With over ten years of experience as a chef, I’ve perfected the art of crafting pizzas at my restaurant, Dequte Restaurant LironBoylston. Over the years, I’ve tested a wide range of pizza ovens, and after several months of using the Cru Oven Model 32, I’ve gathered in-depth insights into its performance and capabilities.
I admit, when you hear the brand name Cru, it can be quite unfamiliar. They’re new to the pizza oven industry, but they have been getting popular recently. They have three ovens to choose from, and all have different features with different pricepoints. The one that got my attention specifically is their middle option, which is the Cru 32 Model. Made of strong stainless steel and shaped like a barrel, this oven is loved for its ability to do many things, its big cooking area, quick heating, and easy cleaning. But at $825 regular price or $775 on sale, some wonder if it’s worth the cost.
In my review of the Cru Oven Model 32 Pizza Oven, I assessed its quality and materials, temperature control, shape, first-time usage impressions, power source, size, ease of cleaning, and performed a real pizza cooking test to see how long it takes to cook. For a detailed overview of my testing process and expertise, please refer to my article: “How I Test Pizza Ovens.”
Disclaimer: This review includes affiliate links to the Cru Oven Model 32 Pizza Oven. If you purchase through these links, I’ll earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. My review, however, is entirely based on my hands-on experience as a professional chef with over ten years in the restaurant industry. The affiliate links do not influence my opinions or the honest feedback shared here.
Features Of The Cru Oven Model 32 Oven
The Cru Oven Model 32 Oven has several features that help it stand out:
- The Cru 32 has a big hole for the oven, so you will not have a lot of problems cooking different dishes at once.
- You can simply take off the dome to clean out the ashes from the oven and move it around. It also is useful in storing the oven when you are not using it.
- It’s made in Portugal using good quality materials and a mix of new and old production processes.
Product Specifications
| Dimensions: | 22″L x 20″W x 17″H |
| Cooking Surface: | 20″L x 16″W |
| Opening Size: | 11.8″H |
| Weight: | 56lbs |
Assembly And Usability Of The Cru Oven Model 32 Oven
Putting together the Cru 32 Wood Fired Oven is a bit of work. But don’t worry, it’s super easy. Their website even claims it’ll take just a minute to assemble. Just place the base in a good spot and put the hood on top of it, insert two pizza stone halves, attach the flue/door, and you’re finished.
And remember, to be able to cook with it, you must also watch the internal thermometer and wait for it to get hot enough for cooking. When it’s hot enough, slide your pizza in. Turn it every so often to make sure it cooks evenly. Once it’s done, take it out and enjoy. Add more fuel if you need to heat things up again before baking the next one. After you’re done cooking, let the fire die down and the oven cool off before cleaning it.
Unboxing And First Impressions Of The Cru Oven Model 32 Oven
When I unpacked the Cru 32 G2 Pizza Oven, I noticed some important things about how it’s made like the oven has a big hole that can fit probably a 15” pizza or even a grill or big pots for cooking. You can also bake big loaves of bread in it because it is taller than other ovens. Though, it is very useful,it can let out heat. They have a door to help keep some heat in while still letting air through.
There are two handles on top to help you carry it around. And what is good is that the top part comes off, so you can clean out any mess inside. I like that they kept it simple so there are fewer things that could break. The only thing you might need to replace is the pizza stones if they break which is probably why you get two stones for baking pizzas.The door is also a bit thinner than the rest of the oven.
Overall, it’s a well-thought design that makes cooking easy without making things complicated.
Quality And Materials Of The Cru Oven Model 32 Oven
Based on their website, all of the Cru ovens are made in Portugal, using methods and materials that have been proven to be efficient. When it comes to the Cru 32, I noticed it’s built from a strong dual layer of durable 304 stainless steel, along with ceramic fiber insulation and Cordierite pizza stones. From what I’ve seen, these ovens seem really tough and can handle lots of heat and use for many years.
Shape And Its Importance For Pizza Cooking
The stainless steel, barrel-shaped oven is designed to evenly cook pizzas by improving airflow and heat circulation. Its unique shape prevents hot spots, so the crust crisps up perfectly while the toppings cook evenly. This makes it easy to have restaurant-quality pizzas every time.
Temperature Control Of The Cru Oven Model 32 Oven
Although Cru says the oven reaches 900°F in about 30 minutes, I found it takes closer to 40 minutes to heat properly. To keep the heat steady, I check the temperature gauge and the pizza stone heat between bakes. It’s also helpful to preheat for 45 minutes to reduce the need for reheating between bakes.
Using Cru Oven Model 32 Oven For The First Time
The first time I tried using the whole CPU Model 32 was like a mixed experience. It was set up easily. But instead of the expected time span of 30 minutes, it took 40 minutes to preheat the oven for cooking. After heating up, however, it did a very good job cooking the pizza within minutes and with even results. Cleaning was also not a problem. With the dome off, the oven was clean in two minutes. Despite the difficulties, my first experience using the CPU Model 32 was a successful one, which makes me look forward to future outdoor cooking.
Power source of Cru Oven Model 32 Oven and what makes the best pizza?
I have personally only used wood. But there is the option to use charcoal if you want or if you want to be able to start your fire more easily. Having that extra choice adds a certain amount of flexibility to the oven’s use.
For me, a really tasty pizza has a nice smoky flavor, especially when it comes from a wood-fired oven. And the CPU Model 32 is just such a good example that can bake good pizzas.
Size Of Cru Oven Model 32 Oven
The Cru 32 oven is more versatile than the 30 model because it has a bigger cooking space. With an opening this wide, 16 inches (ca. 41 cm) by 11.8 inches (40 cm x 30 cm), you can cook larger cuts of meat and several dishes at once.
How to clean the Cru Oven Model 32 Oven?
Based on my experience, one of the best things about this oven is how easy it is to clean. The removable dome makes this oven stand out from others.
Once your oven has cooled down completely, just use the handles to lift off the dome. This will expose the inside of the oven. Sweep away any ash and embers, and take out the Cordite pizza stones to clean separately. Brush and wipe the stainless steel inside until it’s all clean from soot and ash. Then put everything back together, and it’s ready for the next dish.
Is it possible to use the Cru Oven Model 32 Oven inside the house?
It’s not a good idea to use this indoors. Since it’s fueled by wood, it’s probably better to use it outside. However, as an all-round wood-fired oven the Cru 32 is wonderful for outdoor cooking.
How much time does the Cru Oven Model 32 Oven take to make a Margherita pizza?
For classic Margherita pizzas, take it in 90 seconds to 2 minutes to cook it. A temperature of about 800°F – 900°F is best for authentic brick oven pizza. Be sure to rotate the pizza around evenly using a pizza turner,
Based on my experience, when cooking, it’s also important to use the half door. I’ve found that trying to cook pizzas without it for better visibility doesn’t give as good results compared to attaching it later.
Pre-Heating Time On The Cru Oven Model 32 Oven
Cru says their oven can get as hot as 900°F in about 30 minutes and cooks a tasty Neapolitan-style pizza in just 90 seconds. But from what I’ve seen, it actually takes closer to 40 minutes to get properly heated up for pizza.
These are pretty good speeds for a wood-fired pizza oven. But because of the wide opening (the door helps, but it’s not insulated), this oven can lose heat while cooking. So if you plan on making multiple pizzas, I’d suggest checking the temperature gauge and the heat of the pizza stone between each bake to make sure it’s properly reheated. Starting with a 45-minute preheat can also help reduce the need for reheating between bakes.
What else can you cook in the Cru Oven Model 32 Oven?
Based on my experience, the Cru 32 can cook more than just pizza. Since it has a big interior, two doors, and has a grill attachment, there are a lot of dishes you can make with this. For more ideas about how to use the goods, just do what I did:
- Put the fire in the back, and put pastries like croissants or cinnamon rolls right on the pizza stones. Use the half-door to see how your pastries are baking.
- Move the fire to one side, slide in a baking tray or casserole dish, and close it with the full door. This is excellent for dishes such as lasagna, quiche or stuffed peppers.
- Put the fire in the center and insert the Cru Grill Grid. It sits above the flames and turns the stove into a grill. This is suitable for grilling chicken skewers, vegetable kebabs, fish fillets and even fruit pieces for dessert.
Drawbacks Of The Cru Oven Model 32 Oven
I noticed a couple of problems with the Cru Model 32 G2 Pizza Oven. I agree with other users complaining about the insulation, as I experienced some heat loss during cooking. It is also quite expensive especially since it is retailed at $800+. But putting those issues aside, I still think it’s a good choice for outdoor cooking because it’s versatile and has a good performance.
Price Of The Cru Oven Model 32 Oven
The Cru Model 32 is currently on sale at the company’s official site. You can get the Cru Model 32 Oven at a discount of just $775.00 from the regular price of $825, saving you 6% and also a free Cru Gourmet Bass Wood 22″ Pizza Peel worth $50. There is also the possibility to use ShopPay so you can do 4 interest-free installments. Find the updated price on Amazon.
How does the Cru Oven Model 32 Oven compare to other outdoor pizza ovens?
I think the Cru 32 is a better oven for cooking pizza than most of the ones available in the market – it’s far better than the cheaper ones and ones you make yourself. But there’re still aspects that could be made better.
But if you compare the Cru 32 G2 with other popular propane-fired oven, it’s a different story. I think it cooks better in general and more consistently. Plus, it’s more fun if you like getting hands-on with your cooking.
But, let’s be honest, a propane oven is easier to use and is more convenient. You don’t have to deal with refilling the pellets and tending to a fire; just flip a couple of switches and wait 15 minutes. I’ll admit, the Cru 32 G2 takes a bit longer to heat up compared to the propane oven.
In the end, it all depends on what kind of cooking experience you want.
User Reviews Of The Cru Oven Model 32 Oven
Aside from some minor complaints, like a bad insulation, and that it is quite expensive. There have been instances where users needed a new stone for the Cru oven. One user mentioned that one of the stones broke, and they were looking to purchase a new set. Additionally, some users have reported issues with the oven cover popping off when it reaches temperature, and difficulties in keeping it in place. Check out more feedback on Amazon, Reddit or Youtube—lots of great reviews await!
My Cooking Tips For The Cru Oven Model 32 Oven
- Light the wood at the center of the cooking surface to start the fire. It takes 15-20 minutes to get a good burn. Add more wood to keep it hot.
- Rotate your pizzas regularly
- Make sure to keep checking the temperature.
Is The Cru Oven Model 32 Oven Worth It?
Like everything else, it has its good and bad sides. Here’s the main things you need to know if the Cru Oven Model 32 would be perfect for you:
Pros:
- Big cooking area
- Sleek appearance
- Easy to clean
Cons:
- Expensive
- Need to reheat the stone several times
Chef’s Opinions
There is plenty of cooking space, and it comes with a useful grill attachment. I like the design and how easily the hood is removed for cleaning. I’ve found that it heats up quickly and bakes pizzas well, which is something that other premium stoves like Gozney Roccbox also offer.
However, I also found it does not burn off heat as well as those higher-end stoves with better insulation and a smaller interior space. But still don’t forget that while that may be the case, the Cru 32’s price is just right for people looking into mid-range wood-fired stoves. It’s good enough for backyard use and can be easily moved when needed since it is light. Plus, it’s great for anyone who wants an all-in-one oven, and barbecue. But If you really want something better, then I recommend seeing the Gozney Roccbox pizza oven.
Should you purchase it, I’d appreciate it if you use my referral link.