Pizzelle vs Stroopwafel: 10 Differences You Need to Know

When it comes to deliciousness, few things can rival a freshly-made cookie.

What if we narrow it down even more?

This blog post will compare two of the world’s most beloved cookies: pizzelle and stroopwafels.

Pizzelle and stroopwafels are two popular types of cookies from different parts of the world.

Pizzelle are Italian, thin, crispy waffle cookies that are made using a special pizzelle iron. 

On the other hand, Stroopwafels are Dutch caramel-filled waffle cookies made using two thin layers of dough with a sticky filling in the middle.

Both cookies are delicious in their own right, but there are some key differences between them.

Let’s look at pizzelle vs. stroopwafel to see what sets these two cookies apart.

What is Pizzelle?

Pizzelle are traditional Italian waffles that date back centuries. 

They are made with a simple batter of eggs, sugar, butter, and flour, and they are cooked in a special iron that imprints a beautiful snowflake design onto each waffle.

Pizzelle are usually flavored with vanilla or anise and often enjoyed with a cup of coffee or espresso.

Pizzelles are relatively thin and crispy, with a delicate flavor that melts in your mouth.

They can be enjoyed plain or with various toppings, such as chocolate or fruit.

What is Stroopwafel?

On the other hand, Stroopwafels are Dutch in origin and date back to the 18th century.

Stroopwafel batter is similar to that of a pancake, and it is cooked in a special waffle iron with two hinged plates.

They are made from two thin layers of cookie dough that sandwich a sticky filling of syrup and spices.

The most popular stroopwafel flavors include caramel, cinnamon, and chocolate.

Stroopwafels are thick and soft and best enjoyed with a cup of coffee or tea (the steam from the hot beverage helps soften the caramel filling). 

What are the differences between Pizzelle and Stroopwafel

In the world of waffle irons, there are two clear contenders for the title “best”: pizzelle and stroopwafel.

Both types of cookies are delicious, but which one is better?

Let’s take a closer look at pizzelle vs. stroopwafel to find out.

1. The History

Pizzelles have been around for centuries—their first recorded mention dates back to the 8th century.

They were made in iron molds over an open flame, giving them their distinctive shape and design.

They are still made in iron molds but baked in an electric pizzelle maker. 

Stroopwafels also have a long history—they were first made in the 18th century by a baker in Gouda, Holland.

The stroopwafel quickly became a popular treat; today, they are sold worldwide.

One thing that makes stroopwafels so unique is that they are still made using the same traditional recipe that was used 200 years ago. 

2. Origins

Pizzelle originated in Italy, while stroopwafels originated in the Netherlands.

Pizzelle were traditionally made during special occasions like weddings and holidays.

On the other hand, Stroopwafels were initially sold by street vendors in Dutch cities.

3. Ingredients

The main difference between pizzelle and stroopwafels lies in their ingredients.

Pizzelle are made with flour, eggs, sugar, butter, anise extract, and baking powder. 

On the other hand, Stroopwafels are made with flour, brown sugar, butter, yeast, milk, cinnamon, and clove.

As you can see, stroopwafels contain several ingredients not found in pizzelle.

4. Texture

Pizzelle has a light, thin, and crispy texture, while stroopwafels have a soft and chewy texture.

Some people prefer the lighter texture of pizzelle, while others find it too dry.

The chewiness of stroopwafels is a plus for some, but others find it too dense.

Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference.

5. Taste

Regarding taste, pizzelle and stroopwafels are delicious but have very different flavors.

Pizzelle has a light, delicate flavor often enhanced with vanilla or lemon extract, with a hint of sweetness thanks to adding sugar to the dough. 

They also have a slight anise flavor due to adding anise extract.

Stroopwafels, on the other hand, have a rich caramel flavor thanks to the addition of brown sugar and cinnamon in the dough.

The syrup filling between the two layers of cookie batter also contributes to the sweetness of stroopwafels, which adds an extra layer of richness.

Again, it’s a personal preference regarding which cookie tastes better.

6. Shape

Pizzelle are made in special pizzelle irons with a design imprinted on them, giving them their characteristic shape. 

The most common pizzelle designs are flowers, snowflakes, or waffle cones.

Stroopwafels are also made in special irons, but the iron plates are hinged so that the stroopwafel batter can be cooked evenly on both sides. 

This results in stroopwafels having a round shape with two flat sides.

7. Size

Pizzelle and stroopwafels also differ in size. 

Pizzelle are typically about 4 inches in diameter, while stroopwafels are about 2 inches in diameter.

8. Versatility 

Pizzelle and stroopwafels can be enjoyed independently, but they are versatile enough to be used in various recipes.

Pizzelle can be rolled into cones and filled with ice cream or sandwiched with chocolate or fruit spread to create a delicious dessert.

They can also be crumbled and used as a topping for pies or cakes.

On the other hand, Stroopwafels are often used as an ingredient in other desserts.

They can be crumbled and sprinkled over ice cream or baked into cookies or cakes.

They can also be melted and used as a dipping sauce for fruits or marshmallows. 

9. Toppings

Pizzelle and stroopwafels can be enjoyed plain, or they can be topped with a variety of different things.

Pizzelle are often dusted with powdered sugar, while stroopwafels are typically enjoyed with a cup of coffee or tea.

Stroopwafels can also be dipped in chocolate, which pizzelle cannot do because they would fall apart.

10. Price

Pizzelle and stroopwafels are both affordable cookies and reasonably priced, with pizzelle generally being slightly cheaper than stroopwafels.

Pizzelle can be found for around $10-15 per dozen, while stroopwafels usually cost around $12-18 per dozen.

Of course, the price will vary depending on where you purchase them.

Pizzelle vs Stroopwafel: Are they the same?

Pizzelle and stroopwafels are two popular types of cookies with distinct origins and flavor profiles.

• Pizzelle are Italian waffle cookies with a light and crispy texture with a hint of sweetness.

• Stroopwafels are Dutch caramel-filled waffle cookies with a soft, chewy texture and rich caramel flavor.

• Pizzelle and stroopwafels can be enjoyed on their own or used in various recipes.

• Pizzelle are a waffle filled with ice cream or chocolate, while stroopwafels are often used as an ingredient in other desserts.

• They are also priced similarly, with pizzelle generally slightly cheaper than stroopwafels.

Ultimately, it’s hard to choose a winner in the battle of pizzelle vs. stroopwafels.

Both cookies have a lot going for them and are equally delicious.

Pizzelle is probably your best bet if you like light, crispy cookies with a delicate flavor.

But if you’re looking for something richer and more decadent, go for a stroopwafel—you won’t be disappointed!