Pizzelles

An Italian tradition that has certainly survived the test of time is Pizzelles.  The thin waffle-like treats are delicate and crispy...the perfect cookie.  My grandmother used to make them all the time.....Cousin Philippe has inherited Nonna's electric pizzelle iron and carries on the family tradition of pizzelles for holidays.  I inherited the old fashioned iron that is used over an open flame..........it is beautiful but I must admit, I have not used it for the purpose it was intended.........electric is much easier. 

I have my own pizzelle iron and make them any time I want.   When we were kids, we used to make all sorts of flavors, but now, strictly the traditional anise flavor.   I made them for my boyfriends mom and she is now addicted.  This is really saying something for a woman who spent her entire life living in Pennsylvania Dutch country in Reading, PA.  She now requests these exotic cookies for her and for her friends........hmmm....maybe I can start a business selling them.....anyone else interested????

6 eggs
3 1/2 cups flour
1 1/2 cup sugar
1 cup margarine or butter
4 teaspoons baking powder
2 tablespoons oil of anise
a handfull of anise seeds...or to taste...

Beat eggs, add sugar gradually.  Add cooled melted margarine and anise oil and seeds.  Add flour and baking powder.  Mix and let sit for a few minutes.
Using an electric pizzelle iron, put a spoonful on each side and hold down for a minute or two until browned.  Cookies will still be soft, they harden immediately once you take them off the iron.