Learn how to make delicious and crispy Italian pizzelles from scratch with this easy homemade recipe. These traditional Italian waffle cookies are perfect for any occasion, and can be enjoyed plain or flavored with vanilla, anise, or lemon extract. Pizzelles make a delightful snack with a cup of coffee or tea, and they also make beautiful presents during the holiday season. This recipe yields perfectly thin and delicate pizzelles with a delightful pattern that adds a touch of elegance to any dessert table.
Ingredients
- 3 large eggs
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
Directions
- In a large bowl, beat the eggs and sugar together until well combined and slightly frothy.
- Pour in the melted butter and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
- Add the flour and baking powder to the wet ingredients. Stir until just combined.
- Preheat the pizzelle iron according to the manufacturer's instructions.
- Drop rounded tablespoons of batter onto the center of each grid on the preheated iron.
- Close the lid and cook for about 30-45 seconds, or until the pizzelles are golden brown and crisp.
- Carefully remove the cookies from the iron using a spatula and place them on a wire rack to cool completely.
- Repeat the process with the remaining batter.
- Once the pizzelles are cool, store them in an airtight container to maintain their crispness.
- Serve and enjoy plain, or dust the pizzelles with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.
Interesting Facts
Pizzelles are a traditional Italian cookie, often made during Christmas and other festive occasions.
The word 'pizzelle' means 'small, flat, and round' in Italian.
The intricate design of pizzelles is achieved by cooking them in a special iron mold with decorative patterns.
Pizzelles originated in the Abruzzo region of Italy and have been made for centuries.
In Italy, pizzelles are often used to make ice cream cones and sandwich fillings.