Pizza Stone Question

Pibby

Should I preheat the pizza stone before I place the pizza dough on it?[p]Thanks,[p]Pibby

The Naked Whiz

Pibby,
Yes! Part of the purpose of using a stone is to get the initial burst of heat into the dough which the hot ceramic provides. This makes for a crisper crust and aids the dough in rising.[p]TNW
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Banker John

Pibby,
Absolutely preheat the stone. I use a plate setter, legs down with a stone on top of the setter.[p]I will also wipe the stone with a damp washcloth immediately before sliding the dough from the peel to the stone. THe damp washcloth will slightly lower the surface temp of the stone and help equalize the temp (helps avoid hot spots). Be sure to add cornmeal after the damp wipe and before the dough touches the stone.[p]This is not an original trick. Only something I learned here.[p]I also use a pizza screen. Lay dough on the screen and place screen directly on the stone. ( no need to wipe or use cornmeal). Faster & easier but not as nice a presentation of finished product if having company.[p]Remember, it's how you like it Just my $.02[p]Banker John