Pfeffernuesse(A Christmas Cookie)
Pfeffernuesse are spiced German Christmas cookies bursting with warm flavors like cinnamon, cloves, and black pepper, perfect for festive gatherings and cookie exchanges.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Flour may be kneaded in when ready to roll.
- Roll out the dough and cut into thimble-sized pieces.
- Bake at 350°F for 10 minutes until lightly browned.
- Enjoy by the hands full.
Tips & Substitutions
To achieve the best texture, make sure your butter is softened but not melted. If you prefer a spicier flavor, feel free to increase the black pepper or add a pinch of cayenne. For a gluten-free option, you can substitute the flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Knead in just enough flour until the dough is manageable, but avoid overworking it to keep the cookies tender.
Serving Suggestions
These Pfeffernuesse cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings and pair beautifully with a cup of spiced tea or coffee. Consider serving them alongside a festive cheese plate, perhaps featuring a Spicy Cheddar Spread for a savory contrast. They also make great gifts when packaged in decorative tins for friends and family.
Storage & Reheating
Store the Pfeffernuesse in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. To reheat, place the cookies in a preheated oven at 300°F for about 5 minutes to regain their warmth and softness without losing their flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pfeffernuesse(A Christmas Cookie) contains roughly 641 calories, with 10g protein, 96g carbohydrates, and 29g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (50% of the Daily Value), calcium (45% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (40% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 680mg per serving (30% 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 substitute the molasses with something else?
Yes, you can substitute molasses with dark corn syrup or honey, though this will alter the flavor slightly. If using honey, choose a darker variety for a richer taste. Keep in mind that molasses adds moisture, so you may need to adjust the flour quantity accordingly.
How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
The cookies are done when they turn lightly browned on the edges and are firm to the touch. They may look slightly underbaked in the center but will continue to set as they cool. Avoid overbaking to keep them chewy and flavorful.
Can I add nuts or dried fruits to the dough?
Absolutely! Chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans, as well as dried fruits like raisins or cranberries, can add delightful texture and flavor to your Pfeffernuesse. Just make sure to adjust the flour slightly if you add a significant amount of mix-ins.
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).