Delicate. Thin. Crispy. Wafer like. This is how I would describe this classic, authentic Italian cookie: Pizzelle della Nonna. This easy, simple, no butter recipe can be flavored with vanilla, anise, or even chocolate. Your search for the perfect pizzelle recipe is over!
According to history, the first pizzelle cookies were made in the region of Abruzzo (geographically located in Central Italy) back in the 8th century.
These highly recognizable flat Italian cookies get their shape by flattening the batter between two hot iron plates (just like waffles). These plates (rectangular or round) often had the pattern of the family crest engraved on them.
Nowadays, the pizzelle maker’s imprint is a geometric/waffle design, a flower, or a snowflake pattern.
This authentic family recipe I am sharing today is made without butter and classically flavored with anise and vanilla. Over decades of experimenting, I have created different variations, including a chocolate pizzelle and a vegan pizzelle recipe.
Although traditionally made at Christmas, my nonna would make them throughout the year simply because they were everyone’s favorite Italian cookie.
It’s time to dust off that old pizzelle maker and make some classic Italian cookies!
Jump to:
Pizzelle ingredients
- Eggs: The foundation of the batter, eggs provide structure and moisture. They help create the light, crisp texture that pizzelle are known for.
- Sugar: Adding sweetness to the pizzelle, sugar also contributes to the cookie’s caramelization, giving it a lovely golden hue.
- Flour: This essential ingredient forms the bulk of the batter, creating the cookie’s base. All-purpose flour works perfectly, providing the right balance of strength and tenderness.
- Oil: Unlike some recipes that use butter, this family recipe uses vegetable oil, which makes the cookies slightly lighter and gives them a delightful, crispy texture.
- Essence: Flavoring is key in pizzelle. Vanilla essence adds a warm, sweet note, while anise essence imparts a distinctive, aromatic licorice flavor. Together, they create a harmonious and nostalgic taste profile.
The quantities and the type of fat used will determine the texture and thickness of these cookies. As for the flavoring, it really is a question of taste. My personal preference is the flavor of my childhood, vanilla and anise.
Let me show you how you can easily make the best pizzelle recipe with a pizzelle maker.
Instructions
Begin by whisking the three room-temperature eggs until they begin to thicken. Next, add the granulated sugar (½ cup) and whisk for a few minutes. As you can see, I like to use my whisk. If it is easier for you to use your stand mixer, use the whisk attachment.
Next, add the vegetable oil (¼ cup ), vanilla extract (1 teaspoon) and anise extract (1 teaspoon).
Moving right along, whisk in the dry ingredients, which consist of flour (1¼ cups), baking powder (¾ teaspoon) and salt (just a pinch).
That’s it! You now have the perfect pizzelle batter.
Now for the fun part!
Preheat the pizzelle iron. Depending on your model, this usually takes just a few minutes.
Your model will also dictate whether or not you need to use cooking spray. As you can see, my pizzelle iron has a non-stick coating, so I do not use any.
Once your pizzelle iron is hot, drop about one tablespoon of dough in the middle of each plate. Lower the upper heated element and press. You may notice some steam escaping from the sides of your pizzelle maker, this is normal. It’s also normal to hear a sizzling sound. When both subside, your cookies are done.
In order to avoid scratching the non-stick plates, use a non-metal utensil to remove the pizzelle. Transfer to a cooling rack and allow to cool down. Repeat this procedure with the rest of the dough.
What to make with pizzelle cookies
When they are removed from the iron plate and still warm, they are extremely malleable. You have a few seconds to obtain any desired shape, which you can use to create wonderful pizzelle desserts. Transform the shape from flat to curvy.
Here are a few dessert ideas:
- Edible bowls: Make a bowl or cup by pressing the freshly made, still-warm pizzelle inside a bowl. In just a few seconds, you have a crisp bowl shape that can be filled with ice cream or whipped sweet ricotta and topped with roasted strawberries or even macerated strawberries. Add some blueberries, and it becomes the perfect dessert for the 4th of July!
- Pizzelle cannoli: To make a cannoli shell, wrap the “hot off the press” still-warm pizzelle around a wooden dowel or cannoli tube. Once they harden, you can fill them with whipped ricotta and sprinkle them with icing sugar.
- Pizzelle waffle cones: Use a cone-shaped mold to shape the hot pizzelles. Notice how within seconds, the pizzelle harden. Fill with ice cream or any other filling to make the perfect summer treat.
Tips
- This recipe comes together easily in a bowl. Although there is no need to use a stand or hand-held mixer, please use one if it is easier.
- Individual makers have different heating elements, so consult your owners’ manual for guidelines on specific times. It usually takes approximately 45 seconds to obtain light golden brown cookies.
- As an option, dust the pizzelle with powdered sugar just before serving.
FAQ
Yes. Replace the 1 teaspoon of anise extract with ¼ teaspoon of anise oil.
Yes. Use 1 cup of flour sifted with ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder (eliminate the anise flavor-only use vanilla). You can find the full recipe details in this article on chocolate pizzelle.
A pizzelle iron is essential for achieving the traditional thin, crispy texture and pattern. Unfortunately, a waffle maker or a similar appliance does not work.
If your pizzelle have softened, you can re-crisp them in the oven. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Arrange the pizzelle in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake them for about 5-10 minutes. Let them cool completely on a wire rack before enjoying them.
You can easily freeze pizzelle for up to 3 months. When they are at room temperature, wrap them in groups of 4-5 first in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Then, place them in a freezer container to avoid being crushed in the freezer. Label and freeze.
What is the secret to obtaining the perfect pizzelle that stay crispy?
- as soon as they are removed from the pizzelle maker, lay them flat and allow them to cool completely (you can use a cooling rack);
- do not stack them, as the steam will cause them to lose their crispiness;
- once you are done, allow them to air dry for a few hours.
How do I store pizzelles so that they stay nice and crisp?
- wrap in aluminum foil;
- place in cookie or coffee tins;
- place in paper bags.
Pizzelle, stored in this manner, will stay well for a few weeks. Whatever you do, do not place them in a plastic or airtight container (like Tupperware), as they will get soft.
Authentic Italian Cookies
There’s nothing quite like the taste of authentic Italian cookies, and I’ve grown up enjoying many of your favorite recipes. From classic S cookies and almond biscotti to lemon knot cookies and anise biscotti, a delightful variety of Italian cookies await you to bake and savor all year round.
Recipe inspiration
In my nonna’s Italian dialect, she would refer to these simple cookies as “ferratelle.”
My dad’s mother was born in Ripabottoni, in Campobasso, in the Italian region of Molise. I have many fond memories of my mom and grandmother making these special treats, especially at Christmas.
I can remember eating pizzelle faster than they could make them. Back then, my mom and grandmother would make “ferratelle” one at a time with a stovetop press with long handles. In fact, I still have the press which is pictured above.
Imagine the afternoons spent making this authentic Italian pizzelle recipe when the basic recipe called for one dozen eggs…a dozen!!!
Would you like to know my nonna’s secret to perfect pizzelles?
She stored the pizzelle in a bread box that she placed in the pantry. There was no bread in that box-only pizzelle. They were always crispy and delicious. I thought they were the best after-school snack!
When my grandmother passed away, we found a small notebook with some recipes in it. It is remarkable that a woman born in 1908 in a small village learned to read and write. This little booklet symbolizes so much more than recipes.
This is truly priceless.
I have scaled down the original recipe, but if required, it can easily be doubled…or quadrupled and stored in your bread box 🙂
Enjoy!
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THANKS SO MUCH for following and being part of the She Loves Biscotti community, where you will find Simple & Tasty Family-Friendly Recipes with an Italian Twist.
Ciao for now,
Maria
★★★★★ If you have made these Italian wafer cookies, I would love to hear about it in the comments below and be sure to rate the recipe!
Recipe
Pizzelle della Nonna
Equipment
- Pizzelle Maker
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Ingredients
- 1¼ cups all-purpose flour 177 grams
- ¾ teaspoon baking powder
- pinch salt
- 3 eggs room temperature
- ½ cup sugar 100 grams
- ¼ cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon anise extract optional
Instructions
- Preheat pizzelle iron.
- In a medium bowl, sift together flour, baking powder and salt. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl or the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the whisk attachment, beat the eggs until frothy and beginning to thicken (about 2-3 minutes).
- Add sugar. Continue to whisk until well thickened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the oil and extracts. Mix well together.
- Slowly add the flour mixture at low speed until well combined -the dough will be soft and sticky.
- Drop 1 tablespoon of batter on hot pizzelle press. You can also use a small cookie scooper.
- Close lid and cook 30 – 45 seconds or until slightly golden.
- Remove from the press with the help of a fork.
- Transfer to flat surface or mold into the desired shape.
Video
Notes
Nutrition
This post was originally published on November 24, 2014, republished on July 2, 2019, March 6, 2021 and again on May 23, 2024, with updated content and photos.
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Giuliana Di Sisto
Hi Maria,
Thank you for your dedication in general to nurturing and promoting your family’s traditions… they are mine too! 🙂
However, due to migration, I never connected much with my Nonna’s generation and have had trouble learning their recipes. You are helping me to overcome this – I LOVE your recipes. Keep them coming.
I made this one yesterday and they were dinvine! I presented them to my dear, elderly Abbruzzese friend in hospital and she appreciated them too.
One question regarding the finished product please:
Do you push down the cover of your machine during cooking, or just let it “sit” until they are cooked?
I found that if I pushed it, the final product was (obviously) thinner, biscuit-like and melted in your mouth. Whereas, those left alone were more like a soft crepe.
Thank you again Maria. 🙂
Warmest regards,
Giuliana xx
Maria
Thank you so much for your kind words Giuliana.
Yes, I absolutely agree with you… I would say it is a combination of both. When I close the cover, I give it a tight squeeze for a couple of seconds and then release the rest of the time. Thanks again for taking the time to share, appreciate it.
Linda B
First time making these and they are terrific! Will be making lots in the future.
Maria
Fantastic Linda! So glad to hear you enjoyed this pizzelle recipe. Thanks so much for taking the time to comment, appreciate it.
Yana Failla
Can this recipe be used on an iron Pizzelle maker on the stove .
Maria
Yes, in fact this is my grandmother’s recipe and that is exactly how she would make them. Thanks so much for stopping by.
Yana Failla
Thank you for your reply , I Borrowed an iron Pizzelle maker from a friend , but her recipe is plain . 🌹 Ps I haven’t made any .
Maria
My pleasure. Have fun making the pizzelle!
Marietta
THANK YOU! This recipe turned out PERFECT!! I made it just like you said. I used 1/4 t. Anise oil. I made exactly 3 dozen. NOT ONE COOKIE STUCK TO MY IRON!! I LOVE THIS RECIPE.
MY “nonna” came from Casacalenda…….NOW I understand why I love this recipe……. I cannot wait to try more of your recipes!
Maria
I am so happy to hear this Marietta! We also love this family recipe for pizzelle. How wonderful to hear we come from the same region of Italy. Thanks so much for taking the time to share your experience with this recipe. Truly appreciate it!
Angela
I am 100% Italian heritage. I had never made pizzelles with oil.. only melted margarine… these are excellent! I strongly suggest trying almond, orange and as mentioned, lemon! Thanks so so much!
Maria
My pleasure Angela. I am also 100% Italian and both my nonnas only used oil (both from Southern Italy but from different regions).
Italian regional cooking strikes again 🙂
I am thrilled to hear you enjoyed them. Yes, I agree, they all taste great. The kids really like the chocolate ones!
Thanks so much for taking the time to comment, appreciate it!
Betty
Maria
Thank you for sharing your puzzle recipe, how fun to find your grand mom ‘s recipes. I have an benefit event for a friend who had a stroke and I needed a good puzzle levels recipe. Yours sound awesome so I’m going to give it a go. Great mention about the storge of them.
If I want only vanilla do I double the amount to 2 teaspoons? Also if I’d like to try lemon do I use lemon extract and vanilla?
Betty
Maria
My pleasure Betty, I think just a touch less than 2 teaspoons should be fine… You can taste the first one you make and adjust accordingly.
Although I have never tried it, I think the combination of lemon and vanilla sounds great. Good luck with the fund raiser!
Betty
Thank you !
Betty
Oops my iPad mistype : Pizzelle
Maria
No problem… I do it all the time with autocorrect… lol.
Marjorie Rohrbach
We love the vanilla and chocolate versions. I added 1 tsp of cinnamon to the vanilla batter and they are delicious as well.
Maria
Sounds like a great variation Marjorie. Thanks so much for taking the time to comment.
Maria
Thank you so much for sharing this recipe. My parents made pizzelles often with the original stove top iron. My dad passed away a year ago and my mom suffers from Alzheimer’s and unfortunately they didn’t document recipes – it’s was all from memory. My family was missing these special cookies. I tried this recipe and it’s just like the one I grew up with. We have the original iron but use it rarely due to the time commitment required. The electronic version is not quite the same but close enough. Thank you for helping me bring the tradition back.
Maria
I’m so sorry to hear about your loss Maria. Caring for a loved one is not easy… sending you hugs.
I am so happy that the pizzelles taste like the recipe you grew up with.
Thanks so much for taking the time to comment, appreciate it ♥
Annette
I just LOVE these. When I finally bought my pizelle maker I was on the hunt for a great recipe and found yours…absolutely delish and so super easy. This recipe is phenomenal for my lactose intolerant friends. They love it that I can offer treats for them. I can make so many varieties, chocolate, lemon but my fave is vanilla. Thank you , thank you for posting this recipe…it is a keeper!
Maria
My pleasure Annette. Thanks so much for sharing your experience with this pizzelle recipe. I am thrilled to hear you are enjoying it ♥
Andrea west
I have always used a vittatano pizzelle maker but having trouble finding another one. Any suggestions? Always afraid to try a new machine. Andrea
Maria
Hi Andrea. I felt the same way after my mom’s Vitantonio pizzelle maker died on me. I bought another make but it is not the same. I am hopeful to find one in a local garage sale, the ones on ebay are very pricey. If I find anything online, I will write back to you. Thanks Andrea.
Sandra
Maire, Thank you so much for the delicious recipe. We had an Ann Marie who made these Italian treats. She is no longer with us. MY son and daughter were amazed and thrilled with this recipe. My son asked where I got them . Will think of you and your grandmother when making them. Also thanks for the storing tips. GOD BLESS Nonnie Sandra
Maria
Thanks so much for your kind words Sandra ♥ I am thrilled to hear that you all enjoyed my nonna’s Pizzelle recipe! Every time I make them it brings me right back to my childhood. Appreciate you taking the time to comment. Wishing you all a Happy Sunday 🙂