Pizzelle Recipe

Pizzelle are delicate and crispy Italian waffle cookies, flavored with vanilla or anise. They’re perfect for holidays, celebrations, or simply enjoying with a cup of coffee or tea. This recipe yields about 24 pizzelle, depending on the size of your pizzelle maker.

Ingredients:

• 3 large eggs
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (or anise extract, if preferred)
• 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• Pinch of salt

Equipment Needed:

• Pizzelle maker (electric or stovetop)
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk or electric mixer
• Cooling rack

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Batter

1. Mix Eggs and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs and granulated sugar together until smooth and creamy.
2. Add Butter and Flavoring: Gradually add the melted butter and vanilla extract (or anise extract) to the egg mixture. Mix until well combined.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
4. Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the egg mixture, stirring until a smooth batter forms. The batter should be thick and sticky.

Step 2: Heat the Pizzelle Maker

1. Preheat Pizzelle Maker: If using an electric pizzelle maker, preheat according to manufacturer’s instructions. If using a stovetop pizzelle iron, heat over medium-low heat.

Step 3: Cook the Pizzelle

1. Portion the Batter: Drop about 1 tablespoon of batter onto the center of each patterned circle of the preheated pizzelle maker. Adjust the amount of batter according to the size of your pizzelle maker.
2. Cook: Close the lid and cook for about 30-45 seconds, or until the pizzelle are golden brown and lightly crisp. Cooking time may vary depending on your pizzelle maker or iron.
3. Remove and Cool: Carefully remove the cooked pizzelle using a heatproof spatula or fork. Transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. They will continue to crisp up as they cool.
4. Repeat: Continue cooking the remaining batter, greasing the pizzelle maker lightly with cooking spray or butter between batches to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Serve and Store

1. Serve: Once cooled, serve the pizzelle as is or dust with powdered sugar for a decorative touch.
2. Store: Store cooled pizzelle in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay crisp for several days, making them perfect for enjoying over time or gifting.

Tips for Perfect Pizzelle

• Flavor Variations: Experiment with different extracts such as almond, lemon, or orange zest for unique flavors.
• Shaping: While still warm and pliable, you can shape pizzelle into cones or cylinders using a pizzelle roller or by draping them over a rolling pin.

Conclusion

Enjoy the delicate crunch and delightful flavor of homemade Pizzelle with this simple and traditional recipe. Whether for a special occasion or a cozy afternoon treat, these Italian waffle cookies are sure to be a hit!