Name: Pfeffernusse Cookies Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: German
Ingredients: 1/2 cup butter, cool room temperature; 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed; 1/2 cup molasses; 1 large egg; 3 ¼ cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger; 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves; 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1/4 teaspoon cardamom; Pinch or two of ground white pepper; Powdered sugar, for dusting

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Introduction

Pfeffernusse cookies are soft, spiced treats traditionally enjoyed during the holiday season. These delightful cookies feature warm spices and a hint of pepper, balanced by a sweet molasses flavor. Perfect with a cup of tea or coffee, they bring cozy comfort to any table.

A white oval plate holds about ten round cookies, each with a light brown color and textured ridges on top. The cookies are dusted generously with white powdered sugar, giving a soft, snowy look against their warm brown surface. The plate sits on a wooden table next to a red cloth with white and gold thread fringes at the edge. The cookies are stacked slightly, with some overlapping each other, showing detail in their crumbly texture. The background has a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1/2 cup butter at cool room temperature
3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
1/2 cup molasses
1 large egg
3 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon cardamom
Pinch or two of ground white pepper
Powdered sugar for sprinkling

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line cookie sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats and set aside.
Step 2: In a large bowl, beat the butter and brown sugar together until well-combined and creamy, about 2-3 minutes on medium speed. Scrape down the sides as needed.
Step 3: Add the molasses and continue mixing on medium speed until fully incorporated, about 1-2 minutes.
Step 4: Add the egg and mix until well blended, about 1 minute.
Step 5: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, nutmeg, cardamom, and white pepper.
Step 6: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until a stiff dough forms.
Step 7: Scoop dough by tablespoonfuls and place on the prepared cookie sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Step 8: Bake for 7-10 minutes, or until the tops and edges are set but not browned.
Step 9: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 10: Once cooled, sprinkle the cookies generously with powdered sugar before serving.

Tips & Variations

For a softer texture, try adding one tablespoon of milk to the dough.
Use freshly ground spices for a more vibrant flavor.
If you prefer a less spicy cookie, reduce the white pepper to a small pinch.
These cookies can be rolled in powdered sugar while still slightly warm for a classic look.

Storage

Store Pfeffernusse cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. They can also be frozen for up to two months; thaw at room temperature before serving. Reheat gently in a warm oven for a few minutes if you prefer them slightly warm.

How to Serve

A white oval plate holds a pile of round brown cookies, each with visible cracks and lines on the top surface, dusted lightly with white powdered sugar. The cookies are arranged loosely in the center of the plate, showing their textured and slightly rough outer layer. The plate rests on a wooden table with a woven red cloth partially underneath. A white bowl and a metal powder sifter with a white handle are nearby on the table. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

What makes Pfeffernusse cookies different from other spice cookies?

Pfeffernusse cookies are uniquely flavored with a combination of warm spices including white pepper, which adds a subtle heat and complexity not commonly found in other spice cookies.

Can I use dark molasses instead of regular molasses?

Yes, dark molasses will give the cookies a richer, deeper flavor and a darker color. It’s a great substitute if you prefer a more robust molasses taste.