Ferratelle

Ferratelle, also known as pizzelle or cancelle, are traditional sweets from some Italian regions, especially Abruzzo. They are made with a special round and grooved iron, very similar to a waffle maker. Here is the classic recipe:

Ingredients

• 3 eggs
• 150 g of sugar
• 75 g of cooled melted butter
• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract or the grated zest of one lemon
• 250 g of flour
• A pinch of salt
• 1/2 packet of baking powder (8g)

Preparation

1. In a large bowl, beat the eggs with the sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Gently add the cooled melted butter, the chosen flavoring between vanilla extract or lemon zest, and mix well.
3. Combine the sifted flour with the baking powder and the pinch of salt, gradually incorporating it into the liquid mixture until no lumps are formed.
4. Heat the ferratelle iron on the stove or, if electric, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
5. Lightly grease the plates with a bit of butter or oil.
6. Place a spoonful of the batter in the center of the iron and close it, pressing lightly to spread the mixture.
7. Cook until the ferratelle are golden, which usually takes about 1-2 minutes depending on the iron temperature.
8. Remove the ferratella from the iron and let it cool on a sweet wire rack. Ferratelle will harden as they cool.
9. Repeat the operation until you have finished the batter.

Ferratelle can be served plain or dusted with icing sugar. If you wish, they can also be filled with hazelnut cream, jam, or melted chocolate.

Curiosity

Once, ferratelle were prepared during the holidays and on special occasions. Traditional ferratelle irons were often personalized with family crests or with images representing local or religious motifs. Even today, in the areas of origin, it is possible to find artisan irons with unique designs.