From birthdays to holiday festivities or even lazy Sunday afternoons, cookies can truly bring people together. One of the most interesting cookies the culinary world has ever seen is the pizzelle. This is a waffle cookie that has its origins in Italy’s Abruzzo region. Most Italians prefer making their pizzelle using a traditional pizzelle iron. The rest of the world would rather use a more modern gadget. For them, only the best pizzelle makers will suffice to make this amazing type of cookie.
The pizzelle makers of today may have more advanced features than the traditional pizzelle iron. However, they still adhere to the very same principles of making excellent and delicious Italian cookies to die for. So join us in this article as we review 9 of the best pizzelle makers on the market. We will also help you determine the best possible waffle cookie-making device you can ever buy.
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I. Our Top 5 Picks for Pizzelle Makers
| Products & Features | Image & Price |
|---|---|
1. CucinaPro Non-stick Electric Pizzelle Maker |  |
2. Cuisinart WM-PZ2 Pizelle Express |  |
3. Chef’sChoice 834 Nonstick Pizzelle Maker |  |
4. Cuisinart WM-PZ10 Pizzelle Press |  |
5. Palmer Pizzelle Maker Classic |  |
6. Nordic Ware Norwegian Krumkake Cast Iron |  |
| 7. Palmer 1000T Electric Pizzelle Iron Nonstick |  |
| 8. Home-App Palmer Pizzelle Maker Made in USA |  |
| 9. VillaWare V3600-NS Prego Nonstick Pizzelle Baker |  |
II. What to Look for When Buying a Pizzelle Maker
Modern pizzelle makers offer a hassle-free way of making fascinating Italian waffle cookies to delight the family. Good quality pizzelle makers always have a set of attributes that any potential buyer must look for. Here are the more important ones.
Material
Most pizzelle makers are made of stainless steel. However, some are made of cast iron and aluminum. Cast iron gadgets are super tough and very heavy. If you prefer something lightweight, then pick an aluminum device. Stainless steel offers an excellent combination of strength, durability, and lightweight characteristics that modern chefs love.
Locking Mechanism
Making pizzelle is all about securing the dough between the plates. The traditional method calls for the manual locking of the two iron plates with the handles. However, modern machines should have a spill-proof design that also better retains heat in between the plates. In addition, no heat should be able to escape from the inside of the shells.
Heat Distribution
No one would like to eat a cookie that has a nice golden color on one side and an ugly, dark, burnt color on the other. No one would also like a cookie that has uneven coloration. You can prevent this by choosing a device that allows for even heat distribution. The better control you have about the device’s temperature, the better the pizzelle will turn out.
Size and Number of Pizzelles
Pizzelle makers come in different sizes. Some machines can produce 3-inch diameter cookies. Some produce 6-inch diameter treats. Small pizzelles are perfect as gift items, finger foods during parties, and as children’s treats. Larger cookies can be turned into cannoli, ice cream cones, and waffle bowls.
You will also have to look at the number of cookies that the device can cook simultaneously. For example, some products can cook two cookies, while others can only cook one pizzella. So if you are going to use the appliance to serve cookies to guests, you might want to use a gadget that can cook at least 3 pizzelles simultaneously.
Controls
Automatic pizzelle makers already come with temperature controls to make pizzelle-making a breeze. The ideal machine should have indicator lights that tell home cooks if their device is already powered on, is currently baking, or is already done cooking the pizzelles.
Nonstick Coating
There are numerous advantages to using a cooking appliance with a nonstick coating. The first is that it is a lot easier to cook and can be healthier, too. There is no need to add the oil onto the cooking surface to prevent the batter from sticking. This also makes it easy to clean. One issue with nonstick-coated pizzelle makers is that they require more cautious handling to retain the nonstick coating.
Overflow Channels
It would be nice if the pizzelle maker had overflow channels. This will help minimize cleanups after cooking. In addition, the excess batter will flow through these channels and minimize the mess on your countertop.
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III. Top 9 Best Pizzelle Makers
1. CucinaPro Non-stick Electric Pizzelle Maker
One of the best pizzelle makers on the market is the Pizzelle Maker from CucinaPro. This is a device that is more than capable of making cookies 5-inch diameter cookies for two simultaneously. The nonstick cooking surface of the CucinaPro allows for effortless cooking and cleaning. CucinaPro designed its pizzelle maker to have an aluminum housing and solid stainless-steel cooking plates. The plates feature wonderful patterns that can make for interesting Italian cookies.
While the CucinaPro makes amazing pizzelles, you must time cooking. This appliance does not have temperature controls that you can use to fine-tune the doneness of your cookies.
Nevertheless, the CucinaPro remains an excellent choice for people who want a reliable and affordable pizzelle-making device.
Pros
- It makes two 5-inch pizzelles at once
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Ensures even heat distribution
- Can make fragile crispy waffle cookies
- Good value
Cons
- No temperature controls
2. Cuisinart WM-PZ2 Pizelle Express
The Cuisinart WM-PZ2 Pizelle Express is a great device for making fantastic Italian waffle cookies. At its core are 5 different heat level settings that allow you to have full control over the level of browning of your cookies. And since the small kitchen appliance already has a nonstick cooking surface, cleaning it will never be a problem.
Our only gripe about this product is that Cuisinart forgot to include a finished light indicator. As a result, you will have to check your cookie from time to time to make sure that it gets cooked the way you want it.
Still, the Cuisinart WM-PZ2 Pizelle Express is one of the best. It is durable and can provide you with amazing cookies every time for many years to come.
Pros
- Very compact design
- Reliable nonstick cooking surface
- It comes with 5 browning settings
- Easy to set up, operate, and store
- Easy to maintain and clean
Cons
- No finished light indicator
3. Chef’sChoice 834 Nonstick Pizzelle Maker
Making pizzelles is easier with the Chef’s Choice 834 PizzellePro Toscano. This device can make two crispy pizzelles at a time. The best part is that you get to enjoy your cookies in 30 seconds. Very few machines can beat the speed of the Toscano. It is a breeze to maintain and stores very easily, too. You will never have issues with the batter spilling from the sides because of its secure lid.
The PizzellePro could have been the best pizzelle-making contraption on the market if not for its inability to make thick pizzelles. This machine is not for you if you prefer thick pizzelles.
The PizzellePro Toscano deserves a slot in this list of the best devices for making pizzelles. It is affordable and makes cookies in a jiffy.
Pros
- Cooks pizzelles very fast
- Ensures uniform heat distribution
- Secure locking mechanism
- Easy to maintain
- Easy to store
Cons
- Not great for making thick pizzelles
4. Cuisinart WM-PZ10 Pizzelle Press
Like most people who prefer smaller-sized pizzelles, the WM-PZ10 Pizzelle Press is for you. Cuisinart designed the WM-PZ10 to make 4-inch cookies without ever guessing whether the machine is ready to accept the batter or not. Instead, there is an indicator light to tell you that your cookie is ready for your enjoyment. You also get to control the level of brownness of your cookies so that they will come out perfect every time.
The only thing we wished Cuisinart did with the Pizelle Press is to improve on the durability of its construction. We found complaints about the gadget breaking down after only several months of use.
Regardless, the Cuisinart WM-PZ-10 Pizzelle Press can still be a great buy, especially among budget-conscious homeowners. The gadget makes great pizzelles without making its maintenance a burdensome chore.
Pros
- It makes 2 pizzelles at a time
- Uniform heat distribution
- Good-quality locking mechanism
- Excellent temperature controls
- It comes with extra accessories
Cons
- Issues with durability
5. Palmer Pizzelle Maker Classic
There are still some of us who prefer to make pizzelles the traditional way. This is where the Palmer Pizzelle Maker Classic can be an excellent tool. Finally, you get a device that is as tough as the classic pizzelle irons that native Italians use. The only difference is that the Classic is an electronic device that requires 800 watts to cook your pizzelles to perfection.
While the Palmer Classic is electronic, it does not have cooking indicators. There are no temperature controls, either. Instead, it uses electricity to heat its cooking surface. As a result, you will have to be especially adept at making pizzelles to use the Classic.
Expert pizzelle makers will have no issues using the Palmer Classic. It is built to withstand abuse for many decades, providing everyone with crispy pizzelles every time.
Pros
- Cooks thin and super crispy pizzelles
- Guarantees even heat distribution
- Very secure locks
- Very durable construction
- Classic look
Cons
- No cooking light indicators
6. Nordic Ware Norwegian Krumkake Cast Iron
The Krumkake is Norway’s answer to the Italian pizzelle. And what better way to make this type of cookie than with the Norwegian Krumkake Iron from Nordic Ware? This contraption is the closest thing you can get to an authentic, traditional Scandinavian cooking tool. It has an exciting design that speaks of the myths of old Norway. Made of cast aluminum, the Krumkake Iron is as tough as cast iron without the heft. The design also ensures better heat distribution in making the perfect krumkake or pizzelle.
Keep in mind that the Norwegian Krumkake Iron is as rustic as it gets. There are no advanced technologies to help you. You must be a master in making pizzelles before you can use this contraption.
The Nordic Ware Norwegian Krumkake Iron is a tough and elegant tool for making delightful pizzelles or krumkakes.
Pros
- Warp-resistant design
- Very durable construction
- Ensures uniform heat distribution
- Lightweight
- Artistic Scandinavian imprint
Cons
- Not for ordinary people
7. Palmer 1000T Electric Pizzelle Iron Nonstick
Palmer makes very durable and reliable pizzelle makers. One of its bestsellers is the 1000T Electric Pizzelle Iron with a durable nonstick coating. The handle is long and comes with slots for effortless hanging. The cooking surface is easy enough to clean if you add cooking spray. One thing we like about the Palmer 1000T is its even heat distribution. It also cooks thin pizzelles a lot faster than other devices on the market.
While the cooking surface has a nonstick coating, we did find the application of a cooking spray a must. This is because the cookie batter still tends to stick to the cooking surface.
The Palmer 1000T is far from perfect. However, its durable construction and even cooking make it a wonderful contraption to have in the kitchen.
Pros
- Cooks thin pizzelles fast
- Distributes heat in an even manner
- Durable construction
- Easy to clean
- Long and safe handle
Cons
- Not ‘nonstick’ surface
8. Home-App Palmer Pizzelle Maker Made in the USA
People who love making their own ice cream cones will love the Palmer Pizzelle Maker. This device has a straightforward design. However, it makes up for its lack of innovative features by ensuring you get a perfect pair of pizzelles every time. Palmer is also kind enough to include a cone roller with the package. This helps in the making of amazing ice cream cones out of the 5-inch diameter cookies.
Given its manual design, do not expect this pizzelle maker to have temperature controls and cooking indicator lights. You will have to check your cookies now and then if you want the perfect treats to serve.
Regardless, the Palmer Pizzelle Maker is still an awesome choice for people who want amazing thin cookies to transform into cones.
Pros
- Makes 2 perfect pizzelles
- Heavy-duty aluminum construction
- Lightweight design
- Secure locking mechanism
- Perfect for making cones
Cons
- No light indicators and temperature controls
9. VillaWare V3600-NS Prego Nonstick Pizzelle Baker
V3600-NS Prego is one of the most expensive pizzelle bakers on the market, and for a good reason. This gadget can make thin and crispy Italian cookies in less than 30 seconds. Its nonstick surface also features a more advanced and safer material, the Xylan. In addition, there is a steam guard element that also makes cooking pizzelles safer. You will also feel safe that the Prego conforms to the electrical standards of North America.
Our only lament about the Prego is the absence of a finished light indicator. However, it does have a ready light indicator that will tell you if the device is ready to accept your batter.
Despite this, we still believe that the VillaWare V3600-NS Prego is a good pizzelle maker if you have the money for it.
Pros
- Cooks pizzelles very fast
- It comes with a ready light indicator
- Ample steam protection for the hands
- Durable nonstick coating
- Sturdy and reliable construction
Cons
- No finished light indicator
IV. FAQs
What is a pizzelle maker, and how does it work?
This small kitchen appliance makes Italian waffle cookies known as ‘pizzelle.’ They look like waffle makers that consist of two halves. A heating element increases the temperature of both cooking surfaces. When it is hot enough, the batter between these cooking surfaces gets cooked into a cookie-like consistency and texture.
What are the different types of pizzelle makers?
Most people will group pizzelle makers into either manual or electric. Manual or handheld devices need a stove burner to make pizzelles. They often do not have advanced features that tell you about the temperature of the cooking surface or if the cookie is already done. Electric devices have a built-in heating element and can feature multiple sensors for making pizzelles a lot easier. Handheld pizzelle makers are more durable than electric variants. Unfortunately, this type requires the skill of an experienced pizzelle baker.
How to use a pizzelle maker?
Using a pizzelle maker is like using a waffle maker or even a sandwich maker. First, prepare the ingredients for the Italian waffle cookie. This comes in the form of a batter. Next, get your device heated to the ideal temperature. This depends on the type of pizzelle maker that you have. Manual devices will require preheating the device over the stove. Electric devices require the plugging of the unit into an outlet and turn it on. Depending on the type of pizzelle maker you will use, preheating can take anywhere from several seconds to a few minutes.
Once the device is hot enough, pour the batter into one of the cooking surfaces. Next, press the other cooking surface onto the bottom ‘plate’ to form a seal. This seal traps heat inside the pizzelle maker and cooks the batter. Electric gadgets often have light indicators to tell you that the cookie is already done.
How to care for and clean?
Modern pizzelle makers are easy to clean, especially those with nonstick coating. All they need is a simple wipe using a piece of a clean, soft cloth. Stovetop pizzelle irons are a lot trickier to clean. The current recommendation is to observe periodic seasoning to give the pizzelle maker a slick, nonstick cooking surface. Cleaning the device after use is ideal. It is also best to clean the device while it is still warm. This makes the removal of any stuck-on food a lot easier.
Bare-metal pizzelle makers should be cleaned while the appliance is still warm. Use a brush with stiff bristles to remove debris and other materials from the crevices of the unit’s patterns. It would also help to season the cooking surface to do cooking and cleaning a breeze. Re-seasoning the cooking surface is crucial to keeping it in good condition.
How do you keep Pizelles crisp?
There are many ways you can keep your pizzelles crisp as you store them in your cabinet. First, you must make sure that your pizzelles have completely cooled down before you store them. It is also best to store your Italian waffle cookies in glass containers instead of plastic jars. On that note, we also recommend using covered containers.
We recommend leveraging the hygroscopic properties of baking soda to keep your pizzelles crisp. Fill a coffee filter with about a third of a cup of baking soda. Form a basket with the coffee filter and secure the opening of the coffee filter basket with staple wires. Make sure there is an ample opening in the coffee filter to help draw moisture from the jar and the cookies. Now, place this improvised hygroscopic contraption in the glass jar together with your pizzelles.
You can also re-crisp your pizzelles by heating them in a 350-degree preheated oven for 1-2 minutes. This will keep your pizzelles scrumptiously crispy.
Where to buy a pizzelle maker?
Pizzelle makers are available from your local kitchen appliance store. The main advantage of buying from a physical store is choosing from different brands and models. In addition, you get to check each one for its strengths and weaknesses. This helps you pick the best possible pizzelle maker to bring home.
Unfortunately, not all appliance stores will have this kind of kitchen gadget. Your best recourse will be to source one from online commerce platforms. Amazon has an extensive list of sellers of these small kitchen appliances. Other noteworthy platforms include eBay and Home Depot. One advantage of using Home Depot’s services is that the brand also happens to have physical stores.
V. Conclusion
Picking the right kitchen gadget to make awesome thin Italian waffle cookies requires understanding how the cookie is made. You can pick a manual or an electronic device to help you make pizzelles. You can also choose between a simple electric pizzelle maker and one with advanced technologies to make the cookie-making process a lot easier. Whatever product you are going to buy should give you the confidence to make amazing waffle cookies right from the comfort of your home. Our buying guide and our list of the best pizzelle makers should already give you the confidence to make the right decision.
