Imagine biting into a perfectly spiced cookie that transports you straight to the cozy Christmas markets of Germany. Pfeffernusse, or "pepper nuts," are not just cookies – they're a delightful journey of warm spices, rich molasses, and festive memories that dance on your taste buds. These little gems are packed with a symphony of cinnamon, ginger, and cloves, creating a treat so irresistible that one bite will have you falling in love with traditional German baking.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: German
Serves: 48 cookies
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup molasses
- 1 egg
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients and allow butter and egg to come to room temperature for easier mixing.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and salt until thoroughly combined and no lumps remain.
- In a large stand mixer or using a hand mixer, cream together softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add molasses and egg to the butter mixture, beating until completely incorporated and smooth.
- Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until a soft dough forms.
- Cover the dough and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight, to allow spices to meld and dough to firm up.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Remove dough from refrigerator and roll into small 1-inch balls using your hands.
- Place cookie balls about
- 5 inches apart on prepared baking sheets.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until edges are slightly firm and cookies are set but not darkened.
- Remove from oven and let cookies cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes.
- Transfer cookies to a wire rack and dust generously with powdered sugar while still warm.
- Allow cookies to cool completely, then dust again with powdered sugar if desired.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
Tips
- Temperature Matters: Ensure your butter and egg are at room temperature for smoother mixing and better cookie texture.
- Chilling is Key: Don't skip the refrigeration step! Chilling the dough for at least an hour helps develop deeper flavors and prevents spreading during baking.
- Uniform Size: Use a small cookie scoop or roll balls of equal size to ensure even baking.
- Powdered Sugar Technique: Dust the cookies with powdered sugar while they're still warm for better sugar adhesion, and then again once completely cooled for an extra festive look.
- Storage Tip: These cookies actually taste better after a day or two, as the spices continue to meld and develop a richer flavor profile.
- Make Ahead: The dough can be prepared in advance and refrigerated for up to 3 days, making holiday baking even more convenient.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 95kcal
Carbohydrates: 13g
Protein: 1g
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 15mg
