Papa Joe's Pizzelles

My Poppop (also known as Papa Joe) makes these Italian cookies for just about any occasion. Before I went back to Penn State, I wanted to learn his recipe (and also take a few cookies back with me!) My Italian side of the family hails from the Abruzzo region of Italy- in the province of Teramo to be specific. Pizzelles originated in this central region of Italy so I like to think our recipe is traditional.

He adds anise flavoring to make them really authentic. If you've never tasted anise it has a flavor similar to a fennel bulb. But after a quick google search, anise doesn't come from fennel. (The Plant Science Major side of me was curious)

One setback of making pizzelles is that you need a Pizzelle Maker or at least a waffle iron with a pizzelle setting. These makers run for about $30 but they are a good investment especially if you plan on making dozens and dozens of these cookies. And a well built pizzelle maker will last you a while; my Poppop's  has to be over 10 years old.

My Poppop's Cuisinart Pizzelle Maker

Hope you enjoy this family favorite! 

Ingredients: Yields about 7 dozen cookies

All Purpose Flour--- 3.5 CUPS
Baking Powder--- 1 TBSP
Eggs--- 6 (large)
Sugar--- 1.5 CUPS
Butter---1 CUP
Anise Extract--- 2 TBSP
Non-stick Spray


STEP BY STEP:

• 1. Melt butter and mix with eggs and sugar. Should have a smooth and pale yellow color.

• 2. Add flour and baking powder until evenly mixed. (Add about 1/2 cup of Flour at a time)

• Lastly, add the anise and mix until smooth. Be sure to not leave any flour lumps in the batter. Should be the same consistency as pancake batter.

• Heat pizzelle maker and cover irons with non-stick spray

• Dollop pizzelle batter onto the bottom iron and press down with the top iron 
• Most pizzelle makers have a light to indicate when fully cooked

• Carefully remove pizzelle from the iron (should be somewhat flimsy like a pancake)

• Let pizzelles cool until firm. For the best flavor, store pizzelles in a cookie tin and let season over night. 

In Italy, these cookies are served after dinner with wine.