Pepper Cons(Snack)
Pepper Cons are spicy, sweet cookies with a rich blend of spices and nuts, perfect for festive occasions or as a flavorful treat for cookie lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix granulated sugar, brown sugar, and Crisco until well combined.
- Add eggs and hot water; mix thoroughly.
- Combine all dry ingredients: salt, soda, cloves, baking powder, ginger, cinnamon, and anise oil.
- Gradually stir the dry mixture into the wet mixture until fully incorporated.
- Use a small measuring spoon to shape the dough into balls.
- Place the balls on a cookie sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 8 to 11 minutes until lightly browned.
- Allow cookies to cool before transferring to an airtight container or jar with a lid.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider substituting half of the Crisco with unsalted butter. If you want to reduce sugar, you can cut both the granulated and brown sugar by a third without significantly affecting the texture. Make sure to mix the dry ingredients well to avoid clumping. Experiment with different nuts or even add chocolate chips for a delightful twist.
Serving Suggestions
These Pepper Cons are perfect for a snack or dessert. Serve them alongside a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat. They also pair beautifully with the Strawberry Bavarian In Chocolate Shell for a special occasion. For a festive touch, consider adding a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze the cookies for up to three months. To reheat, simply pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes to regain their freshness and warmth.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pepper Cons(Snack) contains roughly 65 calories, with 1g protein, 15g carbohydrates, and 0g fat.
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 fat instead of Crisco?
Yes, you can substitute Crisco with unsalted butter or coconut oil for a different flavor profile. Just note that the texture might vary slightly, with butter providing a richer taste and coconut oil adding a hint of tropical flavor.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure the blend you choose contains xanthan gum or add it separately to ensure the dough holds together properly during baking.
How can I make these cookies more spicy?
To enhance the spice level, consider increasing the amount of ginger and cinnamon, or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a little heat. You can also incorporate a teaspoon of black pepper to give them a unique kick.
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).