Delicate and crispy, pizzelle cookies are a traditional Italian treat with a light texture and a subtle hint of anise flavor. These beautifully patterned cookies are made using a special pizzelle iron, creating thin, waffle-like treats that are perfect for holidays, celebrations, or as an everyday indulgence.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Authentic Italian Flavor – This recipe stays true to the classic, with a perfect balance of vanilla and anise.
- Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and quick cooking time make this an accessible homemade treat.
- Versatile – Can be flavored with anise, vanilla, lemon, or even chocolate.
- Great for Gifts – Their delicate, lacy appearance makes them an elegant and thoughtful homemade gift.
- Perfectly Crisp – Pizzelle are known for their crisp texture, which holds up well for days.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 3 large eggs
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon anise extract (optional)
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Directions
- Preheat your pizzelle iron according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and sugar until pale and slightly thickened, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the melted butter, vanilla extract, and anise extract (if using), and mix until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, sift together the flour and baking powder.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until a smooth batter forms.
- Drop a tablespoon of batter onto the preheated pizzelle iron, close the lid, and cook for about 30-60 seconds, or until golden brown.
- Carefully remove the pizzelle from the iron and place it on a wire rack to cool. Repeat with the remaining batter.
- Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 24 pizzelle
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Calories per serving: 120 kcal
Variations
- Chocolate Pizzelle: Add 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder to the batter for a rich chocolate flavor.
- Lemon Pizzelle: Substitute anise extract with lemon extract and add a teaspoon of lemon zest.
- Almond Pizzelle: Use almond extract instead of anise for a nutty aroma.
- Cinnamon Pizzelle: Add a teaspoon of ground cinnamon for a warm, spiced twist.
- Gluten-Free Pizzelle: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store cooled pizzelle in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
- Freezing: Freeze pizzelle in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Separate layers with parchment paper.
- Reheating: If pizzelle lose their crispness, place them in a 300°F oven for a few minutes to restore their texture.
FAQs
How do I keep pizzelle crispy?
Store them in an airtight container and avoid humidity. If they soften, reheat in a low-temperature oven.
Can I make pizzelle without a pizzelle iron?
A pizzelle iron is essential for achieving the signature thin and crisp texture. Without it, the result will not be the same.
Can I use different flavorings?
Yes! You can swap anise for almond, lemon, orange, or even rum extract.
Why are my pizzelle sticking to the iron?
Ensure your iron is properly preheated and lightly greased with butter or cooking spray before adding the batter.
Can I make pizzelle ahead of time?
Yes! They stay fresh for up to a week when stored in an airtight container.
Why are my pizzelle too soft?
They may have been undercooked. Try leaving them on the iron a few seconds longer until they turn golden brown.
Can I use oil instead of butter?
Yes, but butter provides better flavor and texture. If using oil, opt for a neutral one like vegetable or canola oil.
Are pizzelle supposed to be chewy or crispy?
Traditional pizzelle should be crisp. If they are chewy, they may need more cooking time or better storage conditions.
Can I stack pizzelle while they are hot?
No, stacking hot pizzelle can cause them to steam and lose their crispness. Let them cool on a wire rack first.
Can I turn pizzelle into ice cream cones?
Yes! While they are still warm, roll them around a cone mold to shape them into cones.
Conclusion
Classic Italian pizzelle cookies are a delightful treat that combines simplicity with elegance. Whether enjoyed on their own, dusted with powdered sugar, or shaped into cones for a fun twist, these crisp, lightly sweet cookies are perfect for any occasion. Try out different flavor variations, and enjoy this timeless Italian dessert!
Print
Classic Italian Pizzelle Cookies
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 24 pizzelle
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Classic Italian Pizzelle Cookies are delicate, crispy, and lightly sweetened with a hint of anise flavor. These traditional wafer-like cookies are made using a pizzelle iron, perfect for holidays, special occasions, or as a light and crispy treat with coffee or tea.
Ingredients
- 3 large eggs
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon anise extract (optional)
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat the Pizzelle Iron: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for heating.
- Whisk the Eggs and Sugar: In a large bowl, whisk together eggs and sugar until pale and slightly thickened (2-3 minutes).
- Add Wet Ingredients: Mix in melted butter, vanilla extract, and anise extract (if using).
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together flour and baking powder.
- Mix Batter: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until smooth.
- Cook the Pizzelle: Drop a tablespoon of batter onto the preheated pizzelle iron, close the lid, and cook for 30-60 seconds until golden brown.
- Cool & Serve: Remove the pizzelle and let them cool on a wire rack. Repeat with the remaining batter.
- Dust with Powdered Sugar: Lightly sprinkle with powdered sugar before serving.
Notes
- Anise extract is optional but adds a traditional Italian flavor.
- Pizzelle can be shaped into cones or bowls while warm for added variety.
- Store in an airtight container to maintain crispness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Cookies
- Method: Pizzelle Iron
- Cuisine: Italian
