Pebernodder
Pebernodder are traditional Danish pepper cookies with a spicy kick, rich buttery flavor, perfect for festive occasions or as a flavorful treat with coffee.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Break the cardamom pods, remove the seeds, and crush them with a wooden spoon to yield 1 1/2 to 2 teaspoons of crushed seed.
- In a large bowl, cream together 6 cups of butter or margarine and 7 cups of sugar until smooth and well combined.
- Add 6 cups of cream or milk to the mixture and blend thoroughly.
- In a separate bowl, combine 4 teaspoons of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of salt, and enough flour to make a stiff dough.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until a stiff dough forms.
- Incorporate the crushed cardamom seeds into the dough, mixing evenly.
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
- Cut into desired shapes and place on a greased baking sheet.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsalted butter instead of margarine. You can substitute half of the sugar with brown sugar for a deeper taste. If you prefer a more aromatic touch, try adding a pinch of nutmeg along with the cardamom. Ensure your dough is stiff enough to maintain its shape while baking, and flour your rolling surface generously to prevent sticking.
Serving Suggestions
Pebernodder are delightful on their own but can also be paired with a warm beverage like spiced tea or coffee. Serve them alongside a selection of cookies for a festive treat platter, or enjoy with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert. They also make a charming gift during the holiday season.
Storage & Reheating
Once cooled, store the pebernodder in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze them, layered between parchment paper, for up to three months. To enjoy them warm, reheat in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5-7 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pebernodder contains roughly 208 calories, with 4g protein, 18g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and dietary fiber. It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 for a nuttier flavor and added health benefits. However, this may slightly alter the texture, so you may need to adjust the amount to achieve the desired stiffness in the dough.
What can I do if my dough is too sticky?
If your dough is too sticky, gradually add more flour until you reach a stiff consistency that is manageable for rolling. Be careful not to add too much at once; small increments are best to ensure you don't compromise the dough's texture.
How can I enhance the flavor of the pebernodder?
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract or almond extract to the dough. You can also experiment with other spices like cinnamon or ginger for a different twist, making them even more aromatic and flavorful.
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).