There are multiple pizzelle makers in the market, with some having two molds while others have only one mold. Apart from this, the products also differ in terms of other features that make the decision more difficult and challenging. So, to help you out, we have crafted a complete buying guide for pizzelle makers. With this, you can choose the best product that will be worthy of your investment and can meet all your requirements.
Pizzelle Maker vs Waffle Maker
A pizzelle maker is not the same as a waffle maker. These appliances can be used to make waffles, but they have considerable differences. Below, we have pointed out some of the main differences.
- A pizzelle maker has thicker baking plates, but the waffle makers can have thin or thick plates.
- The baking plates have snowflake, floral, and other mold designs in a pizzelle maker, but the waffle makers have the same square mold structure.
- Using the pizzelle maker, you can make pizzelle, cannoli, and other such items. On the contrary, a waffle maker can make only waffles.
Important Features to Keep In Mind While Shopping For Pizzelle Makers
Number of pizzelle molds
The number of pizzelle molds differs from one product to the other. If you want to have this appliance only for yourself, you can choose a product with one or two molds. But when you have to prepare the pizzelle for multiple people, always go for a product having two or more molds. This will help you cook more in a single batch.
Pizzelle size
Most pizzelle makers have circular molds but with different diameters. For example, some products can make 4-inch pizzelle while others have 5-inch molds. If you want to make waffles or cannolis from pizzelle, go for a product having larger mold sizes. These pizzelle are large enough to help you roll them in any shape without forming cracks in between. But if you simply want to eat the food item with cream, toppings, or syrups, you can buy any type of pizzelle maker.
Mold designs
Most pizzelle makers have baking molds with different designs so that you can have a beautiful-looking pizzella. However, the designs can differ from one product to another. For example, there are pizzelle makers with two molds having the same floral design or one floral and one snowflake design. If your chosen product has only one mold, both the lids will have the same or different designs.
Material
When you are buying a new kitchen appliance, it is crucial to check what material it is manufactured with. This same rule is applicable to pizzelle makers too. Most products have a stainless steel body and baking plates because this material is strong, highly durable, and helps in faster heat conduction and distribution. On the contrary, you can find a few products where the external body is made from iron, and the baking plates are constructed with stainless steel. Iron is also quite strong, but it can form rust over time.
Performance
A pizzelle maker's performance depends on the cooking time and heat distribution. If you want to make the pizzelle quickly without wasting much time, go for a product that has a high-power heating element. It will rapidly increase the baking plates' temperature and complete the cooking within minutes. However, make sure that the baking plates can distribute heat evenly so it eliminates the chances of having overcooked or undercooked pizzelle.
Non-stick coating
Most pizzelle makers have baking plates coated with a non-stick material. This will prevent the batter from sticking to the surface and allow you to easily take the cooked pizzelle out. You don't have to scratch the bottom to release the food. Besides, it is very easy to clean the non-stick baking plates because there won't be any grease or remnants of the cooked food. While choosing such an appliance, make sure that the non-stick coating is made from BPA-free or PFOA-free material. This will ensure that your food is non-toxic and completely safe for consumption.
Indicator lights
You cannot open the lids of a pizzelle maker to check whether the batter is cooked completely as it will reduce the temperature of the baking plates. That's why it would be best to choose a product with indicator lights. Once the cooking is completed, the indicator will alert you, and you can take out the cooked food before it burns. Also, a few products have an additional indicator that will signify when the pizzelle maker is ready to bake.
Browning levels
If you like pizzelle with light browning while your kids or any family member love to eat crispy, dark brown pizzelle, go for a product that comes with a browning regulator. This will help you alter the level of crispiness.
Average Cost of a Pizzelle Maker
The pizzelle makers are available in multiple forms with various features. This is why their prices can vary from $30 to $65. If you want a product with a single mold, its price will be lower than the pizzelle makers with multiple molds. Similarly, if your chosen product has indicator lights, it will be expensive.
How to Make Pizzelles With a Pizzelle Maker
For making pizzelle in the pizzelle makers, you can follow the following steps discussed below.
- Prepare the batter for your pizzelle. You can add different types of flavors as per your choice.
- Preheat the pizzelle maker for about 3 to 5 minutes.
- Once done, open the top lid and pour your battle at the center of the molds.
- Close the lid and switch on the pizzelle maker.
- You need to wait for a couple of minutes till the indicator starts blinking.
- Open the lid and carefully take out the cooked pizzelle without touching the baking plates.
