Pfeffernuesse (Pepper Nut) Cookies
Pepper Nut Cookies, with warm spices and a hint of sweetness, offer a festive crunch perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy snacking with family and friends.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix flour with baking soda in a large bowl.
- Beat sugar with oleo with an electric mixer at high speed until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the egg, then add spices and corn syrup, blending well.
- At low speed, stir in flour, 1 cup at a time, until well mixed.
- Cover dough and refrigerate for 1 hour or overnight.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or allspice to the spice mix. If you prefer a less sweet cookie, reduce the sugar by 1/4 cup. Ensure the oleo is softened to room temperature for easier mixing. Keep the dough covered while refrigerating to prevent it from drying out.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Pfeffernuesse cookies alongside a steaming cup of spiced tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat. They also pair beautifully with Cream Puffs With Fruit Sauce for a festive dessert platter. Consider dusting them with powdered sugar for an elegant finish before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Pfeffernuesse cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. To enjoy, thaw at room temperature or warm briefly in the oven.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pfeffernuesse (Pepper Nut) Cookies contains roughly 294 calories, with 3g protein, 78g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (37% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (31% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1252mg per serving (54% 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 different types of flour for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute part or all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor and added nutrition. However, be aware that this may alter the texture slightly, making the cookies denser.
What can I use instead of oleo?
If you don't have oleo, you can substitute with an equal amount of unsalted butter or margarine. For a dairy-free option, use a plant-based butter alternative, ensuring it has a similar consistency for the best results.
How can I make these cookies more festive?
To add a festive touch, consider incorporating chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, or adding dried fruits such as cranberries or raisins into the dough. You can also dip the cooled cookies in chocolate for a decadent 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).