Pizzelle—Italian Waffle Cookie

BY Aimee Della Bitta
November 15, 2015

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Photography by Chris Rova Costa for Edible San Diego

Meet the pizelle, a traditional waffle cookie

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Pizzelle, pronounced pit-ZELL-eh, are traditional waffle cookies. The name comes from the Italian word for “round” and “flat” (pizze). The recipe below is flavored with anise extract, but vanilla or lemon extract can also be used. For this traditional Italian cookie you will need a ready-made pizzelle maker. They are available for purchase at your local Williams-Sonoma or through Amazon.com. Typically, the pizzelle maker stamps a snowflake or flower pattern onto both sides of the thin golden-brown cookie. Enjoy the cookie as is or add chocolate or hazelnut spread to the top. If feeling indulgent, make a sandwich with the cookies by adding cannoli cream to the center.

Ingredients

Makes 12-16 Cookies

3 large eggs, well beaten
¾ cup granulated sugar
¾ cup unsalted butter, melted
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 teaspoon anise extract
Powdered sugar

Instructions

In a large bowl, add and beat the ingredients in the order listed, beating well after each addition. Drop by rounded spoonfuls on the center or slightly higher, of the pre-heated pizzelle maker, about 2 tablespoons total. Close the lid and cook until the steaming stops, about 60 seconds. Remove the cookie with a fork or spatula and place on a cooling rack to dry. Repeat until all batter is gone.
Dust pizzelles with powdered sugar and serve.

Aimee Della Bitta

Aimee is a San Diego-based writer and freelance marketing consultant specializing in brand building, on-point promotional copy and creative messaging for editorial and corporate clients. She loves to try out new recipes and hang out with her two kids and husband.