German Pfeffernusse Cookies are traditional German peppernut cookies that exude warmth and festive cheer with every bite. These delightful treats are beloved during the Christmas season, known for their spiced flavor profile enriched by ground nuts and a touch of black pepper. Originally crafted as a holiday treat, these cookies have become a staple in many households, particularly during Advent celebrations. If you’re looking to add a touch of authenticity to your holiday baking, let’s dive into the wonderful world of these spiced German cookies!
Why You’ll Love This German Pfeffernusse Cookies
There are countless reasons why these cookies should make it onto your holiday baking list. First, their unique combination of spices and nuts provides a delightful flavor that truly embodies the essence of Christmas. Second, Pfeffernüsse biscuits are easy to make and can be prepared in just 30 minutes. Third, they are perfect for gifting or serving at holiday gatherings. Fourth, these cookies are suitable for various diets, including vegetarian options. Fifth, they can be decorated in numerous ways, making them a fun project to do with family. Lastly, they pair wonderfully with hot beverages like coffee or tea. Whether you are making traditional German Pfeffernüsse or experimenting with new flavors, these cookies are sure to bring joy.
Ingredients for German Pfeffernusse Cookies
Gather these items:
- 80 g butter
- 100 g granulated sugar
- 1 medium egg (room temperature)
- 100 g honey
- 250 g all-purpose flour (Germany type 405, UK plain flour, USA all-purpose or cake flour)
- 50 g ground almonds
- 50 g ground hazelnuts
- 2 tsp gingerbread spice (preferably homemade lebkuchen spice mix)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper (optional)
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 75 g powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 100 g dark chocolate (for dipping, optional)
How to Make German Pfeffernusse Cookies Step-by-Step
- Step 1: Mix the butter and granulated sugar until creamy and smooth. Add the egg and mix thoroughly.
- Step 2: If the honey is solid, gently warm it until liquid. Add honey, gingerbread spice, black pepper (if using), ground almonds, ground hazelnuts, flour, and baking powder to the butter mixture. Knead until a smooth dough forms.
- Step 3: Cover the dough with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. Let it rest at room temperature for at least one hour or overnight.
- Step 4: Preheat your oven to 160°C (320°F). Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
- Step 5: Portion out small amounts of dough and roll them into balls about the size of a walnut. Arrange on the lined baking sheet, leaving space between each ball.
- Step 6: Bake for about 15 minutes until firm to the touch. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Step 7: Mix powdered sugar with lemon juice to create a glaze.
- Step 8: Once cooled, dip the cookies in the glaze or brush it over the tops. Optionally, dip half in melted dark chocolate or drizzle chocolate over the glazed cookies. Allow to set before serving.
Pro Tips for the Perfect German Pfeffernusse Cookies
Keep these in mind:
- Let the dough rest for optimal flavor.
- Ensure cookies are firm to the touch before removing from the oven.
- For a gluten-free option, substitute all-purpose flour with almond flour or a gluten-free blend.
- Use a cookie scoop for evenly sized cookies.
Best Ways to Serve German Pfeffernusse Cookies
Here are a couple of ideas to enjoy your cookies:
- Pair them with hot cocoa or mulled wine during festive gatherings.
- Serve alongside other traditional German Christmas cookies for a delightful holiday platter.
How to Store and Reheat German Pfeffernusse Cookies
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can be made ahead and stored for up to two weeks. If you need to reheat, pop them in a warm oven for a few minutes, ensuring they remain soft.
Frequently Asked Questions About German Pfeffernusse Cookies
What’s the secret to perfect German Pfeffernusse Cookies?
The key to perfect Pfeffernüsse is allowing the dough to rest, which helps the spices meld together beautifully. This resting period enhances the overall flavor.
Can I make German Pfeffernusse Cookies ahead of time?
Absolutely! These cookies are great to prepare in advance. You can make the dough and refrigerate it or bake the cookies and store them for up to two weeks.
How do I avoid common mistakes with German Pfeffernusse Cookies?
To avoid issues, ensure that the dough is not over-kneaded and that cookies are not underbaked. Always check for a firm texture before removing them from the oven.
Variations of German Pfeffernusse Cookies You Can Try
If you want to mix things up, consider these variations:
- Make a gluten-free Pfeffernüsse version using almond flour.
- Add citrus zest for a fresh twist on the traditional flavor.
- Experiment with different nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, for a unique texture.
For more delicious holiday treats, check out our Gingerbread Tiramisu or Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies.
For more information on the history of these cookies, you can visit The Spruce Eats.
Print
German Pfeffernusse Cookies: 7 Irresistible Treats for Christmas
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Traditional German peppernut cookies known for their warm, spiced flavor enhanced with ground nuts and a hint of black pepper. Perfect for the Christmas season.
Ingredients
- 80 g butter
- 100 g granulated sugar
- 1 medium egg (room temperature)
- 100 g honey
- 250 g all-purpose flour (Germany type 405, UK plain flour, USA all-purpose or cake flour)
- 50 g ground almonds
- 50 g ground hazelnuts
- 2 tsp gingerbread spice (preferably homemade lebkuchen spice mix)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper (optional)
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 75 g powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 100 g dark chocolate (for dipping, optional)
Instructions
- Mix the butter and granulated sugar until creamy and smooth. Add the egg and mix thoroughly.
- If the honey is solid, gently warm it until liquid. Add honey, gingerbread spice, black pepper (if using), ground almonds, ground hazelnuts, flour, and baking powder to the butter mixture. Knead until a smooth dough forms.
- Cover the dough with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. Let it rest at room temperature for at least one hour or overnight.
- Preheat your oven to 160°C (320°F). Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
- Portion out small amounts of dough and roll them into balls about the size of a walnut. Arrange on the lined baking sheet, leaving space between each ball.
- Bake for about 15 minutes until firm to the touch. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Mix powdered sugar with lemon juice to create a glaze.
- Once cooled, dip the cookies in the glaze or brush it over the tops. Optionally, dip half in melted dark chocolate or drizzle chocolate over the glazed cookies. Allow to set before serving.
Notes
- Let the dough rest for optimal flavor.
- Ensure cookies are firm to the touch before removing from the oven.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: German
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 124 kcal
- Sugar: 10 g
- Sodium: 50 mg
- Fat: 6 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 17 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 15 mg