Pizzelle

Pizzelle—thin waffle cookies made just like cones for ice cream—are a holiday tradition just like gingerbread or glazed Italian Christmas cookies. They're made one at a time on a small pizzelle iron that gives these waffle cookies their beautiful pattern. As they cool, they become wonderfully light and crisp. While Italians might stick to the classic, we couldn't resist playing with a few fun flavors. Add rainbow jimmies to the batter for confetti pizzelle or reduce the amount of flour and add cocoa powder for a rich, chocolate version. This Italian Christmas dessert is lovely dipped in a hot cup of coffee (or hot chocolate!), or eaten alongside a bowl of eggnog ice cream. 

How are pizzelle cookies made?

Pizzelle are made on a pizzelle iron, which works a lot like a waffle iron. Add the batter to the heated iron (it usually only needs to be greased for the first batch), then close and cook for about 90 seconds. Carefully remove the finished cookie and lay in a single layer on a wire rack to cool completely (stacked cookies could stick together or break). Pizzelle will be soft when they are first removed from the iron and will quickly crisp up as they cool. 

What do pizzelle cookies taste like?

Pizzelle are not just made like waffle cones—they taste like them too! Some pizelle contain anise and have a distinct licorice taste, but these simply taste like a thin, crispy buttery cookie perfumed with delicious almond extract.

Can you make pizzelle without a pizzelle iron?

This is a case where the tool is as key as the recipe: You really need one to make the other. Luckily, great irons are available for between $12 and $50. Besides cookies at Christmas, you can also bend warm pizzelle into shells to make cannoli any time of year. 

What's the best way to store pizzelle cookies?

Pizzelle can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to a week. Wait until just before serving to dust them with powdered sugar.