Perfect Pizza Calculator

Calculate the perfect baking time and temperature for your pizza based on scientific research and professional pizzaioli recommendations. This calculator uses thermodynamic principles to help you achieve the ideal pizza, whether you’re using a wood-fired brick oven or a modern electric oven.

Why Use This Calculator?

• Get scientifically-backed baking times and temperatures
• Adjust calculations based on your oven type (wood-fired or electric)
• Account for pizza thickness and dough temperature
• Achieve professional pizzaioli-level results at home

How to Use It

1. Select your oven type (wood-fired brick or electric)
2. Enter the pizza thickness (typical Roman pizza is about 0.5 cm or 0.2 inches)
3. Input your dough temperature (room temperature is around 20°C or 68°F)
4. The calculator will provide the optimal baking temperature and time

Understanding Results

The calculator provides:

• Recommended oven temperature
• Ideal baking time
• Expected bottom temperature
• Tips based on your input

Tips for Perfect Pizza

For Wood-Fired Brick Ovens

• Optimal temperature: 325-330°C (617-626°F)
• Expected cooking time: ~2 minutes
• For faster cooking: increase to 390°C (734°F) for 1.5 minutes

For Electric Ovens

• Set temperature to about 230°C (446°F)
• Use a pizza stone to simulate brick oven conditions
• Enable convection mode if available
• For topped pizzas, lift with a spatula for the final 30 seconds

Technical Notes

This calculator is based on thermodynamic research by physicists from the National Research Council in Rome and the Argonne National Laboratory. It considers three fundamental modes of heat transfer:

• Thermal radiation
• Conduction
• Heat needed for water evaporation

Common Issues and Solutions

1. Burnt Bottom:

   • Lower the temperature
   • Use a pizza stone
   • Reduce cooking time

2. Undercooked Toppings:

   • Ensure proper preheating
   • Use convection mode
   • Consider lifting the pizza for final cooking

3. Uneven Cooking:

   • Rotate the pizza during cooking
   • Ensure even topping distribution
   • Check oven temperature consistency

Disclaimer

While this calculator provides scientifically-based recommendations, actual cooking times may vary based on specific oven characteristics, ingredients, and environmental conditions. Always monitor your pizza while cooking and adjust as needed.