Classic Pizzelle
Pizzelle are thin, crisp Italian waffle cookies traditionally made for holidays, special occasions, or as a simple sweet treat with coffee or tea. These delicate cookies are lightly flavored, often with anise, vanilla, or lemon, and can be served flat or shaped into cones for a fun twist.
Why You’ll Love Pizzelle
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Crispy, delicate, and lightly sweet
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Quick and easy once batter is ready
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Perfect with coffee, tea, or dessert platters
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Customizable with flavorings like vanilla, lemon, or anise
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Can be shaped into cones or tubes while warm
Ingredients
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3 large eggs
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¾ cup granulated sugar
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½ cup unsalted butter, melted
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract (or 1 teaspoon anise extract)
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1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
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2 teaspoons baking powder
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Optional: powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
1. Prepare the Batter
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In a large bowl, beat eggs and sugar until light and fluffy.
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Add melted butter and vanilla (or anise) and mix until combined.
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Gradually fold in flour and baking powder until smooth.
2. Heat the Pizzelle Iron
Preheat your pizzelle maker according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Lightly brush with oil or spray with non-stick spray if needed.
3. Cook the Pizzelle
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Drop 1 tablespoon of batter onto the center of each pizzelle iron pattern.
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Close the iron and cook 30–60 seconds, or until cookies are lightly golden.
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Carefully remove cookies using a spatula or fork.
4. Shape (Optional)
While warm, pizzelle can be shaped:
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Roll into cones to fill with cream or ice cream
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Fold into tubes for cannoli-style desserts
5. Cool and Serve
Place cookies on a wire rack to cool completely. Dust with powdered sugar if desired.
Tips for Perfect Pizzelle
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Use fresh eggs for light, airy cookies
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Don’t overfill the iron—cookies spread quickly
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Work quickly if shaping while warm
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Store in an airtight container to maintain crispness
Variations
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Lemon Pizzelle: Add 1 teaspoon lemon zest to batter
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Chocolate Pizzelle: Replace 2 tablespoons flour with cocoa powder
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Anise Pizzelle: Use anise extract for traditional Italian flavor
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Sandwich Pizzelle: Fill two cookies with Nutella, jam, or cream
Storage
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Store cooled pizzelle in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks
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Keep cookies crisp by layering with parchment paper
Serving Suggestions
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Serve with coffee or tea
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Use as cones for ice cream or cream filling
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Include on dessert platters or holiday trays
Final Thoughts
Pizzelle are a timeless Italian treat—crisp, flavorful, and perfect for both everyday snacking and festive occasions. With simple ingredients and a pizzelle iron, you can create delicate cookies that impress every time.