Pizzelle are traditional Italian waffle cookies that are popular during the holidays and other special occasions. These thin, crispy cookies are lightly sweetened and flavored with vanilla or anise. They are cooked using a special pizzelle iron, which gives them their distinctive patterned appearance. Making pizzelle at home is easy and requires just a few simple ingredients. Follow this recipe to create delicious pizzelle that your family and friends will love!
Ingredients for Pizzelle:
- 3 large eggs
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract or anise extract
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
How to make Pizzelle:
- In a large bowl, beat the eggs and sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Stir in the melted butter and vanilla extract.
- Sift the flour and baking powder together, then gradually add it to the egg mixture, stirring until well combined.
- The batter should be thick enough to be dropped by spoonfuls onto the pizzelle iron. If it is too thick, add a little more melted butter. If it is too thin, add a little more flour.
- Preheat your pizzelle iron according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Drop a tablespoon of batter onto the center of each patterned circle on the iron.
- Close the iron and cook the pizzelle for about 30-45 seconds, or until golden brown.
- Use a fork to carefully remove the pizzelle from the iron and transfer them to a wire rack to cool.
- Repeat with the remaining batter, making sure to re-grease the iron as needed.
About the main ingredients:
- Eggs: Provide structure and help the pizzelle hold their shape.
- Sugar: Sweetens the cookies and helps them to brown.
- Butter: Adds richness and flavor to the pizzelle.
- Vanilla or anise extract: Provides flavor to the cookies. Anise extract is traditional in pizzelle but can be substituted with vanilla extract if desired.
- Flour: Gives the pizzelle structure and texture.
- Baking powder: Helps the pizzelle to rise slightly and become light and crispy.
Enjoy your homemade pizzelle as a sweet treat with a cup of coffee or tea, or give them as gifts during the holiday season!
