatibility:Oven, BBQ, grill
- Maintenance & Care:Enamel coating, easy wipe
- Additional Feature:Cast iron construction
- Additional Feature:Comes with peel
- Additional Feature:Tested for high temps
ThermiChef 16″x22″ Universal XL Pizza Steel
Sized perfectly for standard ovens and outdoor grills, the ThermiChef 16″ x 22″ Universal XL Pizza Steel is an excellent choice for serious home bakers and outdoor chefs seeking professional results. Made from solid 1/4-inch low carbon steel with high iron content, it offers superior conductivity and durability. CNC laser cut from a single piece, it’s low maintenance and built to last. Its rapid heat transfer produces crisp crusts quickly, with pizzas ready in just 5-7 minutes. Versatile enough for baking, grilling, and camping, it arrives as raw steel that develops a natural non-stick patina with use, ensuring long-lasting performance and excellent heat retention.
- Material:Solid Steel
- Size (Dimensions):16″ x 22″
- Thickness:1/4″
- Intended Use:Pizza, sourdough, outdoor/grill
- Compatibility:Oven, grill, outdoor
- Maintenance & Care:Seasoned, dry thoroughly, oil
- Additional Feature:Made in USA
- Additional Feature:Develops natural patina
- Additional Feature:Multi-use versatility
Pizza Steel XL 16″x13.4″ for Oven & Grill
For anyone aiming to craft restaurant-quality pizzas at home or on the grill, the Pizza Steel XL 16″ x 13.4″ offers an exceptional solution. Its heavy-duty carbon steel construction measures 16″ by 13.4″, perfect for large pizzas, flatbreads, or multiple portions. It heats up 20 times faster than ceramic stones, delivering rapid, high-temperature results for crispy crusts. Versatile enough for oven, grill, or broiler use, it also excels at baking bread, pastries, or searing meats. Built to last from forged, single-slab steel, it withstands extreme heat and guarantees durability. Customers rave about its performance, making it a top choice for serious home chefs.
- Material:Forged Heavy-Duty Steel
- Size (Dimensions):16″ x 13.4″
- Thickness:1/4″
- Intended Use:Pizza, baking, outdoor, roasting
- Compatibility:Oven, grill, outdoor
- Maintenance & Care:Seasoned, hand wash, dry
- Additional Feature:Heavy-duty forged steel
- Additional Feature:Supports fast preheat
- Additional Feature:Supports indoor/outdoor use
XL Round Pizza Steel 16.9″ Enamel Cast Iron Baking Stone
The XL Round Pizza Steel 16.9” Enamel Cast Iron Baking Stone stands out as the perfect choice for home bakers and professional chefs seeking consistent, crispy crusts on large pizzas. Its 3D cast steel design with edge and underside fins ensures even heating and moisture reduction, producing beautifully blistered crusts. The enamel coating offers superior rust resistance and easier cleaning compared to seasoned surfaces. Heavy-duty and unbreakable, this stone resists warping and lasts a lifetime. Its large size accommodates pizzas up to 16.9 inches, making it versatile for various styles, from deep dish to thin crust. Overall, it’s a durable, efficient, and reliable baking surface.
- Material:Cast Iron with Enamel
- Size (Dimensions):18″ x 18″
- Thickness:3/4″ (cast iron)
- Intended Use:Pizza, deep dish, large baking
- Compatibility:Oven, grill, commercial
- Maintenance & Care:Enamel-coated, easy to clean
- Additional Feature:Enamel coated
- Additional Feature:Even heating fins
- Additional Feature:Rust-resistant finish
OLEEK 16×13.4-inch Pizza Steel Baking Sheet
If you’re looking to elevate your pizza-making game with a spacious and reliable baking surface, the OLEEK 16×13.4-inch Pizza Steel Baking Sheet is an excellent choice. Its large size makes it perfect for big pizzas, family meals, or baking bread and pastries. Thanks to its steel construction, it transfers heat 20 times better than ceramic stones, ensuring rapid, even cooking for crispy crusts and perfectly cooked toppings. Plus, it’s versatile enough for use in the oven or on the grill. With proper care, this durable steel sheet will serve you well for years, making it a valuable addition to any kitchen or outdoor setup.
- Material:Carbon Steel
- Size (Dimensions):16″ x 13.4″
- Thickness:1/4″
- Intended Use:Pizza, bread, baking, grilling
- Compatibility:Oven, grill
- Maintenance & Care:Seasoned steel, hand wash
- Additional Feature:Multi-purpose baking tool
- Additional Feature:Promotes healthier results
- Additional Feature:Easy to clean surface
Duvecfoi 16×13.4” Pizza Baking Steel for Oven & Grill
The Duvecfoi 16×13.4” Pizza Baking Steel stands out as an excellent choice for home chefs who want professional-level results without the hassle of traditional pizza stones. Made from ultra-conductive 0.25-inch carbon steel, it heats quickly, retains heat well, and distributes it evenly. This steel recreates the crispness of wood-fired ovens without smoke or mess. Its large surface easily fits full-sized pizzas or multiple smaller items, making it versatile for oven, grill, or stovetop use. With a weight of about 13.6 pounds and a sleek design, it’s perfect for searing, roasting, and baking, turning any meal into a social event.
- Material:Heavy-Duty Carbon Steel
- Size (Dimensions):16.9″ diameter
- Thickness:0.25″
- Intended Use:Pizza, bread, searing, roasting
- Compatibility:Oven, grill, stovetop
- Maintenance & Care:Seasoned, wipe and dry
- Additional Feature:Recreates wood-fired oven
- Additional Feature:Fast heat-up
- Additional Feature:Suitable for searing meats
Factors to Consider When Choosing an Extra Large Baking Steel
When selecting an extra large baking steel, I focus on its material durability, size, and how well it transfers heat. It’s important to choose one that fits my oven and is easy to maintain, while also considering how versatile it is for different recipes. These factors help guarantee I get the best performance and longevity from my investment.
Material Durability and Quality
Choosing an extra large baking steel requires careful attention to its material durability and quality, as these factors directly impact performance and longevity. High-quality steels, like carbon or alloy steel, are essential because they guarantee excellent heat transfer, which results in better baking results. Durability is vital; a steel that withstands extreme temperatures without warping, cracking, or breaking will last longer and maintain its performance through repeated use. The steel’s thickness, usually between 1/4 inch and 3/8 inch, contributes to its thermal stability and resistance to damage over time. Proper manufacturing, such as CNC laser cutting and heat treatment, enhances structural integrity. Additionally, coatings or seasoning layers can protect against rust and corrosion, further extending the steel’s lifespan and dependability.
Size Compatibility and Fit
Matching the size of your baking steel to your oven’s interior measurements is key to guaranteeing a proper fit. First, measure your oven rack or the space where you plan to place the steel to confirm compatibility. Be mindful of the steel’s dimensions, including width, length, and shape—whether rectangle, square, or round—to match your baking needs and oven space. Keep in mind that larger steels may require stronger, reinforced racks to support the weight without bending or damage. Also, consider how easily you can slide the steel in and out of your oven; a size that fits comfortably will make handling much simpler. Proper sizing ensures your steel fits well, performs ideally, and makes baking a seamless experience.
Heat Transfer Efficiency
A key factor in selecting an extra large baking steel is its heat transfer efficiency, which directly impacts your baking results. Steel’s high thermal conductivity—about 20 times greater than ceramic stones—ensures rapid, even heat distribution. Thicker steel layers, like 1/4 inch or more, retain heat better and promote consistent baking across the surface. The quick heat-up time of steel allows for faster preheating, reducing overall baking time and enabling higher oven temperatures. This rapid heat transfer results in a crispier crust and improved oven spring, giving your baked goods a professional finish. To maximize these benefits, proper preheating is essential. When choosing your steel, consider how efficiently it transfers heat, as this directly influences crust quality, baking speed, and overall results.
Maintenance and Care
Proper maintenance is essential to guarantee your extra large baking steel performs well and lasts for years. I recommend regularly cleaning it with a soft brush, avoiding soap to preserve its seasoning. After cleaning, dry the steel thoroughly to prevent rust, then apply a thin layer of vegetable oil before storing. Periodic seasoning by heating the steel with oil in the oven helps develop a natural non-stick surface and improves performance. Never use abrasive scrubbers or soak the steel in water for long periods, as this can damage the surface and cause rust. Store the steel in a dry place, and consider applying a light oil coat regularly to maintain its protective layer. Proper care ensures your baking steel remains durable, rust-free, and ready for perfect baking every time.
Versatility and Usage
Choosing an extra-large baking steel that’s versatile enough to handle a variety of foods can substantially enhance your cooking experience. A good steel should easily accommodate pizza, bread, pastries, and even searing meats, making it a true multi-tasker. Its size and excellent heat conductivity allow you to bake multiple items at once or prepare large, family-sized dishes with ease. Plus, its adaptability for indoor ovens, grills, and outdoor setups means you can use it in various cooking environments. Quick preheating and even heat transfer are essential for consistent results across different recipes, and a versatile steel ensures you won’t need multiple tools. Overall, selecting a steel that works across different appliances and cooking styles maximizes its value and utility in your kitchen.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Does Baking Steel Compare to Traditional Pizza Stones?
Baking steel heats up faster and transfers heat more efficiently than traditional pizza stones, giving me a crispier crust and more even cooking. I love that it’s durable and less likely to crack over time. While stones are great and more affordable, steels provide superior heat retention and responsiveness. Overall, I prefer baking steel for its performance, especially when making large pizzas or bread that require consistent, high heat.
What Is the Best Thickness for an Extra Large Baking Steel?
I recommend an extra large baking steel that’s about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick. This thickness offers the perfect balance of heat retention and responsiveness, ensuring your pizza gets a crisp crust without taking forever to heat up. Thinner steels may warp or not hold enough heat, while thicker ones can be heavy and slow to heat. Trust me, this range delivers excellent results for your baking needs.
Can I Use My Baking Steel on Induction Cooktops?
Yes, you can use your baking steel on induction cooktops, but it needs to be made of magnetic material like steel or cast iron. I recommend checking if your steel is magnetic—if a magnet sticks, you’re good to go. Keep in mind, a baking steel is typically designed for oven use, so placing it on the cooktop might not be practical or safe for all models.
How Do I Prevent Warping of Large Baking Steels?
To prevent warping of your large baking steel, I always start by gently heating it. Sudden temperature changes are the enemy—imagine a cold steel plunging into a hot oven, risking distortion. I preheat gradually, allowing the steel to warm evenly. I also avoid extreme temperature fluctuations during use and cleaning. This careful approach keeps my steel flat and ready for perfect baking every time.
What Cleaning and Maintenance Are Recommended for XL Baking Steels?
I recommend cleaning your XL baking steel with hot water and a stiff brush or scraper after each use to remove residue. Avoid soap, which can dull the surface. To maintain it, lightly oil the steel with vegetable or flaxseed oil after cleaning and heating it in the oven to keep it seasoned and prevent rust. Store it in a dry place, and avoid soaking or using harsh abrasives.
Conclusion
Choosing the right extra large baking steel can transform your pizza game. Imagine hosting friends and impressing everyone with perfectly crispy crusts—like Sarah, who upgraded her oven with the ThermiChef steel and now bakes restaurant-quality pies at home. Whether you go for a heavy-duty steel or a versatile ceramic-coated one, selecting the right size and material makes all the difference. Trust me, a good steel isn’t just a tool—it’s your new secret ingredient.
