Pfeffernüsse Recipe
German · Dessert · 37 min total
Pfeffernüsse are classic German spiced cookies traditionally enjoyed during the holiday season. This recipe yields perfectly spiced, slightly peppery cookies with a tender crumb.
25
min prep
min prep
12
min cook
min cook
48
servings
servings
70
kcal/serving
kcal/serving
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
- 1/4 teaspoon ground white pepper
- 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup molasses
- 1 cup powdered sugar for coating
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, cardamom, white pepper, and black pepper.
- In a large bowl, beat butter and brown sugar with an electric mixer until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes. Beat in egg and molasses until combined.
- Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Cover dough and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Shape dough into 1-inch balls and place 2 inches apart on prepared baking sheets.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, until edges are set and bottoms are lightly browned. Cool on baking sheets for 5 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
- Place powdered sugar in a shallow bowl. Roll cooled cookies in powdered sugar to coat.
Tips
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks; flavors meld and improve over time.
- For a stronger spice flavor, increase pepper or add a pinch of ground ginger.
- Cookies can be frozen before coating; thaw and roll in powdered sugar before serving.
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