Pepper Snaps
Pepper Snaps are spicy, sweet cookies with a delightful kick of black pepper and warm cinnamon. They offer a perfect balance of flavors, making them a unique treat for those who enjoy bold, aromatic baked goods. Ideal for holiday gatherings or a spicy snack any time of year.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a small bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cinnamon, black ground pepper, salt, and baking soda. Set aside.
- In a medium bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until smooth and fluffy.
- Add eggs to the creamed mixture; beat well.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring just until blended.
- Wrap the dough in wax paper or clear plastic and refrigerate for several hours or overnight.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Form half teaspoon of dough into small balls.
- Place the dough balls on a greased cookie sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for approximately 10 minutes, until lightly browned.
- Remove from oven and cool on wire racks.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider increasing the black ground pepper slightly or adding a pinch of cayenne. If you prefer a sweeter cookie, you can substitute half of the sugar with brown sugar for a richer flavor. Make sure to cream the butter and sugar until fluffy for the best texture. If you find the dough too sticky, add a little more flour while kneading.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Pepper Snaps alongside a warm cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat. They also make a fun addition to a dessert platter, especially with other sweet treats like Chocolate Oatmeal Candy. Consider pairing them with a fruit compote for a refreshing contrast to the spice.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Pepper Snaps in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze them in a zip-top bag for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or warm in the oven for a few minutes to regain their crispness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pepper Snaps contains roughly 1286 calories, with 5g protein, 48g carbohydrates, and 121g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (48% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2444mg per serving (106% 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 gluten-free flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute gluten-free all-purpose flour in this recipe. Make sure your blend contains xanthan gum, which helps mimic the texture of traditional flour. The cookies may turn out slightly different in texture but should still be delicious.
What can I do if my dough is too soft to handle?
If your dough feels too soft, try chilling it for an additional 30 minutes in the refrigerator. This will help firm it up, making it easier to roll into balls. Alternatively, you can add a tablespoon of flour at a time until you reach the desired consistency.
Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to the recipe?
Absolutely! Adding chopped nuts or chocolate chips can enhance the flavor and texture of your Pepper Snaps. Just be mindful of the additional ingredients' size and moisture content, as it may slightly alter the baking time.
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).