If you adore the warm, cozy flavors of the holidays, you are going to fall head over heels for this Pfeffernusse Cookies Recipe. These German spice cookies bring together an irresistible blend of aromatic spices, sweet molasses, and a perfect hint of heat from white pepper that awakens your senses with every bite. Rolled in powdered sugar for a snowy finish, Pfeffernusse cookies are chewy, fragrant, and utterly delightful—making them a cherished holiday staple you’ll want to bake and share again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Pfeffernusse Cookies Recipe lies not only in its rich, spicy flavor but also in how easily you can gather these simple, pantry-friendly ingredients. Every item plays a special role, from the luscious molasses that deepens the sweetness to the carefully balanced spices that create that signature Pfeffernusse kick.
- Molasses (1/2 cup): Adds deep, robust sweetness and a rich color foundation to the dough.
- Honey (1/4 cup): Boosts natural sweetness and keeps the cookies moist and tender.
- Unsalted butter (1/4 cup): Provides richness and helps create a soft texture.
- Large egg (1): Binds the ingredients together, adding structure to the dough.
- All-purpose flour (2 1/4 cups): The base of the dough, ensuring the perfect chewy consistency.
- Granulated sugar (1/2 cup): Sweetens the cookies and balances the spices.
- Baking soda (1/2 teaspoon): Helps the cookies rise gently, creating a tender crumb.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors and contrasts the sweetness.
- Ground cinnamon (1 teaspoon): A warm, classic spice that invites cozy holiday vibes.
- Ground cloves (1/2 teaspoon): Adds depth and a rich spicy note typical of German cookies.
- Ground nutmeg (1/2 teaspoon): Gives subtle sweetness and a nutty warmth.
- Ground allspice (1/2 teaspoon): Brings together multiple spicy notes in a perfect harmony.
- Ground cardamom (1/2 teaspoon): Adds a slightly citrusy, aromatic twist.
- Ground white pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Delivers a gentle heat that makes these cookies truly unique.
- Powdered sugar (for coating): Creates a snowy, sweet finish that’s signature to Pfeffernusse cookies.
How to Make Pfeffernusse Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Molasses Mixture
Start by combining the molasses, honey, and unsalted butter in a small saucepan. Gently heat over low heat, stirring until the butter is fully melted and the mixture is smooth and glossy. This luscious mixture is what gives Pfeffernusse cookies their rich sweetness and moist texture. Once blended, remove from heat and let it cool slightly while you prepare the dry ingredients.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking soda, salt, and all the aromatic spices: cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, allspice, cardamom, and white pepper. This fragrant blend is the soul of the Pfeffernusse Cookies Recipe, filling your kitchen with a cozy holiday aroma and ensuring every bite bursts with flavor.
Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Pour the slightly cooled molasses mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Add the egg, then gently fold everything together until a thick dough forms. This dough will be slightly sticky but firm enough to roll into balls once chilled. The spices will become more pronounced after resting, so be patient for maximum flavor.
Step 4: Chill the Dough
Cover the dough tightly and refrigerate it for at least 2 hours, or ideally overnight. This chilling step is crucial—it firms up the dough, making it easier to handle and allowing the spices to meld beautifully. Trust me, this wait is well worth it for the flavor payoff.
Step 5: Shape and Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F and line baking sheets with parchment paper. Roll the chilled dough into 1-inch balls and place them about 2 inches apart on the sheets to give each room to spread slightly. Bake for 12 to 14 minutes, until the tops are set and the bottoms are just turning a light golden hue. This careful baking time yields the ideal chewy texture with crisp edges.
Step 6: Powdered Sugar Coating
Let the cookies cool for 5 minutes on the baking sheets, then gently roll the warm cookies in powdered sugar. This first coating sticks nicely and adds a delicate sweetness. Once fully cooled, roll the Pfeffernusse cookies again in powdered sugar for a thicker, festive white coating that resembles freshly fallen snow—absolutely charming on any holiday plate.
How to Serve Pfeffernusse Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
Because Pfeffernusse cookies come coated in powdered sugar, they’re already visually stunning and perfectly finished. However, for a special touch, consider sprinkling a tiny pinch of extra cinnamon or cocoa powder on a few cookies just before serving to elevate aroma and taste without overpowering the signature flavor.
Side Dishes
Pair these spiced delights with a warm cup of spiced tea, chai latte, or a cozy mug of hot chocolate. Their spicy sweetness beautifully complements warming beverages, making your snack or dessert time feel extra comforting and festive. They also work wonderfully alongside simple vanilla ice cream for a holiday twist on dessert.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re sharing Pfeffernusse Cookies Recipe treats as gifts or at a gathering, package them in clear cellophane bags tied with rustic twine or seasonal ribbon. For a stunning cookie platter, arrange them around sprigs of fresh rosemary or pine needles to echo the winter holiday spirit. You can also sandwich smaller cookies with a dollop of honey buttercream or cream cheese frosting for an irresistible twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Pfeffernusse cookies keep wonderfully in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. To maintain their soft, chewy texture, add a slice of fresh bread inside the container—the cookies will absorb moisture and stay tender. This makes them perfect for baking in advance for holiday celebrations.
Freezing
You can freeze these cookies either before or after baking. To freeze dough, shape the balls and place them on a tray to freeze individually, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag for up to three months. Baked cookies freeze well in an airtight container, separated by parchment paper, for up to two months—just thaw before serving.
Reheating
To refresh frozen or stored cookies, gently warm them in a low oven (around 300°F) for 5 to 7 minutes, which restores softness and enhances the spices’ aroma. Avoid microwaving, as this can make them mushy. Warming them slightly mimics a freshly baked experience and is especially cozy with a hot drink.
FAQs
What makes Pfeffernusse cookies different from other spice cookies?
Pfeffernusse cookies are unique for their blend of warm spices combined with a touch of white pepper, giving them a subtle heat that sets them apart. The use of molasses and honey also gives a distinctive moistness and depth of flavor compared to traditional spice cookies.
Can I substitute the spices if I don’t have all of them?
While this Pfeffernusse Cookies Recipe shines with its full spice blend, you can simplify by using cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg as a base. However, try to keep white pepper in the mix as it provides that classic gentle kick.
How do I get the perfect chewy texture? Is chilling necessary?
Chilling the dough is key to achieving the chewy texture that Pfeffernusse cookies are known for. It firms up the dough, reduces spreading during baking, and allows flavors to meld. Skipping this step can lead to flatter, crispier cookies.
Why do the cookies have a powdered sugar coating?
The powdered sugar coating is a hallmark of Pfeffernusse cookies. It adds sweetness and a lovely snow-like finish that balances the spice. Rolling the cookies twice in powdered sugar creates a thick, festive glaze that’s both beautiful and delicious.
Can I make these cookies vegan or gluten-free?
You can adapt the recipe by substituting the butter with plant-based margarine and using a flax egg or other egg replacer. For gluten-free, try a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend, but be mindful that texture and rising may be slightly different, so adjustments might be needed.
Final Thoughts
This Pfeffernusse Cookies Recipe is more than just a treat; it’s a heartfelt tradition wrapped in warm spices and sweet powdered sugar that fills your kitchen with festive joy. Whether you’re sharing these bites with loved ones or savoring them quietly with a cup of tea, they truly capture the spirit of the season. I invite you to try this recipe and create your own cherished holiday memories with every delicious, chewy, perfectly spiced cookie.
Print
Pfeffernusse Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 14 minutes
- Total Time: 34 minutes (plus chilling time)
- Yield: 36 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: German
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Pfeffernusse Cookies are traditional German spice cookies that feature a blend of warm spices like cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and cardamom, combined with molasses and honey for rich sweetness. These small, round cookies are coated in powdered sugar, delivering a perfect balance of spice and sweetness that improves in flavor after a day or two, making them a festive favorite for the holiday season.
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup molasses
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 large egg
Dry Ingredients
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
- 1/4 teaspoon ground white pepper
- Powdered sugar for coating
Instructions
- Prepare the Molasses Mixture: In a small saucepan, combine the molasses, honey, and unsalted butter. Heat over low heat, stirring continuously until the butter melts completely and the mixture is smooth. Remove from heat and allow it to cool slightly to prevent cooking the egg in the next step.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, ground nutmeg, ground allspice, ground cardamom, and ground white pepper until evenly mixed to distribute the spices evenly through the dough.
- Make the Dough: Stir the slightly cooled molasses mixture and the large egg into the dry ingredients. Mix thoroughly until a thick, cohesive dough forms. This dough will be sturdy enough to roll into balls.
- Chill the Dough: Cover the dough with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight. Chilling firms the dough, making it easier to handle and helps the flavors develop.
- Preheat and Prepare Baking Sheets: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Shape the Cookies: Roll the chilled dough into 1-inch diameter balls. Place the balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow room for spreading.
- Bake the Cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for 12 to 14 minutes, or until the cookie tops are set and the bottoms turn a light golden color. Baking times can vary slightly based on oven performance.
- Coat with Powdered Sugar: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then roll the warm cookies in powdered sugar for the first coating. After they have completely cooled, roll them in powdered sugar once more to create a thick, snowy coating.
Notes
- For softer cookies, store them in an airtight container with a slice of bread; the moisture from the bread helps keep the cookies soft.
- These cookies develop more complex flavors if allowed to rest for a day or two before serving.
- Pfeffernusse cookies are an ideal homemade gift during the holiday season due to their festive spice and sweet powdered sugar coating.
