These Crisp Italian Waffle Cookies with a Twist are a fresh take on the traditional pizzelle—thin, crispy, and subtly sweet cookies typically flavored with anise or vanilla. What makes this version stand out is the addition of unexpected flavors or mix-ins that give these cookies a unique personality. I love making them when I want something nostalgic but with a modern spin that surprises anyone who takes a bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it brings together old-world charm and new flavor profiles in the most delicious way. The cookies are ultra-thin and crisp, just like classic pizzelle, but the “twist” could be anything from citrus zest to cocoa, espresso powder, or even a touch of spice. They’re perfect for pairing with coffee, packing into holiday gift boxes, or just enjoying as a light dessert. Plus, they come together quickly using a pizzelle or waffle iron.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Eggs

• Granulated sugar

• Unsalted butter, melted

• All-purpose flour

• Baking powder

• Salt

• Traditional flavoring (anise extract, vanilla, or almond extract)

• Optional twist: lemon or orange zest, cocoa powder, cinnamon, espresso powder, or mini chocolate chips

Directions

1. I start by whisking the eggs and sugar together until light and frothy.

2. Then I stir in the melted butter and chosen extract or flavoring.

3. In another bowl, I whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and any dry “twist” ingredients like cocoa or spices.

4. I gradually combine the wet and dry ingredients until I have a smooth, thick batter.

5. Using a preheated pizzelle or waffle iron, I drop small spoonfuls of the batter into the center, close the lid, and cook each cookie until golden and crisp—usually about 30 to 60 seconds depending on the iron.

6. I carefully remove them and lay them flat to cool (or shape them around a cone while warm if I want a fun presentation).

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 30–36 cookies, depending on size.

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

One of the reasons I keep coming back to this recipe is the endless ways I can play with it. Sometimes I add orange zest and a sprinkle of dark chocolate chips for a citrusy-chocolate version. Other times I mix in cinnamon and espresso powder for a cozy, coffeehouse feel. I’ve even made savory twists with herbs and cheese for a unique appetizer option. The base is super flexible—whatever I’m in the mood for, it works.

storage/reheating

I store the cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If they lose their crispness, I pop them in a low oven (about 250°F) for a few minutes to refresh them. They also freeze well—I just layer them between sheets of wax paper and store in a zip-top bag for up to a month.

FAQs

Can I make these without a pizzelle or waffle iron?

While a pizzelle iron gives the most authentic results, I’ve used a regular waffle iron with shallow plates for a similar effect. The shape might vary, but the flavor and crispness still shine through.

What’s the best way to keep the cookies crisp?

I make sure the cookies cool completely on a wire rack before storing them. Any trapped steam can soften them, so I keep them in a dry, sealed container.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes, I’ve had success using a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. The texture is slightly different but still crisp and tasty.

What flavor combinations work best for the “twist”?

I love pairing orange zest with chocolate chips, lemon zest with poppy seeds, or espresso powder with a pinch of cinnamon. Even chopped nuts or flavored extracts (like hazelnut or coconut) work beautifully.

Can I shape these cookies while warm?

Absolutely. I sometimes wrap the warm cookies around a wooden spoon handle to create tubes or mold them over a small bowl to make edible dessert cups. Just work quickly—they set fast.

Conclusion

These Crisp Italian Waffle Cookies with a Twist are my way of honoring tradition while having a little fun with flavor. They’re delicate, buttery, and endlessly customizable—whether I’m sticking with a classic anise version or experimenting with new tastes. They bring a special touch to any table and always disappear fast, which is the best compliment I can ask for.