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When I first heard the word “Pizzelle”, the first thing that came out of my mind were cute little pizza babies. Well, it wasn’t even close. A pizzelle is a dessert of Italian origin that is somehow close to our waffles. It is a cookie created through a mixture of flour, eggs, butter, vanilla, and flavorings. The perfect taste of this delicate treat is not just through the use of the finest ingredients, but also by using the best pizzelle maker.
If you have tasted one, whether, through an Italian bakery of through a friend that loves baking, you can agree that this is something that you can make at home. Just like how making perfect Bundt cakes or lasagna require a special bundt pan or lasagna pan to achieve, you need the help of a pizzelle maker to make the perfect batch.
The challenge now is to get the perfect tool to help you do the job. I am here to make sure that you wouldn’t make mistake and waste money on something that is useless. To start off, I am giving you some pointers.
Things to consider in choosing a pizzelle maker
A Pizzelle Maker and pizzelles on the tray
Before checking out prices and specs of pizzelle makers, you first have to consider the following factors.
1
Frequency of Baking
If you find yourself getting hooked up with this Italian treat and needs to make a batch or two regularly, choose a durable pizzelle maker which is usually the cast iron type. It wouldn’t mind being used all the time and will be with you for a long time.
For occasional cravings and just to have one when you need to, an electric pizzelle maker will do. Although built to last as well, they wouldn’t be able to hold up on frequent usage as much as their cast iron counterparts do.
2
Your experience level
If it will be your first time to make pizzelle cookies, you need to have a user-friendly pizzelle maker that has features to help you make the perfect batch all the time. There are machines that have lights and other notification that will inform you that your cookies are done.
If you are familiar with the recipes or is an expert in making these cookies, you can resort to using the traditional pizzelle maker to help. It doesn’t hurt though to use the simplified version of the machine.
3
Overflow allowance
If you can’t seem to avoid overflow due to the texture of your batter, then choose the pizzelle maker that has higher hedges or a bigger space for potential overflow.
4
Even heat distribution
You would like to have a cookie that is firm on the middle and not burnt on the sides. This would only be possible with a pizzelle maker that has even heat distribution. Typically, a modern pizzelle maker has a latch that is connected from top to bottom to ensure even heat distribution. The traditional ones don’t need to since the materials such as cast iron and aluminum, are good at distributing heat evenly.
5
Ease of Cleaning
Newer versions of the pizzelle maker have nonstick coatings that eliminate the residues that are very hard to clean. Cleaning becomes simpler as the machine can be cleaning with soap and water or having detachable parts that are dishwasher safe.
6
Versatility
While you’re at it, choose a pizzelle maker that can be used as a waffle maker as well. You can actually make cookie shaped waffles as is, but there are some units that have a “roll” feature that allows you to make waffles and even waffle cones for a nice scoop of ice cream. Have a pizzelle maker that can make objects of your imagination a reality.
The best pizzelle maker available today
To make it easier for you to decide, I came up with a list of my top pizzelle maker for you to choose from.
- #1. Cuisinart WM-PZ2 Pizzelle Press
- #2. CucinaPro Non-Stick Pizzelle Maker 220-05NS – Makes Two 5″ Cookies at Once
- #3. Chef’s Choice 834 Pizzelle Pro Express Bake
- #4. Chef’s Choice 835 Pizzelle Pro Express Bake
- #5. Palmer Pizzelle Maker Classic
#1. Cuisinart WM-PZ2 Pizzelle Press
https://www.amazon.com/Cuisinart-WM-PZ2-Pizzelle-Press/dp/B00006F2ME/
It is no wonder why Cuisinart always makes my top 5 list. The quality of their appliances is as if they have the customer in mind when they are designing it. This pizzelle press is no exception.
Whether you are a beginner or an experienced baker, this will make your cooking easier. All you have to do is put the batter in the two, 4-inch nonstick plates, select your preference of browning with its 5 levels, and wait for the light indicator to know when it is done. No more guessing.
Cuisinart WM-PZ2 Pizzelle Press
Cleaning is easy. Just wipe with a damp cloth and everything will come off easily. No need to scratch the surface. Even storage is easy. Just fold it and put it in. It eats up very little space and is perfectly portable.
PROS
- It has two nonstick plates with decorative patterns that can make two 4-inch cookies in one batch.
- Select your preference with the 5 browning level options.
- The indicator light tells you if the cookies are done. There is no need to guess.
- The plates are easy to clean. Just wipe with a damp cloth and you are good to go.
- A locking lid ensures even heat distribution and even browning.
- The set includes a measuring spoon and a rolling dowel for cannoli.
CONS
- The latch is made of plastic. Use it with care to avoid breakage and malfunction.
#2. CucinaPro Non-Stick Pizzelle Maker 220-05NS – Makes Two 5″ Cookies at Once
https://www.amazon.com/CucinaPro-Non-Stick-Pizzelle-Maker-220-05NS/dp/B000I1QJ06/