Ooni Volt 12 Review – Ooni’s First Indoor Pizza Oven

Introduction to Ooni Volt 12 Electric Pizza Oven

If you’re a pizza lover like me, you know that nothing beats the taste of a homemade pizza baked to perfection. That’s where the Ooni Volt 12 Electric Pizza Oven steps in. Priced at $999.00, the Ooni Volt 12 is Ooni’s first all-electric pizza oven, bringing the promise of pro-quality pizza baked right in your home, be it inside or outside.

Being an all-electric oven, you’ll bid farewell to the time-consuming prep and clean-up associated with charcoal or wood-fired ovens. What’s more, it fits conveniently on a standard kitchen countertop, making it a great addition to any kitchen space.

One of the first things you’ll notice about this oven is its sleek design, crafted with a combination of powder-coated carbon steel and stainless steel. But its aesthetics are only part of the story. The Ooni Volt 12 has been engineered for optimal performance, and can reach a scorching 850°F (450 °C) in just 20 minutes. Talk about speed!

This oven takes cooking convenience to the next level with its adjustable dials to control top and bottom heating elements, built-in timer, temperature control, and a Boost mode. This means you can not only control the heat intensity but also manage your baking time, freeing you to prepare other ingredients or entertain your guests.

I know what you might be thinking – does an electric oven give you that authentic, stone-baked pizza taste? The answer is a resounding yes! The Ooni Volt 12 produces a pizza that tastes flame-cooked, but without actual flames or burning fuels.

Whether you’re an expert pizza-maker or a beginner, the Ooni Volt 12 has got you covered with its manually adjusted or automatic heat settings. This, combined with its lightweight and portable design, makes the Ooni Volt 12 a versatile option for all your pizza parties or cozy family dinners.

In this Ooni Volt 12 review, I will take you through all the details, features, and experiences with this oven. My aim is to give you a comprehensive understanding of this product, which could be the missing piece to your perfect homemade pizza! Let’s get started.

Ooni Volt Key Features

As a pizza chef, I understand how crucial each component of a pizza oven is in contributing to that perfectly baked pizza. So, let’s dive into the key features of the Ooni Volt 12 Electric Pizza Oven and understand how each one plays its role.

One standout feature of the Ooni Volt 12 is the triple-paned borosilicate glass door. This type of glass is known for its durability and excellent heat retention properties, which means your oven will maintain its temperature efficiently, allowing you to bake your pizzas evenly and quickly.

Speaking of speed, the Ooni Volt 12 doesn’t just stop at impressive heat retention. It also has a built-in timer and temperature control to ensure your pizza is cooked to perfection. Plus, there’s a Boost mode for when you need that extra surge of heat – ideal for achieving that well-baked crust and perfectly melted cheese.

If you like to have more control over your cooking, the Ooni Volt 12 has adjustable dials to control the top and bottom heating elements. This means you can adjust the oven’s heat distribution to cater to your preferred cooking style. For instance, you can increase the bottom heat if you love a crispy crust, or adjust the top heat for a golden-brown topping.

The beauty of the Ooni Volt 12, however, lies not only in its baking prowess but also its ease of use. Right out of the box, the oven is ready to use. There’s no need to assemble any parts, so you can get started on your pizza-making journey right away.

This ease of use extends to its portability as well. Thanks to its built-in handles and lightweight design, you can conveniently move it from your kitchen to your outdoor patio. This feature makes it a versatile choice for those who enjoy hosting both indoor dinner parties and outdoor barbecues.

In the box, you’ll find an Ooni Volt 12 Oven, a 13-inch Cordierite Baking stone, an Ooni Volt Essentials Guide, and a Manual. The cordierite stone, known for its excellent thermal properties, ensures your pizza is evenly cooked from the bottom up. Meanwhile, the Essentials Guide and Manual offer handy tips and instructions to get you started.

Overall, the Ooni Volt 12 offers a well-rounded package of functionality and convenience. It’s evident that a lot of thought has gone into the design and features of this oven, prioritizing both the baking results and user experience.

But, like any product, it may have its pros and cons, and the Ooni Volt 12 is no exception. Next, we will explore some of the benefits and potential downsides of this electric pizza oven to give you a balanced view. So, stay with me as we continue this Ooni Volt 12 review.

Design and Build Quality of Ooni Volt 12

Design and build quality are not just about aesthetics – they can significantly impact the performance and user experience of a pizza oven. The Ooni Volt 12 is a prime example of how design meets function. So, let’s delve into the details.

Weighing in at about 28 lbs, the Ooni Volt 12 is fairly lightweight for a pizza oven. The oven’s compact dimensions (24.8 x 15.75 x 11.6 inches) make it a perfect fit for small spaces, whether it’s a compact urban kitchen or a petite patio. Despite its smaller footprint, it doesn’t compromise on the interior cooking space and comfortably fits a 12-inch pizza.

In terms of material, the Ooni Volt 12 is crafted from commercial-grade stainless steel and features a powder-coated carbon steel shell, which offers not only durability but also resistance to weather conditions. This design choice makes the oven suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.

Remember the triple-paned borosilicate glass door we discussed earlier? Beyond its functional benefits, it also adds to the oven’s visual appeal. The glass door lets you watch your pizza as it bakes, making it a conversational piece during your pizza parties.

The design of the Ooni Volt 12 is also noteworthy for its portability. The compact size and built-in handles mean you can easily carry it from your kitchen to the patio or even on a camping trip. This portable design ensures you can enjoy homemade pizza wherever you go.

The Ooni Volt 12 doesn’t just offer a sleek look; it has a modern and minimalistic design that complements any kitchen or outdoor setting. The brushed stainless-steel finish exudes an air of sophistication, and its design, while modern, doesn’t detract from its primary function as a pizza oven.

When considering the build quality, it’s evident that Ooni has not cut corners. The construction feels robust and durable, with a high attention to detail. The controls are easy to operate, with clearly marked dials and buttons that give a sturdy feel.

In conclusion, the Ooni Volt 12 Electric Pizza Oven impresses with its thoughtful design and superior build quality. It showcases a balance between aesthetics and functionality, making it a well-rounded oven that delivers on performance, portability, and style.

In the next section, we’ll delve into how the Ooni Volt 12 performs, as we discuss its heating capabilities, cooking speed, and the quality of pizza it produces. Stay tuned!

Performance and User Experience

When it comes to any kitchen appliance, but especially pizza ovens, performance is paramount. The Ooni Volt 12 delivers exceptionally in this regard. From my personal experience and talking to other users, it’s evident that the oven’s temperature control, Boost mode, and pizza cooking performance are worthy of mention.

Let’s start with how the Ooni Volt 12 cooks a pizza. Remember that 12-inch pizza I was talking about? It’s not just that it fits; it bakes perfectly. In around 60-90 seconds, you get a pizza with a beautiful, evenly baked crust, melty cheese, and toppings that have just the right touch of char.

One standout feature that contributes to this performance is its unique adjustable heating elements. With these, you can control where the heat is directed, ensuring your pizza is cooked just how you like it. Want a crispier crust? Direct more heat towards the base. Love a good char on your cheese? Send the heat upwards. You’re the master of your own pizza destiny with the Ooni Volt 12.

The oven’s temperature control is impressive, reaching up to 950°F. This is on par with professional pizza ovens and significantly higher than most domestic ovens. It makes a noticeable difference in how quickly and evenly your pizza cooks. Moreover, the built-in thermometer allows for precise temperature management, helping you avoid any burned or undercooked pizzas.

But what about that Boost mode? This is something I have come to love. When engaged, Boost mode supercharges the oven to reach its maximum temperature rapidly – perfect for getting that extra bit of char on your crust or for quickly reheating the oven between pizzas. It’s a thoughtful addition that takes the guesswork out of cooking pizza to perfection.

From a user experience standpoint, the Ooni Volt 12 is a delight. The oven heats up in less than 15 minutes, and thanks to its electric operation, there’s no dealing with gas tanks or burning wood. It’s a plug-and-play situation, which makes it ideal for those who want convenience without compromising on the authentic pizza oven experience.

Overall, the Ooni Volt 12 offers a smooth and enjoyable user experience, from ease of use and setup to impressive temperature control and cooking performance. Up next, we’ll take a closer look at how the Ooni Volt 12 fares against the competition, and whether it’s worth the investment. Stay tuned!

No product is perfect, and while the Ooni Volt 12 is a highly efficient pizza oven, it does have a few minor quirks that some users have noted.

The first is related to its power. While the electric power is convenient, it’s crucial to have a dedicated circuit for this oven as it requires quite a bit of electricity to operate at peak performance. Some users have reported tripped circuit breakers when using the oven alongside other heavy power-consuming appliances. This isn’t a fault of the oven itself, but it’s something to consider when deciding where to set it up in your kitchen or outdoor area.

Secondly, while the adjustable heating elements are generally fantastic for customizing your cook, they do require a bit of a learning curve to master. Some users have reported that it took them a few tries to get their pizza cooked exactly how they like it. But once they got the hang of it, it became a beloved feature.

Lastly, the oven’s high heat can make handling the pizza a little challenging for beginners. A metal peel is included, which is great for launching and retrieving pizzas, but the handle can get hot. Some users suggest investing in a heat-proof glove for comfort and safety.

Despite these minor inconveniences, most users agree that the benefits and overall performance of the Ooni Volt 12 far outweigh these small setbacks. It’s a matter of understanding the oven’s nuances and learning to use them to your advantage to create the perfect pizza every time.

Features and Accessories

If you thought the Ooni Volt 12 already sounded impressive, just wait until we dive into its additional features and the accompanying accessories that can be purchased separately.

Let’s start with the oven’s built-in internal light. You might be thinking, “A light? Why is that a big deal?” Trust me, when you’re trying to perfect the char on your crust, this tiny detail makes a world of difference. With the internal light, you’re no longer guessing how your pizza is doing inside the fiery hot belly of this oven. Instead, you get a clear view of the magic happening inside.

Another feature worth noting is the weather-resistant shell. For those of you keen on setting up the Ooni Volt 12 outdoors, this will be a game changer. No need to fret about unexpected showers or inclement weather conditions damaging your prized pizza oven. This sturdy, resilient casing can withstand various weather elements, ensuring your oven remains safe and sound.

Now, let’s talk about the accessories. Though the Ooni Volt 12 already comes with a metal pizza peel, Ooni offers a variety of additional accessories to elevate your pizza making experience. One such accessory is their premium pizza turning peel, designed for easy rotation of your pizza while it’s inside the oven, which can significantly improve the evenness of your cook. They also offer an infrared thermometer, perfect for those who want to monitor the oven’s temperature with precision.

Another handy accessory is the Ooni pizza oven cover. Though the Volt 12 is weather-resistant, the cover offers an additional layer of protection, and it also doubles as a carry bag, making the oven even more portable.

Remember, these additional features and accessories aren’t just bells and whistles. Each one is designed to enhance your experience, making the process of cooking a perfect pizza more accessible, enjoyable, and consistently successful. In short, they’re investments in your culinary journey and well worth considering.

Versatility

It might be named the Ooni Volt 12 ‘Pizza Oven’, but this versatile culinary powerhouse is far from a one-trick pony. Sure, it can bake you a Neapolitan pizza that’ll whisk your taste buds straight to Naples, but the Ooni Volt 12 can do so much more.

Steaks, burgers, fish, vegetables, flatbreads, you name it; this oven can handle it all. With its high-temperature capabilities, the Ooni Volt 12 can sear a steak to perfection, giving you that delectable, mouth-watering char on the outside, while keeping it succulent and tender on the inside. Try roasting some vegetables in it; the intense heat can caramelize your veggies, amplifying their sweetness and enhancing their flavor profile.

And don’t even get me started on baking bread in this oven. The intense heat of the Ooni Volt 12 can give your bread a lovely, robust crust, while keeping the interior soft, airy, and full of flavor.

But what about usability, you ask? Well, the Ooni Volt 12 shines both indoors and outdoors. Yes, you heard me right. Thanks to its electric heating element, this oven is as comfortable sitting on your kitchen counter as it is outside on your patio. Just remember to ensure proper ventilation if you decide to use it indoors.

One word of caution, though: while the oven’s flexibility allows for indoor use, the intense heat it generates requires careful handling. This is not your average countertop toaster oven, and it demands respect. Always adhere to the manufacturer’s safety guidelines when operating it, and remember, no oven mitts, no pizza!

In essence, the Ooni Volt 12 offers a degree of versatility that’s quite exceptional in the pizza oven market. From its multi-cuisine cooking potential to its dual indoor-outdoor usability, it breaks away from the ‘pizza oven’ stereotype and offers users a well-rounded, versatile culinary companion.

Maintenance and Cleaning

Maintenance and cleaning can often be the less glamorous side of owning a pizza oven. However, with the Ooni Volt 12, they’ve made the process relatively simple, allowing you to spend more time cooking and less time cleaning.

Let’s start with the cleaning process. After a pizza cooking session, there will likely be some ash or residue from the cooking process. Thankfully, the interior of the Ooni Volt 12 is self-cleaning at high temperatures, so running it at full blast for around 15-20 minutes can help burn off much of this excess residue. Once it has cooled, a simple brush out will have it looking good as new. Don’t forget to unplug it before you start, safety first!

Now, onto maintenance. One of the beauties of this oven is its electric design. Unlike its wood-fired counterparts, there are no complex parts or mechanisms that require regular checking or replacing. The main thing to monitor is the heating element, which, with regular use and proper care, should last for years without any problems.

In terms of storage, while the Ooni Volt 12 is built to withstand the elements thanks to its weather-resistant shell, it’s best to store it indoors or under a weatherproof cover when not in use to protect it from any harsh weather conditions. The lightweight and portable design of the oven make it a breeze to move around, so you can easily store it away in your garage, shed, or even under the kitchen counter.

One last tip for you: occasionally, you might want to give the exterior of your Ooni Volt 12 a good wipe-down. A clean, damp cloth should do the trick. Avoid using any harsh cleaning chemicals that could damage the oven’s sleek finish.

In a nutshell, the Ooni Volt 12 is relatively low maintenance, which is a major plus for those who dread the clean-up after a big cookout. Just a few easy steps and minimal upkeep, and this oven will serve you well for years to come.

Ooni Volt 12 vs Ooni Koda, Karu, and Fyra Models

Ooni’s range of pizza ovens offers some fantastic choices for pizza enthusiasts. In this part of the review, we’ll look at how the Ooni Volt 12 stands up to its Ooni siblings: the Koda, Karu, and Fyra models.

First, let’s compare it with the Ooni Koda. Like the Volt 12, the Koda is a gas-powered oven, providing easy temperature control and convenience. Both have impressive heating capabilities, but the Volt 12 has a slight edge with its electric-powered boost function. However, Koda’s standout feature is its ultra-lightweight and super compact design, which makes it a good choice for those with limited space or who require extreme portability.

Next, the Ooni Karu. This model stands out for its multi-fuel capability. You can use wood, charcoal, or gas (with an additional attachment), giving it an edge in terms of versatility. If you love the smoky flavor that only wood or charcoal can provide, the Karu is your go-to. The Volt 12, while not multi-fuel, excels in consistent temperature maintenance and ease of use, thanks to its electric nature.

Lastly, the Ooni Fyra, a wood pellet pizza oven. This model offers the traditional wood-fired pizza experience, with the unique flavor that comes from cooking with wood pellets. Fyra, being a more compact and portable design, is excellent for taking on camping trips. However, it doesn’t offer the same level of temperature control or ease of use as the Volt 12.

In terms of price, the Volt 12 comes in as a mid-range option, being more expensive than the Fyra, roughly on par with the Koda, but cheaper than the Karu (especially if you add the gas burner attachment).

It’s clear that each oven in the Ooni range has its strengths, appealing to different cooking preferences and lifestyles. The Ooni Volt 12, with its electric functionality and boost feature, stands out for its consistency, convenience, and the unique ability to superheat for a perfect pizza crust. For those seeking simplicity without sacrificing performance, the Volt 12 is a strong contender. However, if you’re after the authentic smoky flavor of a wood-fired oven, then the Karu or Fyra might be more up your alley.

Choosing the right model ultimately depends on your individual needs, but rest assured, you can’t really go wrong with an Ooni pizza oven.

Pros and Cons of Ooni Volt 12 Electric Pizza Oven

The Ooni Volt 12 Electric Pizza Oven is a popular model among pizza enthusiasts for several good reasons. However, as with any product, it has its strengths and weaknesses. Here’s a round-up of the pros and cons based on user experiences and professional reviews.

Pros:

1. Fast Preheating Time: The Volt 12 reaches 932°F (500°C) in just 15 minutes. This significantly reduces the waiting time and allows you to cook pizzas quicker.
2. Easy to Use: With an electric power source, it’s as simple as plugging in the oven and adjusting the temperature. This makes it an excellent choice for beginners or anyone looking for convenience.
3. Excellent Temperature Control: The electric nature of the Volt 12 ensures consistent heat, providing excellent temperature control and ensuring evenly cooked pizzas every time.
4. Boost Function: This unique feature superheats the stone for 90 seconds, achieving that perfect, crispy pizza crust.
5. Versatility: While it’s designed for pizzas, you can also use it for cooking a variety of other dishes, increasing its overall usability.
6. Compact and Portable: Its design makes it perfect for both indoor and outdoor use, and it’s easy to transport, making it a great choice for those who love to cook pizzas on the go.

Cons:

1. Not Multi-Fuel: Unlike some other Ooni models, the Volt 12 doesn’t offer a multi-fuel option. If you’re looking for the smoky flavor that comes with wood or charcoal cooking, this model might not be your first choice.
2. Cost: The Volt 12 is Ooni’s most expensive oven. While it offers excellent performance and features, it might not fit all budgets.

Remember, choosing a pizza oven is largely dependent on individual needs and preferences. The Ooni Volt 12 stands out for its temperature control, versatility, and convenience. However, if a multi-fuel option or a lower price point is your priority, you might want to explore other options in the market.

Final Verdict

This oven stands as an impressive leap in the world of at-home pizza cooking, especially for those looking for convenience and consistency. Its quick preheating time, easy temperature control, and versatility make it a stellar choice, not just for pizzas, but for a variety of other dishes as well. The unique boost function is a feature I personally loved, as it allows you to achieve that perfect, restaurant-quality crust.

While it doesn’t offer a multi-fuel option and might be a bit steeply priced for some, the convenience and quality it offers certainly justifies the investment for pizza lovers.

For beginners looking for an easy entry into the world of pizza ovens, or for experienced cooks wanting a portable oven with consistent results, the Ooni Volt 12 serves as an excellent choice. It’s perfect for those who value convenience and consistency over the smoky flavor of wood-fired ovens.

With all factors considered, I give the Ooni Volt 12 Electric Pizza Oven a solid 8.5 out of 10. If convenience, temperature control, and a versatile cooking experience are your top priorities, this pizza oven is a brilliant investment. Happy pizza cooking, everyone!

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