Peppernuts
Peppernuts are traditional spiced cookies with a crunchy exterior and a hint of nutmeg and lemon. Perfect for holiday celebrations or as a flavorful treat, these cookies offer a delightful blend of sweetness and warm spices that appeal to all ages and pair well with tea or coffee.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Beat together eggs, sugar, and shortening in a large bowl at high speed until creamy, about 3 minutes.
- Turn mixer to low speed. Sift all dry ingredients, except soda, together.
- Add gradually to the creamed mixture, alternating with sour milk to which soda has been added.
- Increase to medium speed and mix for 1 to 2 minutes when the mixture becomes stiffer.
- If possible, allow the dough to stand in a cool place to stiffen before rolling and cutting.
- Roll out the dough and cut into desired shapes. Decorate with sugars or raisins if desired.
- Bake at 350°F for 12 to 15 minutes on greased cookie sheets.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using butter instead of shortening. If you don't have sour milk, you can make your own by adding a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to regular milk and letting it sit for a few minutes. Ensure that the dough is chilled for easier handling and cleaner cuts. Experiment with various decorations like colored sugars or chocolate chips to enhance the appearance and taste.
Serving Suggestions
Peppernuts make a delightful snack or dessert on their own, but they also pair beautifully with hot beverages like coffee or tea. Consider serving them alongside Swiss Creamed Peas for a unique flavor contrast. For holiday gatherings, these cookies can be presented on a decorative platter, making them an inviting treat for guests.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover peppernuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag. To reheat, simply place them in a warm oven for a few minutes to restore their crispness without drying them out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Peppernuts contains roughly 351 calories, with 4g protein, 31g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. It also contributes 9g 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 substitute the eggs in this recipe?
Yes, you can replace the eggs with flaxseed meal or unsweetened applesauce for a vegan version. Use 1 tablespoon of flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water per egg or 1/4 cup of applesauce for each egg. This adjustment will maintain moisture and binding in the dough.
What can I do if my dough is too sticky?
If your dough is sticky, try adding a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a workable consistency. Additionally, chilling the dough in the refrigerator for 30 minutes can help firm it up, making it easier to roll out and cut into shapes.
Are there variations I can try with this recipe?
Absolutely! You can incorporate spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for added warmth, or add chopped nuts and dried fruits for different textures. For a festive touch, consider dipping the baked cookies in chocolate or drizzling them with icing for a delightful finish.
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).