The Story of the Reko Pizzelle Cookie - Reko (2024)

A Crispy History

Pizzelles, the oldest known waffle cookies, originated in Italy. The name pizzelle is based on the Italian word ‘pizze’ meaning round and flat, with the ending ‘elle’ referring to its small size. Often featured during celebrations, and hung as edible decorations, the pizzelle has been woven into countless meaningful moments throughout history. It’s not just a cookie, but an artifact of true Italian craftmanship and celebration.

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When you reach for a pizzelle you’re reaching towards a thousand years of tradition, celebrations, and delicious moments. In 8th century Abruzzo, Italy, the pizzelle was created and heralded for its subtle sweetness and satisfying crispy texture. These golden waffle cookies are so important to the people of south-central Abruzzo that two neighboring towns still argue about which town originated the pizzelle.

Our founder, Ces Nucci was inspired by the irresistible aroma of fresh sweet pizzelles griddling in the kitchen of his childhood home. In 1985, he set out to bring this delicious tradition to the rest of the world. Custom ovens and baking equipment were sourced to preserve the classic flavor and light crispy texture, and make it broadly available to more households. Pizzelle irons were commonly fashioned in the pattern of a family’s crest, so our classic Reko “snowflake” pattern is unique to us!

Today, we still proudly make our Addictively Delicious!™ Pizzelles the same way, baked fresh in Canada, in a peanut-free facility, in small batches, and hand packed. Best of all, Reko Pizzelles do not require a special occasion – it’s about celebrating every moment, and enjoying simple indulgences, each and every day.

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Our sister brand, kii Naturals™brand brings flavor into the snacking spotlight with hand-crafted artisan snack crisps. Double-baked for a delicious satisfying crunch, each artisan crisp holds a delightful burst of flavorful grains, fruits, nuts and seeds! No preservatives, artificial colors or flavors, and zero trans fats…nothing but nature. With unique and wholesome ingredients from across the world. Snack better with kii Naturals™.

The Story of the Reko Pizzelle Cookie - Reko (2024)

FAQs

The Story of the Reko Pizzelle Cookie - Reko? ›

Our founder, Ces Nucci was inspired by the irresistible aroma of fresh sweet pizzelles griddling in the kitchen of his childhood home. In 1985, he set out to bring this delicious tradition to the rest of the world.

What is the story behind Pizzelles? ›

It is believed to have first been developed in central Italy to honor annual celebrations in ancient times. They have remained an important part of celebrations throughout Italy and even in the United States. The two holidays which the pizzelle is commonly used are Christmas and Easter.

What does pizzelle mean in Italian? ›

'Pizze' comes from the Italian word for 'round' and 'flat' (that's right, just like the word pizza) and the ending 'elle' means small.

What is the background of pizzelle? ›

Pizzelle originated centuries ago in the Abruzzo region of south-central Italy, according to 19th-century Italian historian Giuseppe Tassini, and are still common in the neighboring regions of Molise (formerly part of Abruzzo) and Lazio, home of Rome.

What is the oldest cookie in the world? ›

Pizzelles are believed to be the oldest cookie in history, first made in the 8th century in south-central Italy. The traditional pizzelle cookie is made from a sugar/butter-based batter that is pressed between two hot irons, usually sporting a design.

What is the original flavor of pizzelles? ›

Anise. This flavor is known as the 'traditional' flavor of pizzelles. The taste is that of black licorice . . . you either like it or not . . . there's no in between with this flavor.

Is pizzelle a girl? ›

Pizzelle was confirmed transfem by the developers in the Sugary Spire discord. This is a cause of frequent confusion, due to Pizzelle using any pronouns.

Are pizzelles Italian or French? ›

Pizzelle (Italian: [pitˈtsɛlle]; sg. : pizzella) are traditional Italian waffle cookies made from flour, eggs, sugar, butter or vegetable oil, and flavoring (usually anise or anisette, less commonly vanilla or lemon zest).

Why do pizzelles get soft? ›

*Tip: Make sure you fully cool your pizzelles and do not cover for several hours as they will get mushy and soft – you want them to stay crispy! That's why I love my metal tin or glass containers – they keep them nice and fresh! I never close the lid too tight – they need to breathe!

What is the full name of pizzelle? ›

Pizzelle's full name is Pizzelle "Suzette" Theodore, this is confirmed in the game's carrd. She was formerly named "Pizzelle Suzette". Former nicknames include "Twiggy", and curiously, "Pizzano."

What cookie is 111 years old? ›

Oreos are familiar, accessible, and darn good with or without a tall glass of chilled oat milk. Curious about the vegan nature of this 111-year-old cookie, we dove into the history (and the ingredients) of the iconic Oreo.

What is another name for pizzelle? ›

A treat by many names…

One thing I didn't realize is that pizzelles are called by many different names throughout the region. For instance: ferratelle, neole, cancellate, catarrette, coperchiole, nevole, and nivole.

What is the most eaten cookie in the world? ›

Oreo is the best-selling cookie in the world. It is now sold in over 100 countries. Oreo was first produced in 1912 by the National Biscuit Company, now known as Na-Bis-Co.

Why are pizzelles soft? ›

Undercooked – Pizzelle should be a very light golden brown. If they are soft – they might have needed a few more seconds in your iron.

Are pizzelles Norwegian? ›

Italian pizzelles are a traditional Italian sugar cookie served flat and plain, dipped in chocolate or sugared or can be rolled into a cone for filling with fruit or ice cream.

What is the ancient Roman Crustulum? ›

The closest relative of the pizzelle on record is the ancient Roman crustulum, a flatbread cooked in a pancake pan and on top of a craticula… which is reminiscent of a barbecue grate cooker. Similar variations go by the name ferratelle in the Lazio region and cancelle in Molise too.

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