The culinary tool, typically crafted from ceramic, stone, or composite materials, serves as a baking surface within an oven. Its primary function is to replicate the cooking conditions of a traditional brick oven. For instance, a home baker might use such an implement to achieve a crisper crust on a homemade pizza.
This baking aid offers enhanced heat retention and distribution compared to metal baking sheets. This leads to a more evenly cooked and textured final product. Historically, similar surfaces have been employed in baking for centuries, demonstrating an enduring method of heat management in cooking.