What are Pfeffernüsse Cookies?
Pfeffernüsse cookies, known as German peppernuts in English, are small delicious round cookies that are traditionally prepared during the holiday season. They are very good, and they are packed with lots of spices!
The name “Pfeffernüsse” comes from the German word for pepper (“Pfeffer”). This reflects the slightly peppery kick in these spiced cookies. This is what they are known for!
Even tho they are very popular in Germany, these cookies are also enjoyed in other parts of Europe! Each region adds its unique twist to the recipe. Let me show you how to make them!
Why I Love This Recipe?
These homemade Pfeffernüsse cookies are Super easy to make. They are filled with traditional holiday flavors, and thats why i love them so much!
This recipe uses the authentic method, with molasses and a spice blend. It creates delicious cookies that are chewy, delicious, and full of Christmas spirit.
With a sweet icing on top, these cookies are perfect for gift giving or even adding to your holiday cookie platter.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions for Pfeffernüsse
Flour: All-purpose flour gives these cookies their structure. Substitute with whole wheat flour for a slightly denser texture.
Molasses and Honey: Adds a rich, deep flavor and dark color to the cookies. If molasses is unavailable, dark corn syrup can work, but molasses is best for authenticity.
Brown Sugar: Enhances the molasses flavor and keeps the cookies soft. Light brown sugar works well, but dark brown sugar adds extra depth.
Spices: A blend of cinnamon, anise, nutmeg, cardamom, and cloves provides the signature holiday flavor. Adjust the spices to taste if you prefer a milder flavor.
Black Pepper: A hint of ground black pepper adds a unique warmth and kick, balancing the sweetness.
Baking Powder & Baking Soda: These help the cookies rise slightly and give them a soft texture.
Egg: Binds the ingredients together. Use a flax egg for a vegan version.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Mixing Bowl: For combining the dough ingredients.
- Hand Mixer or Stand Mixer: Helps to thoroughly blend the dough.
- Baking Sheet: For baking the cookies.
- Parchment Paper: Prevents sticking and makes for easy cleanup.
- Whisk: For making the icing.
- Cooling Rack: Essential for cooling the cookies before icing.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Pfeffernüsse
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, sift together 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour, 1 tsp baking powder, ½ tsp baking soda, 1 tsp ground cinnamon, ½ tsp ground cloves, ½ tsp ground nutmeg, ½ tsp ground cardamom, ½ tsp ground anise, and ¼ tsp ground black pepper.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate large bowl, cream together ½ cup brown sugar and ¼ cup molasses and 4 tbsp of honey until smooth. Add 1 large egg and mix until fully combined.
- Form the Dough: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a thick dough forms. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 2: Shape and Bake the Cookies
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Shape the Cookies: Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie.
- Bake: Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are set and the cookies are puffed. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack.
Step 3: Prepare the Icing
- Make the Icing: In a small bowl, whisk together 1 cup powdered sugar, 2-3 tbsp milk, and ½ tsp vanilla extract until smooth. The icing should be thick but spreadable. Add more milk if needed to reach the right consistency.
- Ice the Cookies: Once the cookies have cooled completely, dip the tops in the icing and let any excess drip off. Place the cookies back on the cooling rack to allow the icing to set.
Expert Tips for the Best Pfeffernüsse
Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough helps the cookies hold their shape during baking and enhances the flavor.
Adjust the Spices: Feel free to adjust the spices based on your preference. If you love a strong spice flavor, increase the cinnamon or add a pinch more pepper.
Use Fresh Spices: For the best flavor, use fresh spices as they lose potency over time. Freshly ground spices make a noticeable difference in taste.
Serving Suggestions
Pfeffernüsse are delicious on their own, but they pair wonderfully with a hot cup of tea or coffee.
For an extra festive touch, serve them alongside other German holiday treats like Lebkuchen or Stollen. These cookies also make lovely holiday gifts when packed in a decorative tin.
Make-Ahead and Storage
- Make-Ahead: You can prepare the dough a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator and bake when ready.
- Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
- Freezing: These cookies freeze well. Store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Let thaw at room temperature before serving.
Authentic German Pfeffernüsse Cookies Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: About 24 cookies 1x
Description
Deliciously spiced German Pfeffernüsse cookies with a sweet icing are perfect for the holiday season. Make them with this simple recipe!
Ingredients
For the Cookies:
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground cloves
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/2 tsp ground cardamom
- 1/2 tsp ground anise
- 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 5 tbsp butter
- 1/4 cup molasses
- 4 large tbsp of honey
- 1 large egg
For the Icing:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2–3 tbsp milk
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare Dough: Mix flour, baking powder, baking soda, and spices. In a separate bowl, cream together the brown sugar and butter until combined. Mix in the molasses, honey, and egg until smooth.Gradually add dry ingredients until a dough forms. Chill for 1 hour.
- Shape and Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll dough into 1-inch balls and place them at least 2 inches apart on the baking sheet. If the dough has warmed up while shaping, refrigerate the tray for 15–20 minutes before baking. Bake for 10–12 minutes.
- Make Icing: Whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Dip tops of cooled cookies in icing and let set.
Notes
Spice Adjustments: Adjust spices to your liking for a milder or stronger flavor.
Icing Consistency: Add more milk to thin or more sugar to thicken the icing as needed.
If the dough feels very soft after chilling, mix in 1–2 additional tablespoons of flour. The dough should be firm enough to roll into balls without sticking heavily to your hands.
If the cookies spread too much, the dough is likely too warm or too soft. Chill the dough longer and make sure flour is measured accurately.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus 1 hour chilling)
- Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: German
Nutrition
- Calories: 70
- Sugar: 12g
- Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Protein: 1g
Nutrition information
This website gives estimated nutritional information, which might change depending on the ingredients used.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make Pfeffernüsse without molasses?
Yes, you can substitute dark corn syrup or honey, but molasses provides the most authentic flavor.
Why is there black pepper in Pfeffernüsse?
The pepper adds a slight warmth and depth to the cookies, balancing the sweetness of the icing.
How long do Pfeffernüsse cookies last?
They can last up to a week in an airtight container, and they also freeze well for longer storage.
Hello! I have made these delicious biscuits twice now and each time the shape doesn’t hold – meaning the biscuits flatten out and if I’m not very, very careful, they merge into one another. I resorted to making very small balls and putting the tray into the freezer, in the hope that they would hold their form but they still flattened out. I would really love to have the same traditional shape that you have. I’d be so grateful for your advice as to how you think I might be able to get the correct shape. Regards Vivien from Canberra, Australia
Hello Vivien! 😊
Thank you for trying the recipe and for such detailed feedback.
The cookies should spread only slightly and stay fairly round. If they’re flattening a lot, it usually means the dough is a little too soft or warm. Chilling the dough longer (even overnight) can help, and if your kitchen is warm, keeping the shaped dough balls chilled until baking is a good idea.
I’m going to double-check the recipe measurements as well, since these cookies should hold their shape much better than what you’re describing.
Thank you for letting me know, and I appreciate you taking the time to share your results! 😊