If you want to add a new favorite to this year’s Christmas cookie exchange, these German Pfeffernüsse Cookies are an excellent choice.
Pfeffernüsse (also called pepernoten in the Netherlands) are small, spiced gingerbread-style cookies finished with a dusting of powdered sugar.
Table of Contents
- What are Pfeffernusse Cookies
- What’s in These German Gingerbread Cookies?
- How to Make Pfeffernusse Cookies
- Pfeffernuse Cookies Recipe
- My Favorite Christmas Cookies
What are Pfeffernusse Cookies
Originating in Germany, Pfeffernüsse are a holiday classic enjoyed across the season. The Dutch version, pepernoten, is similar in flavor and texture. These bite-sized cookies pair perfectly with coffee or tea and complement other international holiday treats.
The name Pfeffernüsse literally translates to “pepper nuts,” a nod to the warm, peppery spices used in the dough.
What’s in These German Gingerbread Cookies?
Pfeffernüsse combine sweet and warming spices with a bit of molasses and honey for depth. Common flavor components include:
- Anise extract
- Cardamom
- Allspice
- Nutmeg
- Cloves
- Ground black pepper
- Molasses
- Honey
These ingredients create a complex aroma and flavor that feels like a walk through a European bakery on a winter day.
How to Make Pfeffernusse Cookies
Begin by melting butter with molasses and honey in a small saucepan over medium-low heat. Once combined, remove from the heat and let the mixture cool slightly before adding an egg and anise extract.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients — flour, sugars, baking soda, and the blend of warming spices such as cinnamon, cardamom, allspice, cloves, nutmeg, ginger and a pinch of ground pepper. Combine the dry mix with the cooled wet ingredients to form a dough.
Wrap the dough and chill it in the refrigerator for about an hour. Chilling makes the dough easier to shape and helps the cookies keep their form while baking.
After chilling, preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Roll the dough into roughly 1-inch balls, place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, and bake for about 12 minutes. Allow the cookies to cool briefly, then roll them in powdered sugar for the traditional snowy finish.
These cookies are tempting when still warm, but let them cool slightly before coating in powdered sugar to achieve a light, even dusting.
Pfeffernüsse store well in an airtight container and will remain fresh for up to two weeks, making them perfect for baking ahead of a holiday party or cookie exchange.
If you’re sharing these with friends or gifting them, pack them in a decorative bag or tin for a simple, delicious present.
These Pfeffernüsse Cookies bring warmth and holiday spice to any cookie platter. Make a batch for your next gathering — they’re sure to be a hit.
Tried this recipe? Please leave a rating and comment in the recipe card below — we love hearing from readers!
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Pfeffernuse Cookies
Ingredients
- 2 cups flour
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup molasses
- 1/4 cup butter, unsalted
- 3 tbsp honey
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp anise extract
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp cardamom
- 1/2 tsp allspice
- 1/2 tsp cloves
- 1/2 tsp nutmeg
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
- 1/2 tsp ground ginger
- 1 pinch salt
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar (for coating)
Instructions
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Combine butter, molasses, and honey in a small saucepan over medium-low heat. Stir until melted and blended, remove from heat, and let cool slightly. Whisk in the egg and anise extract, then set aside.
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In a large bowl, mix the remaining dry ingredients (all spices, flours, sugars, baking soda, and salt). Add the cooled wet mixture and stir until a dough forms. Wrap the dough and chill in the refrigerator for about one hour.
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Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Roll the chilled dough into 1-inch balls, place on the sheet, and bake for about 12 minutes. Let the cookies cool briefly, then roll them in powdered sugar. Serve and enjoy.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is approximate and should be used as a guide.
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