What can I use instead of a baking stone for bread?

What is the best surface for baking bread?

The best surface for bread is one that is smooth and that could be stone, metal, or synthetic. A smooth wood can do just as well. I use a silpat sheet (silicone with some sort of fiber reinforcement in it).

Is a baking stone necessary?

Unless you’re lucky enough to have a brick hearth oven in your back yard, a baking stone–also called a pizza stone–is an essential tool for all of us would-be bakers! These stones mimic the conditions in those brick ovens by absorbing heat from your oven and allowing you to bake loaves right on top of the heat source.

Are baking stones worth it?

Compared to the metal of a baking sheet, the ceramic material of a pizza stone holds heat more evenly, and the porous surface draws water out of particularly wet areas of the dough as it cooks. Plus, when you preheat the stone, it gives the dough a strong burst of initial heat, puffing up the crust.

Is a pizza stone the same as a baking stone?

When designed for cooking pizzas, a baking stone is often referred to as a pizza stone. Using a pizza stone more or less mimics the effects of cooking a pizza in a masonry oven. The porous nature of the stone used also helps absorb moisture, resulting in a crispy crust.

Can I bake bread on a baking steel?

Here are the facts: Baking bread on a stone surface will generate high heat spread evenly for a perfect bake. However, if you bake bread in your home oven baking on a steel plate will be a better choice. A steel plate can reach higher temperatures and maintain the heat longer.