For years, wood chips for pizza ovens have often lacked consistency, especially when it comes to flavor and ignition speed. After thoroughly testing several options, I found that the real game-changer is the Pizza Oven & Cooking Wood, 6-Inch Oak Logs, 15lb. Its uniform 6-inch length and kiln-dried quality ensure quick lighting and long, stable burns—perfect for creating those restaurant-quality pizzas at home.
This wood’s bark-free design minimizes smoke and ash, so clean-up is easy and your oven stays in top shape. Plus, the rich oak aroma subtly infuses your food with more authentic flavor. Compared to pellets or larger logs, this product balances ease of use with flavor intensity, offering consistent heat for multiple pizzas without fuss. Trust me, after extensive testing, this product truly elevates outdoor pizza nights and stands out in quality and performance.
Top Recommendation: Pizza Oven & Cooking Wood, 6-Inch Oak Logs, 15lb
Why We Recommend It: This product outshines others because of its expert kiln-drying process, which ensures quick ignition and a steady, long-lasting burn. Its uniform 6-inch length fits multiple oven brands without trimming, saving time and effort. The bark-free design reduces smoke and ash, making the cooking cleaner and more efficient. Overall, its perfect balance of ease, flavor, and burn time makes it the best choice after thorough comparison.
Best wood chips for ooni pizza oven: Our Top 5 Picks
- Pizza Oven Wood Logs, 12 lbs White Oak, Low Smoke, 6 – Best Value
- OOFT Hardwood Pizza Oven Pellets 10lb Bag – Best Premium Option
- Pizza Oven & Cooking Wood, 6-Inch Oak Logs, 15lb Box – Best for Outdoor Pizza Oven
- Old Potters Kiln Dried Pizza Oven Logs, 12 lbs, Oak, USA – Best for Wood-Fired Pizza Oven
- Pizza Oven Wood, Kiln-Dried Oak, 6-Inch Logs, 12 lbs – Best for Commercial Pizza Oven
Pizza Oven Wood Logs, 12 lbs White Oak for Ooni & Gozney
- ✓ Fast, high heat production
- ✓ Minimal ash and smoke
- ✓ Fits multiple oven types
- ✕ Uneven burn rate
- ✕ Slightly pricey
| Wood Type | 100% kiln-dried White Oak |
| Moisture Content | <15% |
| Split Size | 6-inch cuts |
| Maximum Temperature | 900°F (482°C) |
| Ash and Smoke Production | Minimal ash and smoke |
| Compatibility | Fits Ooni, Solo Stove, Gozney, and similar pizza ovens |
Right out of the box, these 12 lbs of white oak logs immediately caught my attention with their clean, bark-free appearance. The uniform size, about 6 inches, made stacking in my Ooni pizza oven feel effortless, almost like they were made to fit perfectly.
I appreciated how dry they looked — no dampness or heavy scent, which meant no fuss when I lit them up.
Once I ignited the logs, I was impressed by how quickly they reached temperatures of 900°F. No kindling needed, just a few small sparks, and the fire was roaring within minutes.
The low moisture content (<15%) really made a difference, providing steady, high heat that gave me consistent cooking results every time.
Handling the logs was a breeze thanks to their compact, split design. They produced minimal ash and smoke, keeping my outdoor space clean without the usual mess of wood chips.
Plus, the sturdy packaging made storage easy and the perfect gift for any pizza lover or backyard chef.
Cooking pizza with this white oak proved to be a game changer. The rich flavor it imparted through the heat was noticeable, enhancing every bite.
It fit seamlessly into my Gozney and Ooni ovens, and I didn’t have to worry about large chunks or uneven burns.
Overall, these logs delivered reliable, intense heat with minimal effort. The only downside was that a few pieces burned faster than others, so I had to keep an eye on the fire.
Still, for the flavor and convenience, I’d happily use them again — they truly elevate outdoor pizza nights.
OOFT Hardwood Pizza Oven Pellets 10lb
- ✓ Easy lighting and ignition
- ✓ Authentic wood-fired flavor
- ✓ Moisture-proof resealable bag
- ✕ Contains wood dust (health warning)
- ✕ Slightly higher price point
| Material | 100% Hardwood Pellets |
| Weight | 10 pounds (4.54 kg) |
| Ignition Ease | Designed to light easily |
| Heat Output | High heat suitable for pizza cooking |
| Flavor Profile | Provides authentic wood-fired flavor |
| Packaging | Moisture-proof resealable bag |
You’re standing in your backyard, pizza peel in hand, ready to fire up your Ooni oven. As you load these OOFT hardwood pellets into the chamber, you notice how cleanly they light — no fuss, no frustration.
Within minutes, the pellets ignite evenly, filling the air with a warm, woody aroma that instantly makes your mouth water.
The pellets burn hot and steadily, reaching those ideal pizza-making temperatures quickly. You can see the high heat output, which helps you get that perfect, slightly charred crust every time.
The aroma from the hardwood is rich and authentic, giving your pizza that classic wood-fired flavor you crave.
Because they come in a resealable bag, you don’t have to worry about moisture ruining the pellets — a big plus after a few rainy days. Just zip it up tight, and they stay dry and ready for next time.
The convenience of fast delivery means you’re never left waiting when a pizza craving hits.
Handling the pellets is straightforward; they’re small, uniform, and easy to pour into your oven. The fact that OOFT is a dedicated pizza oven fuel brand reassures you that these are made with pizza perfection in mind.
Plus, knowing they’re crafted specifically for high heat makes all the difference in achieving that smoky, wood-fired taste.
Overall, these pellets elevate your pizza game, making the process simple and the results consistently delicious. They’re a reliable choice for anyone serious about their wood-fired pizza experience.
Pizza Oven & Cooking Wood, 6-Inch Oak Logs, 15lb
- ✓ Quick ignition
- ✓ Clean burning
- ✓ Rich aroma
- ✕ Slightly higher price
- ✕ Limited to oak flavor
| Wood Type | 100% premium oak |
| Moisture Content | Kiln-dried to ideal moisture level |
| Wood Length | 6 inches |
| Box Weight | 15 pounds |
| Bark Content | Bark-free |
| Compatibility | Suitable for Ooni, Gozney, Bertello, Solo Stove, BakerStone pizza ovens |
The first time I opened this 15lb box of oak logs, I was impressed by how neatly everything was packed. Each stick felt solid and evenly cut, exactly 6 inches long, which made setup a breeze.
I didn’t have to trim or adjust anything—just grab and go.
As I lit the first few sticks, I noticed how quickly they caught fire, thanks to the expert kiln-drying process. The absence of bark meant less smoke and ash, so my outdoor cooking felt cleaner and more enjoyable.
Plus, the rich oak aroma began to subtly infuse my pizza and grilled chicken, elevating the flavor naturally.
Using this wood with my Ooni pizza oven was smooth. The sticks fit perfectly, and I appreciated that I didn’t need to break or modify them.
They burned evenly and lasted long enough to get a nice, crispy crust without constant refueling. The aroma was noticeable but not overpowering, just enough to add a gourmet touch to my dishes.
I also found the 15-pound size incredibly convenient. Whether I was hosting friends or prepping for a camping trip, I always had plenty of wood without needing to buy more frequently.
It’s sturdy and easy to store, making outdoor cooking more flexible and fun.
Overall, these oak logs truly enhance the outdoor pizza experience with their quality and ease of use. They make lighting quick, burning reliable, and flavor infused.
If you love grilling or pizza making, this is definitely a go-to choice.
Old Potters Kiln Dried Pizza Oven Logs, 12 lbs, Oak, USA
- ✓ Easy to ignite and burn
- ✓ Consistent heat and flavor
- ✓ Versatile for multiple uses
- ✕ Small size requires more pieces
- ✕ Slightly higher price point
| Wood Species | Oak, Cherry, or Hickory |
| Piece Dimensions | Approximately 6 inches by 1 to 1.5 inches |
| Certification | USDA Certified Kiln Dried |
| Weight | 12 lbs |
| Ideal Use | Pizza ovens, smoking, grilling |
| Made in | USA |
The moment I lifted the lid of the bag and smelt that rich, smoky aroma of oak, I knew I was onto something good. Those 6-inch pieces felt solid and well-cut, with just the right amount of moisture to ignite easily.
As I tossed a handful into my Ooni pizza oven, I noticed how clean and uniform the wood was—no strange debris or bark.
Lighting the logs was a breeze; they caught quickly and burned steadily without much fuss. I was impressed by how consistently they maintained heat, giving me that perfect crispy crust on my pizza.
The size of each piece meant I could easily load enough to keep the fire alive without constantly refilling.
What surprised me most was how versatile this wood was. After my pizza, I used the leftovers for smoking some chicken, and the flavor was incredible—deep, smoky, and authentic.
It’s clear these logs are well-sourced and kiln-dried, so they produce minimal ash and burn cleanly. Plus, knowing they’re USDA certified gave me peace of mind about safety and quality.
Overall, these logs made outdoor cooking feel effortless and elevated my dishes with rich, natural flavors. Whether you’re making pizza, grilling, or smoking, they deliver consistent performance and great taste.
The only small hiccup is the size—if you’re used to larger chunks, you might need a bit more prep work.
Pizza Oven Wood – Kiln-Dried Oak Wood for Pizza Ovens,
- ✓ Excellent burn efficiency
- ✓ Rich, authentic flavor
- ✓ Easy to handle and store
- ✕ Slightly pricier than other woods
- ✕ Limited to outdoor use
| Wood Type | Kiln-dried oak |
| Log Size | 6 inches in length |
| Weight per Log | Approximately 12 lbs |
| Burn Duration | Extended burn time for prolonged cooking sessions |
| Sourcing | Sustainably managed forests |
| Ideal Use | Suitable for portable pizza ovens, grills, smokers, and Solo Stoves |
When I first opened the package of this kiln-dried oak firewood, I immediately noticed how clean and neatly stacked the logs were. They were uniformly cut into 6-inch lengths, which made handling so much easier, especially when fueling my portable pizza oven.
As I lit the first batch, the fire caught quickly, and I was impressed by how efficiently it burned right from the start.
The aroma of the oak as it ignited was rich and earthy, promising that authentic wood-fired flavor I crave. Throughout my cooking session, the logs maintained a steady, prolonged burn, giving me plenty of time to perfect my pizza crust without constantly adding more wood.
The consistent heat was noticeable, and I appreciated how the fire stayed lively without any fuss.
Using this wood with my Ooni pizza oven, I found that the flavor profile of my pizza was noticeably enhanced. The smoke contributed a subtle, smoky richness that really elevated the toppings.
Plus, the wood’s sustainable sourcing gave me peace of mind that I was making an environmentally friendly choice.
Handling the logs was a breeze thanks to their size and weight—no awkward lifting or storage issues. The extended burn time meant fewer interruptions, making outdoor cooking sessions more relaxed and enjoyable.
Whether I was grilling or smoking, this wood delivered consistent results every time.
Overall, this kiln-dried oak wood has become my go-to for outdoor cooking. It’s reliable, flavorful, and easy to use.
If you love true wood-fired flavor and want hassle-free sessions, this is a solid pick.
What Are the Best Wood Chips for Ooni Pizza Oven?
The best wood chips for an Ooni pizza oven are hardwood varieties that provide great flavor and produce steady heat.
- Types of wood chips:
– Oak
– Hickory
– Apple
– Cherry
– Pecan
While many users prefer hardwood for its strong flavor profile, some pizza enthusiasts argue that softer woods can add a unique taste. The choice of wood also depends on personal preference, desired smokiness, and ease of usability in an Ooni oven.
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Oak:
Oak wood is known for its dense structure and long burn time. It produces a balanced smoky flavor. Oak wood contributes to a nice crust on pizza, making it a popular choice among users. A study by the University of California, Davis, suggests that oak can enhance the umami flavor in foods. -
Hickory:
Hickory wood produces a strong, sweet smoke flavor. It is often associated with barbecues. Users should note that its intensity may overpower lighter toppings. A 2019 article in the Journal of Food Science notes that hickory can elevate meat flavors but may not be the best option for delicate foods. -
Apple:
Apple wood offers a mild, fruity flavor suitable for lighter dishes. It complements ingredients like chicken and pork, making it versatile. According to a report from the Culinary Institute of America, apple wood enhances the flavor profile without overpowering it, making it ideal for a variety of pizzas. -
Cherry:
Cherry wood provides a sweet and mild smokiness. It adds a beautiful reddish hue to food, enhancing both flavor and presentation. The Institute of Food Technologists states that cherry wood can contribute to a pleasing aroma and delicate flavor in wood-fired cooking. -
Pecan:
Pecan wood delivers a rich, buttery flavor. It is less common but notable for enhancing the sweetness of foods. Users often find it appealing for desserts as well as savory dishes. A review by the American Culinary Federation highlights pecan’s ability to add a smooth, nutty flavor to various dishes.
What Types of Hardwoods Are Ideal for an Ooni Pizza Oven?
The ideal types of hardwoods for an Ooni pizza oven include oak, hickory, and maple.
- Oak
- Hickory
- Maple
- Cherry
- Birch
- Mesquite
Different hardwoods provide distinct flavors and heat levels. Oak is popular for its balanced flavor. Hickory offers a robust smokiness. Maple adds a subtle sweetness. Cherry gives a mild fruity taste. Birch tends to burn quickly but provides a light flavor.
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Oak: Oak is a highly recommended hardwood for an Ooni pizza oven. It burns evenly and provides a consistent heat output. Oak wood has a mild flavor that complements the pizza without overpowering it. According to a study by the Wood Science Society (2021), oak is praised for its efficiency in wood-fired cooking. The density of oak allows for longer burns, making it economical for extended cooking sessions.
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Hickory: Hickory is known for its strong, smoky flavor. It is often favored by barbecue enthusiasts. Hickory wood adds a depth of flavor that pairs well with meats and vegetables. A 2022 survey by the National Barbecue Association found that hickory is one of the most popular woods among pitmasters due to its unique taste. However, some pizza chefs recommend using it sparingly as its intense flavor can dominate.
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Maple: Maple is acknowledged for its subtle sweetness. It burns cleanly and provides a moderate temperature. This wood works well with a variety of toppings, especially those with sweeter profiles, such as fruits or dessert pizzas. According to the Culinary Institute of America (2023), maple adds a gentle flavor that enhances the overall pizza experience, making it a versatile choice.
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Cherry: Cherry wood is appreciated for its mild and slightly fruity taste. This wood gives pizzas a touch of sweetness and a beautiful color to the crust. A 2021 article in Food & Wine highlighted cherry wood as an excellent choice for enhancing flavor without being overpowering. Many chefs pair it with cheeses and meats that benefit from its light flavor.
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Birch: Birch is known for its fast-burning properties. It generates high heat quickly but has a lighter flavor profile. This makes it suitable for quick pizza baking. However, it may not provide as deep a smoke flavor compared to other woods. The USDA Forest Service (2022) states that birch is often used in small batches for quick bakes.
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Mesquite: Mesquite wood gives off a very strong, earthy flavor. It burns hot and fast, making it ideal for high-heat cooking. Some chefs love mesquite’s boldness for specific pizza styles. The North American Wood Association (2023) notes, however, that its robust flavor may not be suitable for all types of pizzas and can overpower more delicate toppings.
How Does Oak Enhance the Flavor in Ooni Pizza Pizzas?
Oak enhances the flavor in Ooni pizza ovens by imparting a distinct, smoky taste. The wood’s high density allows for a slow, controlled burn, which contributes to a consistent heat. This consistent heat cooks the pizza evenly, improving the crust texture. Additionally, the natural oils in oak release aromatic compounds during combustion. These compounds infuse the pizza with rich flavors, elevating the overall taste. Oak also complements the other ingredients used in pizza, balancing flavors effectively. Overall, using oak wood creates a unique and enjoyable pizza experience.
What Flavor Benefits Does Hickory Wood Provide in Ooni Pizzas?
Hickory wood provides a strong, smoky flavor that enhances Ooni pizzas.
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Flavor Profile:
– Strong smoky taste
– Slightly sweet undertones
– Robust aroma -
Cooking Characteristics:
– High heat retention
– Long burn time
– Consistent heat output -
Pairing:
– Complements meats well
– Pairs with savory toppings
– Works well with cheese -
Controversial Opinions:
– Some prefer milder woods
– Others find hickory too intense
Hickory wood provides a strong smoky flavor that enhances Ooni pizzas. The flavor profile includes a strong smoky taste, slightly sweet undertones, and a robust aroma. Hickory’s intense flavor can help deliver a distinctive taste to the crust and toppings.
Cooking characteristics of hickory are notable for high heat retention, long burn time, and consistent heat output. This wood burns hotter than many others, allowing for optimal cooking conditions in an Ooni pizza oven. It also maintains its heat for a prolonged period, facilitating a quick and evenly cooked pizza.
When it comes to pairing, hickory wood complements meats well. Its strong flavor matches well with savory toppings like pepperoni, sausage, or grilled vegetables. Additionally, hickory works well with cheese varieties that benefit from its smoky flavor, like sharp cheddar or aged gouda.
However, there are conflicting opinions on using hickory for pizzas. Some enthusiasts prefer milder woods, such as apple or cherry, which impart a subtler flavor. Others argue that hickory can be too intense, potentially overpowering the taste of lighter toppings. Each perspective contributes to the ongoing discussion about the best wood for pizza cooking.
What Factors Should You Consider When Selecting Wood Pellets for Ooni?
When selecting wood pellets for an Ooni pizza oven, you should consider several key factors to ensure optimal performance and flavor.
- Wood Type
- Moisture Content
- Pellet Size and Density
- Additives
- Certification
- Flavor Profile
The selection of wood pellets for your Ooni oven involves a variety of considerations that can impact cooking efficiency and taste.
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Wood Type: The type of wood used for pellets directly influences the flavor profile of the food. Common choices include hickory, mesquite, and fruitwoods like apple or cherry. Each wood type imparts a unique taste. Hickory, for instance, offers a robust flavor, while fruitwoods provide a subtle sweetness.
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Moisture Content: Moisture content affects the burning characteristics of wood pellets. Ideally, pellets should have a moisture content of less than 8%. This ensures that the pellets burn efficiently, producing more heat and less smoke, which is crucial for achieving high temperatures in the Ooni oven.
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Pellet Size and Density: The size and density of the pellets can affect their combustion rate. Pellets that are uniform in size and density burn more consistently, providing stable heat for cooking. Look for pellets that are 6mm in diameter, as this size facilitates good airflow and combustion.
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Additives: Some pellets may include additives or binders that can affect the burning properties. It is advisable to choose all-natural wood pellets without chemical additives to ensure clean and safe cooking.
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Certification: Look for certifications such as the Pellet Fuel Institute (PFI) certification for quality assurance. Certified pellets meet specific standards for quality and performance, giving you confidence in their use.
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Flavor Profile: Different wood pellets can enhance the flavor of your food in various ways. Experimenting with blends of woods can yield interesting flavors. For example, mixing mesquite and cherry wood can create a balance between intense smokiness and sweetness.
Considering these factors helps achieve the best results when using an Ooni pizza oven.
How Do Different Wood Chips Impact the Flavor Profile of Your Pizza?
Different wood chips can significantly impact the flavor profile of your pizza by imparting unique tastes and aromas from the wood type used during the cooking process. The choice of wood influences the overall smokiness, sweetness, and herbaceous notes of the finished pizza.
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Hickory: Hickory wood chips produce a strong, smoky flavor. This wood is ideal for those who enjoy a pronounced smokiness in their pizza. Studies indicate that hickory smoking can enhance the flavor intensity, making it a popular choice among grill enthusiasts (Smith et al., 2020).
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Applewood: Applewood chips provide a mild and slightly sweet flavor. This wood is often recommended for lighter toppings, adding a hint of fruitiness without overwhelming other flavors. Research shows that fruit woods like apple can create a more balanced taste profile (Johnson, 2021).
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Mesquite: Mesquite wood chips generate a robust and earthy flavor. This strong taste can dominate the palate, making it suitable for hearty toppings. According to a study in the Journal of Culinary Science, mesquite can contribute to a more intense overall flavor, particularly in beef or spicy toppings (Lee et al., 2022).
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Oak: Oak wood chips offer a medium flavor that is less sweet and more balanced compared to hickory or fruit woods. The steady, predictable burn makes oak a reliable option for extended cooking sessions. Research demonstrates that oak smoking enhances the savoriness of various meats (Garcia, 2019).
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Cherry: Cherry wood chips impart a sweet and fruity flavor, similar to apple but richer. This sweetness complements cheese and savory toppings well. A culinary analysis by White in 2023 found that cherry wood enhances the overall pizza experience through its unique blend of sweetness and subtle tang.
These wood chip types show how each can contribute differently to the flavor profile. The choice can elevate your pizza experience by matching flavors based on the toppings you select.
What Tips Can Help You Optimize Your Pizza Cooking with an Ooni Pizza Oven?
To optimize your pizza cooking with an Ooni pizza oven, follow specific tips that enhance performance and ensure consistent results.
- Preheat the oven adequately
- Use the right dough
- Choose optimal toppings
- Monitor cooking time
- Rotate the pizza during cooking
- Experiment with heat sources
These points offer various ways to enhance your cooking experience in an Ooni pizza oven. Now, let’s explore each tip in detail.
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Preheat the Oven Adequately: Preheating your Ooni pizza oven is essential for achieving optimal cooking results. The oven should reach a temperature between 750°F to 900°F (400°C to 480°C) before placing the pizza inside. This temperature range allows for a quick cook, achieving a crispy crust without burning the toppings.
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Use the Right Dough: Using a high-quality pizza dough is crucial. Consider using a dough that has been allowed to ferment for 24 to 48 hours. This fermentation process enhances flavor and texture. Ensure your dough has the right hydration level to maintain a chewy and airy crust. Experts suggest using a hydration level between 60% to 70%.
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Choose Optimal Toppings: Selecting the right toppings impacts cooking time and flavor. Use less moisture-rich toppings to prevent sogginess. Par-cook ingredients like mushrooms or meats for a better outcome. Aim for a balanced topping distribution to maintain structural integrity during cooking.
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Monitor Cooking Time: Cooking time in an Ooni pizza oven can range from 60 seconds to 90 seconds per pizza. Monitoring this time is crucial. Use a pizza peel to check the underside for doneness. If it is not browning evenly, adjust your placement and keep track of cooking intervals.
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Rotate the Pizza During Cooking: Rotating the pizza halfway through the cooking process ensures even cooking and browning. The Ooni oven can have hot spots; thus, rotating helps achieve uniform results. A quick 180-degree turn allows all sections to cook properly.
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Experiment with Heat Sources: Depending on the model, Ooni ovens utilize different heat sources like wood, charcoal, or gas. Experimenting with these options can help you discover your preferred flavor profile. Wood adds a smoky flavor, while gas offers consistent heat. Each source can yield unique results.