Holiday Indulgences · Kid-Approved
Italian Pizzelle (Anise Waffle Cookies)
Thin, crisp Italian waffle cookies pressed in a pizzelle iron into pretty snowflake patterns, flavored with anise (or vanilla). A cherished Italian Christmas tradition.
Diet swaps
- Gluten-free: Use a gluten-free flour blend (or cornstarch to thicken).
- Dairy-free: Use olive oil or dairy-free butter instead of butter.
Check labels on packaged foods if you have an allergy or celiac disease.
Ingredients
- 3 Eggs
- 1/2 cup Sugar
- 1/4 cup Butter, melted and cooled
- 1 1/2 cups All-purpose flour
- 1 tsp Anise extract (or 1 tbsp anise seed, or vanilla)
- 1 tsp Baking powder
Directions
- Beat the eggs and sugar until thick, then beat in the melted butter and anise.
- Stir in the flour and baking powder to make a thick batter.
- Heat and lightly grease a pizzelle iron. Drop 1 heaping tablespoon of batter slightly behind center, close and bake 30 to 45 seconds, until pale golden.
- Cool flat on a rack, where they crisp up. Dust with powdered sugar if you like.
Calorie breakdown
Per cookie: flour 23 · butter 14 · sugar 13 · eggs 7 · anise 1
💡 Lighter tip: While still warm and soft, roll pizzelle around a wooden spoon handle to make cannoli-style shells.
Helpful for this recipe
Pizzelle makerShop on Amazon →Anise extractShop on Amazon →How to choose real extra virgin olive oilRead the guide →Our guide to safe, non-toxic cookwareSee picks →