Description
Classic Italian Pizzelle Cookies are delicate, crisp waffle-like cookies traditionally flavored with anise. Made from a simple batter of eggs, sugar, butter, and flour, they are cooked in a pizzelle iron until golden brown. Perfect for holidays or special occasions, these thin, aromatic cookies offer a light crunch and a sweet, subtly licorice-infused taste. You can customize the flavor by substituting anise extract with almond or lemon extract, making them versatile and delightful treats.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 3 large eggs
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon anise extract (optional)
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Whisk Eggs and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, whisk the eggs and sugar together until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, which helps incorporate air and lends a delicate texture to the pizzelle.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Stir in the melted and cooled butter, vanilla extract, and anise extract if using. Mix thoroughly until all wet ingredients are well combined.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening agent and seasoning.
- Combine Batter: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until a smooth, cohesive batter forms without lumps.
- Preheat Pizzelle Iron: Heat your pizzelle iron according to the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure even cooking and crisp texture.
- Cook Pizzelle: Drop about 1 tablespoon of batter onto the center of each mold on the iron. Close the lid and cook for 30 to 45 seconds or until the pizzelle are golden brown and crisp.
- Cool: Using a spatula, carefully remove the cooked pizzelle and transfer them to a wire rack. Let them cool completely to firm up their characteristic crispness.
- Repeat: Continue cooking the remaining batter in the same manner, making sure the iron is properly heated for each batch.
Notes
- You can substitute anise extract with almond or lemon extract for a different flavor profile.
- For extra crispy pizzelle, allow them to cool completely in a single layer on a wire rack.
- Store pizzelle in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week to maintain freshness.
