Peppernoetter(Peppernuts)
Peppernoetter cookies offer a spicy, aromatic flavor profile with black pepper, cinnamon, and cardamom, perfect for those who enjoy bold, spicy treats with a crisp texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream the sugar and margarine or butter together until smooth and fluffy.
- Stir in the cream until well combined.
- Sift in the white flour and baking soda, then stir well to form a dough. It may be a little difficult to stir; you might want to work in with your hands.
- Sift together the cinnamon, ground black pepper, and cardamom.
- Add the spice mixture to the dough and stir well to incorporate.
- Roll the dough into 3/4-inch (about 2 cm) balls.
- Place the balls on a greased cookie sheet, spaced 1 1/2 inches apart.
- Bake at 350°F to 375°F (about 180°C to 190°C) for 10 to 12 minutes, until cookies are slightly flattened and still rounded and plump.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider substituting half of the margarine with unsweetened applesauce. If you prefer a spicier kick, increase the black pepper to 1 1/2 teaspoons. Make sure to sift your dry ingredients thoroughly to ensure an even distribution of spices. If the dough feels too sticky, add a little more flour gradually until manageable.
Serving Suggestions
These Peppernoetter cookies are delightful served with a cup of hot tea or coffee. They can also be paired with a cheese platter, as their spiced flavor complements creamy cheeses beautifully. For a festive touch, consider serving them alongside Palm's Swedish Sugar Cookies during holiday gatherings for a sweet treat variety.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Peppernoetter in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze them in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. To enjoy them again, simply thaw at room temperature or warm briefly in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for a few minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Peppernoetter(Peppernuts) contains roughly 151 calories, with 2g protein, 18g carbohydrates, and 8g 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 whole wheat flour instead of white flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for white flour, but keep in mind that it may result in denser cookies. You might want to reduce the amount slightly or add an extra tablespoon of cream to maintain moisture.
What can I substitute for margarine if I prefer not to use it?
You can replace margarine with an equal amount of coconut oil or unsalted butter for a richer taste. If you're looking for a dairy-free alternative, use a plant-based butter substitute that is suitable for baking.
How can I make these cookies more festive?
To add a festive touch, consider incorporating chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans into the dough. You can also drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled cookies or sprinkle with colored sugar before baking for a holiday-themed appearance.
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).