Pfeffernüsse Cookies: A Delightful German Holiday Treat

The holidays are a time for family, friends, and of course, delicious treats. If you’re looking to add a touch of international flavor to your cookie platter this year, look no further than Pfeffernüsse cookies. These spiced German cookies have been a holiday staple for generations, and once you taste them, you’ll understand why.

What are Pfeffernüsse Cookies?

Pfeffernüsse, which translates to “pepper nuts” in German, are small, round cookies packed with warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger. Despite their name, these cookies don’t actually contain any nuts. The term “nüsse” refers to their small, nut-like shape.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/2 tsp ground cloves
• 1/4 tsp ground ginger
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 cup molasses
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Powdered sugar for coating

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and spices.
3. In a separate bowl, cream the butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg, molasses, and vanilla.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until combined.
5. Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cookies are firm to the touch.
7. Allow the cookies to cool slightly, then roll them in powdered sugar while they’re still warm.

Icing Coating for Pfeffernüsse Cookies

This traditional icing gives Pfeffernüsse cookies their signature glossy, sweet coating. It’s easy to make and hardens beautifully for that perfect crackle finish.

Ingredients

• 2 cups (240g) powdered sugar
• 3–4 tablespoons milk or water
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the icing:
   • Sift the powdered sugar into a medium bowl to remove any lumps.
   • Add 3 tablespoons of milk or water and whisk until smooth.
2. Check the consistency:
   • The icing should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon but still flow easily. If it’s too thick, add more milk or water, one teaspoon at a time, until the desired consistency is reached.
3. Coat the cookies:
   • Once the Pfeffernüsse cookies have cooled completely, dip the top of each cookie into the icing.
   • Lift the cookie and gently shake off any excess icing.
4. Let the icing set:
   • Place the cookie’s icing side up on a wire rack with parchment paper underneath to catch drips.
   • Allow the icing to harden completely at room temperature, which may take 1–2 hours.

Optional Variation

For a spiced twist, add 1/4 teaspoon of ground cinnamon or ginger to the icing.

Enjoy your beautifully coated Pfeffernüsse cookies! 😊

Tips and Variations:

• For even stronger flavors, make the cookie dough a day ahead and let it rest in the fridge overnight.
• Store the cookies in an airtight container for up to a week to maintain their freshness.
• For a chocolate twist, try drizzling the cookies with melted dark chocolate or adding a tablespoon of cocoa powder to the dough.

Pfeffernüsse cookies are a delightful addition to any holiday cookie tray. Their warm spices and soft, chewy texture make them irresistible, and their snowy powdered sugar coating adds a festive touch. Whether you’re enjoying them with a cup of tea or gifting them to loved ones, these German spice cookies are sure to become a new holiday favorite.

Christmas desserts and treats you might be interested in…

• Traditional Figgy Pudding: A Classic Christmas Dessert
• Festive Christmas Charcuterie Board Dessert Ideas

Pfeffernüsse Cookies Recipe Card

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