Pizzelle are delicate, thin Italian waffle cookies known for their intricate patterns and crisp texture. Lightly sweet and wonderfully aromatic, they are traditionally flavored with vanilla, anise, or citrus zest, making them a timeless treat enjoyed year-round.
Pizzelle:
Often associated with holidays and family celebrations, are made using a special iron that imprints beautiful snowflake or floral designs. Simple yet elegant, these cookies are perfect on their own or shaped into cones, cups, or sandwich cookies.
History:
Pizzelle are one of Italy’s oldest cookies, believed to have originated in the Abruzzo region. Traditionally prepared for weddings, festivals, and Christmas, recipes were passed down through generations. Italian immigrants later brought to the United States, where they became a beloved staple in Italian-American households.
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Pizzelle
Ingredients
- 3 large eggs
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
- 1 tsp vanilla extract or anise extract
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
Instructions
- Preheat the pizzelle iron according to manufacturer instructions.
- In a bowl, beat eggs and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Mix in melted butter and extract until combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk flour and baking powder.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture to form a soft batter.
- Drop a spoonful of batter onto the iron and close gently.
- Cook for 30–60 seconds until lightly golden.
- Remove carefully and cool on a wire rack until crisp.
Notes
- Cookies crisp fully as they cool.
- Avoid overfilling the iron to prevent overflow.
- Flavour can be adjusted easily with extracts or zest.
- Work quickly when shaping warm pizzelle.
- Store once completely cooled.
Tips for Pizzelle:
- Dust with powdered sugar for a classic finish.
- Shape warm into cones or bowls.
- Sandwich with cream or chocolate spread.
- Keep iron lightly greased for best results.
- Great addition to holiday cookie trays.
FAQs for Pizzelle:
Q1: Do I need a iron?
Yes, a pizzelle iron is essential to create the signature thin cookies and patterns.
Q2: How long do stay fresh?
They stay crisp for up to 2 weeks when stored airtight.
Q3: Can be frozen?
Yes, plain pizzelle freeze well for up to 2 months.
Q4: What flavour is traditional?
Anise is the most traditional, but vanilla is very popular.
Q5: Why are my soft?
They may need more cooling time or slightly longer cooking.
Conclusion:
Pizzelle are a timeless Italian classic—simple, elegant, and irresistibly crisp. Whether flavored with vanilla or anise, these beautifully patterned cookies bring tradition and charm to any celebration, making them a must-have for festive baking.