Pfeffernusse (German Pepper Nut Cookies) Recipe
Overview:
Pfeffernusse, or German Pepper Nut Cookies, is a delightful treat that brings a burst of spice and warmth to your holiday season. Originally from Williams Sonoma, this recipe has been a cherished favorite in many families for years. With its unique blend of spices and irresistible aroma, it’s sure to become a staple in your holiday baking tradition.
- Recipe By: Williams Sonoma
- Cuisine: German, Scandinavian, European
- Category: Dessert
- Keywords: Cookie & Brownie, German, Scandinavian, European, Christmas, < 60 Mins
- Aggregated Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
- Review Count: Not available
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: 155.4 per serving
- Fat: 4.2g
- Saturated Fat: 2.5g
- Cholesterol: 17.9mg
- Sodium: 68.8mg
- Carbohydrates: 28.4g
- Fiber: 0.4g
- Sugar: 18.4g
- Protein: 1.5g
Ingredients:
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 2 1/4 | cups all-purpose flour |
| 1/2 | tsp salt |
| 1/2 | tsp ground black pepper |
| 1/2 | tsp anise seed |
| 1/2 | tsp ground cinnamon |
| 1/4 | tsp baking soda |
| 1/4 | tsp ground allspice |
| 1/4 | tsp ground nutmeg |
| 1/8 | tsp ground cloves |
| 1/2 | cup unsalted butter |
| 3/4 | cup light brown sugar |
| 1/4 | cup light molasses |
| 1 | egg |
| 2 | cups confectioners’ sugar |
Instructions:
1. Prepare Dry Ingredients:
- In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, salt, black pepper, anise seed, cinnamon, baking soda, allspice, nutmeg, and cloves. Ensure they are well combined.
2. Cream Butter and Sugar:
- In a large bowl, using an electric mixer set on medium speed, beat together the unsalted butter, light brown sugar, and molasses until light and fluffy. This typically takes about 4 minutes.
3. Add Egg:
- Beat in the egg until fully incorporated into the butter and sugar mixture.
4. Incorporate Dry Ingredients:
- Reduce the mixer speed to low and gradually beat in the sifted dry ingredients until a dough forms. Ensure everything is well combined.
5. Chill Dough:
- Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for several hours, or until firm. Chilling the dough helps to enhance the flavors and makes it easier to handle.
6. Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Position a rack in the middle of the oven for even baking.
7. Shape Dough:
- Butter 2 baking sheets to prevent sticking. Using your hands, scoop up pieces of dough and roll them between your palms to form balls approximately 1 1/2 inches in diameter.
8. Bake:
- Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake in the preheated oven until the cookies are golden brown on the bottom and firm to the touch, approximately 14 minutes.
9. Coat with Sugar:
- While the cookies are still warm, transfer them to a cooling rack. Place the confectioners’ sugar in a sturdy paper bag. Drop a few cookies into the bag, close the top securely, and shake gently to coat the warm cookies with the sugar. This creates a delightful powdered sugar coating.
10. Cool Completely:
- Transfer the sugar-coated cookies back to the cooling rack and let them cool completely. Repeat the coating process with the remaining cookies until all are coated and cooled.
11. Storage:
- Once cooled, store the Pfeffernusse cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. They can also be frozen for longer storage.
Serving Suggestions:
- Enjoy these delightful Pfeffernusse cookies with a cup of hot cocoa, mulled wine, or your favorite festive beverage. They make a perfect addition to holiday cookie platters or as homemade gifts for friends and family.
Conclusion:
Pfeffernusse cookies are a delightful blend of spices and sweetness, perfect for adding a touch of holiday magic to any occasion. With their irresistible flavor and charming appearance, they are sure to become a beloved tradition in your home. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and embark on a journey of festive baking with this delightful recipe. Happy baking! 🍪✨
