Pizzelle cookies have their origins in the Abruzzo region of Italy, dating back hundreds of years as one of the country’s oldest traditional cookies. These thin, crisp waffle-like cookies were originally made using simple ingredients such as flour, sugar, eggs, butter, and anise or vanilla for flavor. Traditionally, pizzelle were cooked on a special iron press over an open flame, a method passed down through generations. Often prepared for festive occasions, holidays, and weddings, pizzelle symbolize Italian heritage and family traditions. Over time, their popularity spread across Italy and to Italian-American communities, where they remain a beloved treat enjoyed for their delicate texture and aromatic flavor.

Discover a simple recipe for Pizzelle, the timeless Italian cookie that offers a delicate sweetness and delightful vanilla or anise flavor. With just 6 ingredients and a pizzelle maker, you can easily recreate this classic treat. Pizzelles hold the distinction of being the oldest known cookies, believed to have originated in the Abruzzo region of south-central Italy during ancient times as part of an annual celebration. The name "Pizzelle" is derived from the Italian word "Pizze," meaning round and flat. Initially, these cookies were made on irons crafted by blacksmiths, which is why pizzelle makers are commonly referred to as "irons." Throughout the years, pizzelles have become synonymous with holidays , particularly during Christmas and Easter.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Servings: 32 cookies
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 3/4 cups butter melted
  • 4 eggs
  • 1 tbsp anise extract
  • 1 tbsp vanilla or almond extract
  • 2 tsp baking powder

Equipment

  • 1 pizzelle maker

Method
 

  1. Preheat pizzelle iron and lightly coat with nonstick cooking spray.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine eggs and sugar, then beat them together. Incorporate the cooled butter, vanilla, and anise into the mixture. Sift the flour and baking powder together and add them to the egg mixture. The batter should have a firm consistency that allows it to be dropped by spoonful.
  3. Take approximately 1 heaping teaspoon of batter and place it onto each grid of the Pizzelle iron. Bake the pizzelles according to the instructions specific to your Pizzelle iron. To keep pizzelles crisp, store in an airtight container.
  4. Using a nonstick spatula, carefully transfer each pizzelle to a cooling rack. Repeat this process with the remaining batter. Allow the pizzelles to cool completely. If desired, you can dust them with powdered sugar for added sweetness.