Spiced Holiday Pepper Nuts Recipe

Pepper Nuts (Pfeffernusse) Recipe

Description

Pepper Nuts, or Pfeffernusse in German, are a delightful Christmas treat that brings back nostalgic memories of childhood. These small, crunchy cookies are perfect for snacking or gifting during the holiday season. Prepared with traditional spices like ginger, cinnamon, and star anise, they are a festive addition to any dessert spread.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 2 hours
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 2 ice cream pails (large batch)

Ingredients

• 3 cups corn syrup
• 3 cups sugar
• 2 cups ginger
• 3 cups baking powder
• 1 cup star anise
• 2 cups cinnamon
• 1 cup flour

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough

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   • In a large mixing bowl, combine corn syrup and sugar until well blended.

2. Add Spices

   • Stir in ginger, baking powder, star anise, cinnamon, and flour. Mix until the dough forms and all ingredients are evenly distributed.

3. Chill the Dough

   • Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or until firm. Chilling helps the dough become easier to handle.

4. Preheat the Oven

   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line large cookie sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.

5. Shape the Cookies

   • Divide the chilled dough into manageable portions. Roll each portion into thin ropes about the size of your pointer finger.

6. Cut into Pieces

   • Using a sharp knife, cut the ropes into 3/4-inch lengths. You may find it helpful to freeze the ropes briefly before cutting to maintain their shape.

7. Bake

   • Place the cookie pieces on the prepared baking sheets, leaving space between them to allow for spreading. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the cookies are lightly golden and firm to the touch.

8. Cool and Store

   • Remove from the oven and allow the Pepper Nuts to cool completely on wire racks. Once cooled, store them in airtight containers. They can be stored for several weeks and actually improve in flavor over time.

Serving Tips

• Pepper Nuts are best enjoyed with a hot cup of coffee or tea, or as a sweet snack any time of day.
• Package them in festive containers or gift bags to share with friends and family during Christmas gatherings.

Notes

• This recipe makes a large batch suitable for filling multiple ice cream pails, making it perfect for holiday parties or gift-giving.
• Feel free to adjust the spices according to your preference. Some variations include adding cloves or nutmeg for additional warmth.

Enjoy these nostalgic Pepper Nuts (Pfeffernusse) and create cherished holiday memories with your loved ones!