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Pizzelle della Nonna: A Classic Italian Cookie Recipe

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4.3 from 41 reviews

Pizzelle della Nonna are traditional Italian wafer cookies known for their delicate crisp texture and subtle anise flavor. These classic cookies are quick to make with simple ingredients and are perfect for festive occasions or everyday treats. The recipe uses a pizzelle iron to create thin, intricate patterned cookies that melt in your mouth.

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: Approximately 24 pizzelle cookies

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients

  • 1¼ cups all-purpose flour (177 grams)
  • ¾ teaspoon baking powder
  • Pinch of salt

Wet Ingredients

  • 3 eggs, room temperature
  • ½ cup sugar (100 grams)
  • ¼ cup vegetable oil
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon anise extract (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Batter: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and sugar until the mixture is pale and slightly thickened. Gradually add the vegetable oil, vanilla extract, and optional anise extract and mix well to combine.
  2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt to ensure they are well mixed and aerated.
  3. Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients: Slowly fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently until a smooth batter forms without lumps. Avoid overmixing to keep the batter light.
  4. Preheat the Pizzelle Iron: Plug in and preheat the pizzelle iron according to the manufacturer’s instructions, lightly greasing the plates if necessary to prevent sticking.
  5. Cook the Pizzelle Cookies: Drop approximately one tablespoon of batter onto the center of each pizzelle iron plate. Close the lid and cook for about 30-45 seconds or until the cookies are golden and crisp.
  6. Cool and Store: Carefully remove the cooked pizzelle with a spatula and place them on a wire rack to cool completely, allowing them to crisp up further. Once cooled, store them in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Notes

  • For a more pronounced anise flavor, increase the anise extract to 1½ teaspoons.
  • The batter thickness can vary depending on flour brand; if too thick, add a tablespoon of milk to loosen slightly.
  • Pizzelle cookies can be shaped into tubes or baskets while warm for an elegant presentation.
  • Use a dedicated pizzelle iron for best results; substitute with a waffle iron will give different texture and thickness.
  • Ensure eggs are at room temperature to help better emulsify the batter.
  • Author: Madelynn
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian