Description
Classic Pizzelle are traditional Italian waffle cookies known for their delicate crisp texture and subtle anise or almond flavor. Made with simple ingredients like eggs, sugar, butter, and flour, these thin, patterned cookies are cooked using a specialized pizzelle iron until golden and crisp. Perfect for dusting with powdered sugar or serving with sweet fillings, they make an elegant treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 3 large Eggs
- 3/4 cup Granulated Sugar
- 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
- 1 teaspoon Anise Extract (or almond extract for a different flavor)
- 1 3/4 cups All-Purpose Flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons Baking Powder
- Pinch of Salt
Optional
- Powdered Sugar, for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat the Pizzelle Iron: Preheat your pizzelle iron according to the manufacturer’s instructions. If you do not have a pizzelle iron, a waffle maker may be used as an alternative.
- Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs and granulated sugar thoroughly until the mixture becomes light and frothy. Next, add the melted butter, vanilla extract, and anise (or almond) extract. Stir well until everything is fully combined.
- Add the Dry Ingredients: Sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt in a separate bowl. Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, gently mixing until a smooth, homogeneous batter forms.
- Cook the Pizzelle: Lightly grease the pizzelle iron by spraying it with cooking spray or brushing with melted butter. Spoon approximately 1 tablespoon of batter (adjust based on iron size) onto the center of the iron. Close the lid and cook for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, or until the pizzelle turn a golden brown color.
- Cool the Pizzelle: Carefully remove the cooked pizzelle from the iron and place them on a wire rack to cool. Allow them to crisp up fully as they cool. Optionally, dust with powdered sugar before serving.
- Serve: Enjoy the pizzelle plain or use them as a base for fillings like whipped cream, mascarpone, or chocolate for a delightful treat.
Notes
- Use anise extract for traditional flavor or substitute almond extract for a nutty variation.
- If you don’t have a pizzelle iron, a waffle maker can be used, but the texture and pattern will differ.
- Ensure the batter is smooth to avoid lumps in your pizzelle.
- Lightly greasing the iron helps prevent sticking and makes removal easier.
- Store pizzelle in an airtight container to maintain crispness.
