Originally developed in Southern Italy, pizzelle are believed to be one of the oldest cookies in history. While the culinary world has certainly evolved throughout the years, pizzelle have remained relatively unchanged. They’re still made with the same basic recipe and remain an important staple in Italian cuisine.
With that being said, these crispy cookies are much easier to make than they were in the past. Before the advent of modern cooking equipment, crafting pizzelle required artistic skill and great attention to detail. The most identifying feature of these cookies isn’t their taste, but rather the intricate designs and beautiful imprints.
A high-quality pizzelle maker can take care of all the hard work for you. These devices are very similar in design to traditional waffle makers. However, they are fine-tuned to produce hot pizzelle within minutes. Best of all, pizzelle makers are incredibly versatile. In addition to creating the crispy cookies you know and love, these machines can be used to create cannoli, Italian waffle cones, and much more.
The culinary market is flooded with many different options to choose from. Here’s a selection of pizzelle makers that can help you make the perfect cookie each and every time.
CuisinArt WM-PZ10 Pizzelle Press
The CuisinArt pizzelle maker is a very well-made machine. The plates are made out of durable cast aluminum, which helps to distribute heat evenly as you bake. The outside has a brushed stainless steel housing, allowing the accessory to blend in with all of your other appliances. The pizzelle maker is large enough to bake two 4-inch cookies at a time. Traditional designs can be found on both sides.
This maker is very user-friendly, even for first-time bakers. There are five settings that let you adjust the crispness of the cookies. A simple light indicator lets you know when the plates are heated up and ready for the batter. A thick locking latch keeps the lid closed for even baking. The machine includes a measuring spoon, rolling dowel, and recipe booklet to get you started.
Pros:
- Makes 4-inch pizzelle
- 5 temperature settings
- Power indicator light
- Preheat ready indicator light
- Two distinct designs
- Non-stick plates
Cons:
- Cord is on the shorter side
- May produce pizzelle that are too thick for some
CucinaPro Polished Pizzelle Maker
This pizzelle maker is very simple in design. However, it creates beautiful cookies with ease. The patterns on the baking plates are quite unique. A floral pattern is found on one side while a regal grid pattern is found on the other. The baking plates are made out of polished stainless steel. They are considerably thick, helping to keep the heat distribution even.
The machine has a single heat setting with a power indicator light. The handle on each plate is made out of thick plastic. There’s a steam guard built right in, which helps to keep your hands safe as you open and close the pizzelle maker. The locking latch is quite simple as well. It’s only a pivoting ring that goes over both handles to keep the pressure even.
Pros:
- Makes 5-inch pizzelle
- Easy operation
- Power indicator light
- Unique cookie design
- Steam guards
Cons:
- No non-stick coating
- Single temperature setting
- Flimy locking mechanism
Chef’s Choice 834 PizzellePro Toscano Pizzelle Maker
The PizzellePro Toscana from Chef’s Choice will look great on your kitchen counter. It has a stainless steel housing and durable plastic legs to keep it stable. The thick plastic handle for the top baking plate is very solid. Despite being made out of plastic, the built-in locking mechanism is tight. It helps to keep the pressure even across both cookies and prevents heat from escaping during the bake.
The baking plates are made out of smooth metal that covered in a non-stick coating. The pattern is very traditional. It features a leafy emblem on one side and a circular grid on the other. The pattern measures approximately 4.75 inches in size.
Pros:
- Durable locking mechanism
- Makes two cookies at a time
- Non-stick coating
- Tough metal housing
- Power indicator light
Cons:
- May not perform well for thicker waffles
- Single temperature setting
CucinaPro 220 – 03 Mini Pizzelle Maker
Do you need to make a large batch of cookies? The mini pizzelle maker from CucinaPro may be for you. The large baking plates can make four cookies at one time. They are relatively small, measuring only 3.25 inches in diameter. As a result, this make isn’t ideal for cannoli or ice cream cones. However, the unique pattern of the baking plates results in visually appealing pizzelle cookies. Both sides have an intricate pattern. There isn’t a standard grid on one side like most pizzelle makers.
The cooking surface has a smooth non-stick coating. There’s a small power indicator light on the bottom of the machine. The handles are made out of plastic, though there is a steam guard built in to keep your hands protected.
Pros:
- Makes 4 pizzelle cookies at one time
- Cookies are 3.25 inches in diameter
- Non-stick coating
- Steam guard
- Power indicator light
- Unique cookie patterns
Cons:
- May produce uneven pressure
- Creates cookies that are too small for rolling
- Simple locking latch
More Kitchen Equipment Buying Guides
Palmer Pizzelle Maker Classic
This classic pizzelle maker from Palmer has a very traditional look. In fact, one could easily mistake this as a non-electric iron at first glance. The unit is made out of tough cast iron. Not only does it give the outside of the maker an old-world appearance, but it also ensures that your cookies come out even.
The handles are made out of plastic. While the locking mechanism is a bit too simple in design, the weight of the cast iron does a pretty good job at keeping the pressure even across both pizzelle patterns. Overall, this option is very simple to operate. Simple plug it in, let it heat up, and pour in your batter.
Pros:
- Simple operation
- Makes 2 cookies at a time
- Creates cookies with 5-inch diameter
- Made of cast iron
Cons:
- No non-stick coating
- Simple locking latch
Chef’s Choice 835 PizzellePro Express Bake
With a design that’s similar to that of traditional waffle makers, this product is great for beginners. The large round plates have enough room for 3 small pizzelle cookies. The baking plates are covered in a slick non-stick coating and feature built-in overflow channels. They help to redirect excess batter away so that your finishes pizzelle come out looking nice.
The heating controls for the maker can be found on the side. There’s a wheel to help you choose the right temperature setting. An indicator light will let you know when the plates have heating up sufficiently. The outside of the make is made out of stainless steel. Though, plastic is used for the handle and locking mechanism.
Pros:
- Makes 3-inch cookies
- Bakes 3 pizzelle at one time
- Overflow channel
- Indicator lights for power and preheat
- Multiple heat settings
- Non-stick coating
Cons:
- Cookies too small for rolling
- Locking mechanism a bit flimsy
CucinaPro Pizzelle Maker
Another great option from CucinaPro is this electric pizzelle maker. What sets this device apart from others is the pattern on the baking plates. While most bakers have a round design, CucinaPro has opted for a flower shape. The scalloped edges complement the intricate floral design on one side. Overall, the finished pizzelle will measure approximately 5 inches in diameter. The baker allows you to create two at one time.
The baking surface has a non-stick coating. The plates are also considerably thick, which helps to spread heat evenly. The handles are made out of plastic. There’s a simple latching mechanism as well. It consists of a ring that keeps the two handles clasped together.
Pros:
- Non-stick coating on baking plates
- Thick plates for even heat distribution
- Very detailed pizzelle design
- Indicator lights for power
- Makes 5-inch cookies
Cons:
- Single heat setting
- Simple locking mechanism
VillaWare V3600 NS Prego
Like the previous pizzelle maker, this VillaWare product produces beautiful scalloped pizzelle. The pizzelle maker is very easy to operate. Once you plug the device in, it will automatically heat up to a predetermined setting. While it would be nice to have more than one setting, the machine does a great job at creating the perfect pizzelle in only 30 seconds.
A non-stick coating on the baking plates makes it easy to slide finished cookies right off. Each finished pizzelle measures about 5 inches in diameter, which is great for creating small cannoli.
Pros:
- Non-stick coating on baking plates
- Easy to use
- Scalloped waffle pattern
- Indicator lights for power
- Makes 2 cookies at once
- Bakes cookies in only 30 seconds
Cons:
- Flimsly plastic handle
- Simple locking mechanism
Pizzelle Maker Buying Guide
Take one stroll through your local culinary store and you’ll probably find a wide range of purpose-built machines to make all kinds of dishes. While pizzelle makers are considered to be a niche product, there are still plenty of poorly made options out there. If you want to create the best pizzelle possible, you should be looking beyond the price of the device. There are many different considerations to keep in mind.
Construction
If you have ever had to deal with a cheap waffle iron or toaster, you know how frustrating a poorly made kitchen gadget can be. Thin, flimsy plastic should be avoided. Not only does it pose a bit of a safety risk, but it can have an effect on the product’s overall longevity. Durable metal materials, a solid base, and high-quality components are the way to go. This is especially true if you plan on whipping up a batch of pizzelle on a regular basis.
Materials
Typically, pizzelle makers utilize one of three different materials for the baking surface. These include aluminum, cast iron, and stainless steel. They all have their pros and cons. Stainless steel is the most solid of the three materials. It’s resistant to rust and can last for many years. However, aluminum and cast iron are great for cooking because of the way they distribute heat.
Coating
Regardless of the material you choose to go with, it’s a good idea to get something with a non-stick coating. Non-stick pizzelle makers have plates that let the finished waffle cookie slide right off. They also make clean-up a breeze. Without a non-stick coating, you’ll have to spray the baking plates with butter or oil each time you use them.
Cookie Design
The design that’s embossed onto the baking plates of your maker will affect how your finished pizzelle will look. Designs vary from manufacturer to manufacturer. Some provide intricate designs to make traditional pizzelle while others have a standard grid as you would find on a waffle maker. Most pizzelle makers are two-sided with unique designs on both sides.
Size and Thickness
Another thing to consider is size. Italian pizzelle cookies can be as small as three inches or as big as six. If you plan on creating cannoli or ice cream cones, bigger is always best.
Thickness may also affect how the Italian waffle cookies can be used. For example, thinner pizzelle are easier to fold and shape than thicker ones. The thickness of the finished pizzelle is determined by the space between the two baking plates. This can vary between three-eights of an inch up to one-quarter of an inch.
Heat Distribution
To make the perfect pizzelle, the batter needs to be cooked evenly throughout. The last thing you want to be dealing with is a partially cooked cookie. Pizzelle makers have built-in heating elements to ensure that heat is distributed evenly throughout the plates. Stainless steel plates require more heating elements. Cast iron and cast aluminum plates tend to do a better job at heating things evenly.
The way the two sides of the pizzelle maker come together also affects heat distribution. Most products have a locking mechanism. It prevents heat from escaping and ensures that even pressure is being applied across the plates. Before you choose a pizzelle iron, make sure that the locking latch is solid enough to not break after a few uses.
Ease of Use
Last, but not least, go with a pizzelle maker that matches your skill level. If you’re a first-time baker, convenience features can make all the difference. Many products have timers, heat indicators, and multiple heat settings. Some also have heat guards for safety, overflow channels to keep the pattern pristine, and rolling mechanisms to make cones. These features can all make the machine easier to use and provide a versatile cooking experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do you need to grease a pizzelle maker?
This depends entirely on the quality of the baking plates. Some of the best pizzelle makers utilize a non-stick coating. These don’t require any cooking spray or grease whatsoever. However, if the plates do not have this coating, you’ll need to apply a non-stick spray to ensure that the cookies come out clean.
Q: Do pizzelle makers require any special tools?
Some makers come with their own tools to make the process more efficient. However, there is no special tool that you need. A standard spatula, tongs, or fork should do well. With that being said, you may need to use wooden tools on makers with non-stick plates. Using metal tools may scrape the coating off, which could get into the cookie and ruin the baking plates.
Q: What temperature setting should I use?
If you have a pizzelle maker with multiple heat settings, you can choose a setting based on your desired crispness. Higher temperature settings can brown the cookies to a nice crisp while lower settings can make the pizzelle more pliable for rolling. Other factors, such as the consistency of the batter should be taken into account as well. Thicker batters will require more heat and time to cook all the way through.
Q: How long does the preheating process take?
Typically, most pizzelle makers take between 5 and 8 minutes to heat up. However, those with lower heat settings may need as long as 15 minutes. If you’re unsure, you can invest in a device with an indicator light. These lights will turn on once the machine is ready for the batter.
Q: Do pizzelle makers need to be prepared before use?
As with all cooking devices, it’s recommended that you turn the pizzelle maker on and let it go through a heat cycle before use. This will burn off any contaminants. You may notice a small amount of smoke. After that, the maker should be good to go.
If you have a cast iron maker, you can also season the baking plates beforehand. To do this, apply a thin layer of shortening or butter. Turn the maker on and let the grease burn off. This will create a smooth cooking surface. It will prevent rust from forming and decrease the chances of batter from sticking in the crevices.
Q: How do you clean a pizzelle iron?
Makers with non-stick coatings can be cleaned with a soft cloth. Once the machine has cooled down to room temperature, simply wipe the baking plates down with a damp cloth. Follow up with a dry cloth to remove any excess moisture. You can scrape off any caked-on batter with a soft spatula or your fingernail.
Standard cast iron makers require a bit more work. Use a metal brush to remove any dried batter in the crevices of the baking plate. Then, use a dry cloth to get rid of any excess grease. Some products have removable baking plates for easy cleaning. With these makers, you can pop off the plates and hand-wash them with gentle dish soap.