Brian's Pizzelles

My mom's side of the family is Italian.  I grew up with these highly addicting cookies.  They are arguably the first form of cookie ever made in the world.  Wealthy citizens would make these in presses in a fire with their family crests for the designs.  Nowadays you can order an electric press for $40 and it simplifies the process immensely.  When I first introduced Staci to these cookies she was hooked from the beginning.  We actually make these by the hundreds every Christmas and give them out as gifts.  Neighbors have been known to horde these from their kids and even spouses.  I usually try not to post recipes that you need such a specialized instrument to cook, but if you want to really make a good treat invest in a pizzelle maker.  I recommend the one made by Presto.  The Cuisinart version is a little smaller and thicker and just don't seem to be as good of a texture.  Another plus to this recipe is that they store for ages.  I remember my aunt always having these stored in an old coffee thin with the lid on.  This is my personal recipe that has taken a few years to perfect.  It yields 120+ cookies.

Ingredients:
12 eggs
4 cups sugar
1 lb butter, melted
8 tsp baking powder
2 Tbl vanilla
9 1/2 cups flour

Directions:
1. Blend eggs and sugar.  Add melted butter, baking powder and vanilla.  Slowing add flour and mix thoroughly.

2. Place a tsp of batter on pizzelle maker, close lid and cook until desired color (15-20 seconds)

Notes:
It is fun to experiment with different flavor by mixing up the vanilla with other flavors like, lemon, orange, anise, etc.  More creative ideas are that they can be shaped if done right off the press.  Lay over a small bowl and make small dishes,  We have laid them over a can and used them to make ice cream tacos.