Aunt Margaret'S Peppernuts
Peppernuts are spiced, crunchy cookies with bold flavors of cinnamon, cloves, and pepper, perfect for holiday gatherings or as a festive treat for spice lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients and roll into ropes.
- Cut into 1/2-inch pieces.
- Bake in a 400°F oven for 7 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more intense flavor, consider using freshly grated spices instead of pre-ground ones. If you're out of molasses, you can substitute with honey or maple syrup, but this may alter the flavor slightly. Ensure your butter is softened for easier mixing, and don't hesitate to adjust the amount of flour to achieve a stiff dough consistency suitable for rolling.
Serving Suggestions
These peppernuts make a delightful snack on their own, but they can also be served alongside a warm beverage, such as coffee or tea. For a festive touch, consider pairing them with Helen'S Favorite Lime Sherbet for a refreshing contrast. They are perfect for holiday gatherings or as a sweet treat to share with friends and family.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover peppernuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. For longer storage, consider freezing them in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. To reheat, simply place them in a warm oven for a few minutes until they regain their crispness without losing moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aunt Margaret'S Peppernuts contains roughly 991 calories, with 14g protein, 142g carbohydrates, and 48g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (144% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (125% of the Daily Value), and calcium (54% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1663mg per serving (72% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of flour for this recipe?
Yes, you can use whole wheat flour or a gluten-free blend if desired. Keep in mind that this may affect the texture slightly, so adjust the flour quantity as needed to achieve a stiff dough. Experimenting with different flours can add a unique flavor to your peppernuts.
How do I know when the peppernuts are done baking?
The peppernuts are done when they are lightly browned and firm to the touch. Baking them for the full 7 minutes at 400°F should yield the right texture, but keep an eye on them to prevent over-baking, which can lead to a hard texture.
Can I double this recipe for a larger batch?
Absolutely! Doubling the recipe is a great way to ensure you have enough peppernuts for gatherings or gifting. Just be sure to mix the ingredients in a larger bowl to accommodate the increased volume, and adjust your baking sheets accordingly to avoid overcrowding in the oven.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).