For a deeper spice flavor, consider adding a pinch of white pepper to the dough. Chilling the dough is crucial for preventing the cookies from spreading too thin during baking and allows the spices to meld together beautifully. If the icing becomes too thick, add a tiny splash more lemon juice. If it's too thin, add a bit more powdered sugar. Store the completely cooled and iced cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They tend to soften slightly over time, enhancing their chewy texture.
Pfeffernüsse (German "Pepper-Nut" Christmas Cookies)
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PREP TIME40 mins
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COOK TIME45 mins
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TOTAL TIME25 hrs 50 mins
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SERVING52 People
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VIEWS85
Embark on a journey of festive flavors with Pfeffernüsse, the enigmatic 'pepper-nut' cookies that defy their name. Forget the literal – these spice-kissed spheres are a symphony of warming winter notes, a textural dance of soft chewiness beneath a delicate, crisp icing. They're more than just cookies; they're edible holiday memories waiting to be shared.
Ingridients
Adjust Servings
Nutrition
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Carbohydrate16 g
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Cholesterol4 mg
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Fiber0 g
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Protein1 g
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Saturated Fat0 g
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Sodium82 mg
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Fat0 g
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Unsaturated Fat0 g
Follow The Directions
01
StepIn a medium saucepan, combine both sugars, honey, water, cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, nutmeg, allspice, cloves, and cayenne pepper. Place over medium heat and whisk constantly until the sugars are dissolved and the mixture just begins to simmer. (1-2 minutes)
02
StepRemove from heat immediately and allow to cool slightly. (4-5 minutes)
03
StepAdd salt, baking soda, heavy cream, and beaten egg. Whisk until everything is thoroughly combined.
04
StepGradually add the flour, stirring with a wooden spoon until a dough forms.
05
StepTransfer the dough to plastic wrap, form into a ball, and wrap tightly. Refrigerate for at least 24 hours, or up to 48 hours for optimal flavor development.
06
StepWhen ready to bake, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
07
StepRemove the dough from the refrigerator. Scoop rounded teaspoons of dough and gently roll them into smooth balls (optional). Place them on the prepared baking sheets, leaving some space between each cookie.
08
StepBake in the center of the preheated oven until the cookies are domed and the bottoms are lightly golden brown. Be careful not to overbake! (9-10 minutes)
09
StepAllow the cookies to cool completely on the baking sheets. (20-30 minutes)
10
StepWhile the cookies are cooling, prepare the icing: In a bowl, combine the powdered sugar and lemon juice. Add the lemon juice a teaspoon at a time, stirring until you reach a thick, yet slightly runny consistency.
11
StepOnce the cookies are completely cool, dip the top of each cookie into the icing, allowing any excess to drip off. Place the iced cookies on a wire rack set over parchment paper to allow the icing to harden completely.
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Pink Bosco
May 1, 2025I've made these Pfeffernüsse for years, and they're always a hit. The recipe is easy to follow, and the results are delicious.
Myrtis Harber
Apr 16, 2025The icing is the perfect finishing touch. It's sweet and tangy, and it complements the spices beautifully.
Brycen Pollich
Mar 24, 2025These cookies are amazing! The spices are perfectly balanced, and the texture is just right.
William Okeefeadams
Mar 5, 2025I love that these cookies are soft and chewy, unlike some other Christmas cookies that can be dry and crumbly.
Abel Kozey
Sep 16, 2024I added a bit of orange zest to the dough for an extra layer of flavor. It was a great addition!
Derick Fay
Sep 14, 2024Be patient and let the dough chill for at least a day. It makes a big difference in the flavor and texture of the cookies.