Pfeffernüsse Cookies: Traditional German Holiday Spice Treats

Pfeffernüsse Cookies: A German Holiday Classic

Kick off your holiday baking with these aromatic pfeffernusse, traditional German Christmas cookies spiced with black pepper, cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, ginger, and nutmeg.

Why You’ll Love These Spiced Cookies

• Authentic German flavor: A peppery twist that surprises the palate.
• Perfect for gifting: These little cookies keep their shape and stay fresh for weeks.
• Easy prep: Chill the dough, roll into balls, and bake!

Ingredients for Pfeffernüsse

• ½ cup molasses
• ½ cup honey
• ½ cup vegetable shortening
• ½ cup margarine, softened
• 1½ cups granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• ½ teaspoon ground cloves
• ½ teaspoon ground cardamom
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• Pinch of salt
• Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Heat the syrups: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine molasses, honey, shortening, and margarine. Stir until melted and smooth. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
2. Mix sugar and eggs: In a large bowl, beat granulated sugar and eggs until light and fluffy. Gradually pour in the cooled syrup mixture, mixing well.
3. Sift dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together flour, baking soda, spices, and salt. Slowly add to the wet ingredients, stirring until a soft dough forms.
4. Chill the dough: Cover the dough and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight) to let flavors develop.
5. Shape the cookies: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper. Roll chilled dough into 1-inch balls and place 2 inches apart on prepared sheets.
6. Bake: Bake for 12–15 minutes or until tops are just set. The centers should remain slightly soft.
7. Cool and dust: Let cookies cool on sheets for 5 minutes, then transfer to wire racks. Dust with powdered sugar while still warm for that classic snowy look.

Tips for Perfect Pfeffernüsse

• Spice balance: Adjust black pepper to your preference—more for a bolder kick.
• Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature; they stay fresh for up to 3 weeks.
• Make-ahead: Dough freezes well—defrost overnight in the fridge before baking.

Nutritional Information

284 kcal |
54 g carbs |
4 g protein |
6 g fat |
30 g sugar |
213 mg sodium

Serving and Presentation

Arrange your pfeffernüsse on a festive platter, add a sprinkle of powdered sugar, and watch these pepper-spiced delights vanish at your next gathering!