If you want to make pizzelle, the first thing you need is a good pizzelle maker. But there are so many available, from the new nonstick models with lots of features to the basic aluminum ones you might remember in your grandma's kitchen. With so many out there, how do you decide which one is the best one for you?

When investing in a pizzelle maker, it's a good idea to buy the best one you can afford. If you make them often, then using a good iron will allow it to withstand the use it receives. If they aren't made often, then a good iron may be the only one you'll ever buy.

When shopping for a new pizzelle iron, knowing what other people are saying is helpful, so it's a good idea to check online reviews, too. When more than one reviewer writes about something good or bad about the product, keep that comment in mind. After all, if many people are complaining about a feature, chances are that it will cause you trouble, too.

Pay attention to a few specific points when checking reviews. For example, does this iron maintain a steady temperature? Although the temperature naturally varies whole opening and closing the iron, if it doesn't hold a steady temperature well, cooking will be uneven.

Another thing you'll want to watch for is reports of sticking when the cookies are removed from the iron. A nonstick iron is not essential for this. An oiled aluminum plate shouldn't stick either. Also, will it be easy to use? Are the latches sturdy and do the indicator lights work well? Is cleanup easy, or will it take some work to get into some difficult corners of the iron after you use it each time? Think of these things now so that you don’t run into problems later after you’ve selected and purchased your iron.

If you do some research and think of the features you need beforehand, then it will help to ensure that your new pizzelle maker will work well for you in the future.