About the Recipe
As I step into the kitchen, the air fills with the cozy smell of holiday spices – it’s Pfeffernüsse time. These little German spice cookies weren’t a part of my childhood traditions, but I do remember having them as treats here and there. Now, they’ve become a favorite in my family, and the kids get such a kick out of saying the name. I hope these cookies become one of those special things they’ll remember about festive gatherings and chilly winter evenings.
The recipe feels like the kind that could’ve been passed down for generations. It’s simple but packed with flavor – molasses, honey, and a blend of warm spices that come together perfectly. The dough is a breeze to make, and letting it chill overnight deepens those flavors even more. Honestly, it’s great to have a make-ahead recipe during the busy holiday season.
Rolling the dough into little balls is one of my favorite parts – yes, it’s sticky, but there’s something fun about getting your hands a little messy. And when the cookies are baking, the whole house smells incredible. That first bite always reminds me why I love these so much. The final dusting of powdered sugar makes them look like they’ve been plucked straight out of a snowy winter scene.
Pfeffernüsse aren’t just cookies to me – they’re little bites of warmth and nostalgia. They connect the past with the present and make the holidays feel extra special. So, if you’re ready to fill your home with cozy aromas and your heart with holiday cheer, grab some molasses and let’s make some memories together.
Warm, Festive Flavor: The aromatic spices in Pfeffernüsse create a cozy, holiday feel that’s perfect for winter gatherings and festive treats.
Perfect for Holiday Gifting: With their powdered sugar coating and unique flavor, these cookies make a thoughtful and traditional holiday gift.
Delightfully Chewy Texture: As Pfeffernüsse cookies rest, they develop a chewy texture that’s wonderfully satisfying and makes each bite even more enjoyable.
Easy Make-Ahead Cookies: Pfeffernüsse actually improve over time, making them an ideal choice for holiday baking in advance.
Unique and Traditional: These cookies offer a unique, traditional taste that stands out from standard holiday cookies, adding a touch of European holiday tradition to your baking.
Naturally Long-Lasting: Pfeffernüsse keep well for days, allowing you to enjoy their rich flavor throughout the holiday season without worrying about freshness.
What You'll Love
What are Pfeffernüsse? Pfeffernüsse are traditional German spice cookies known for their warm, aromatic blend of spices and slightly chewy texture. They're often coated in powdered sugar for a festive look.
What spices are in Pfeffernüsse? Pfeffernüsse feature a mix of spices like cinnamon, cloves, ginger, nutmeg, and black pepper, giving them a unique, slightly peppery flavor that’s perfect for the holiday season.
How do I store Pfeffernüsse cookies? Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. The flavors actually improve as they sit, making them a great make-ahead option for the holidays.
Can I make Pfeffernüsse gluten-free? Yes, simply replace the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to make this recipe gluten-free while maintaining its chewy texture.
Why are Pfeffernüsse cookies sometimes hard? Pfeffernüsse can have a firm texture when first baked, but they soften over time as they sit in an airtight container. This allows the spices to deepen and the cookies to develop their signature chewiness.
Frequently asked Questions
Ingredients
For the Cookies:
2 cups all-purpose flour (240 g)
1/2 teaspoon baking soda (2 g)
1/4 teaspoon ground white pepper (0.5 g)
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper (0.5 g)
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (0.5 g)
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves (0.5 g)
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (0.5 g)
1/4 teaspoon ground allspice (0.5 g)
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (113 g)
1/2 cup molasses (120 g)
1/4 cup honey (85 g)
1/4 cup powdered sugar (30 g)
1 large egg (50 g)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (5 g)
For the Glaze:
2 cups powdered sugar (240 g)
2 tablespoons water (30 g)
Preparation
I love making traditional recipes. Even though these were not a staple in our Christmas cookie box when I was growing up, they certainly are now. One of the best cookies (in my opinion) to serve along side a cup of tea.
Just the right amount of sweet and spice to warm up your soul on a cold winters day. If you would like to know more about Pfeffernüsse, go check out my blog.
But for now, let's get baking!
Step-by-Step Instructions on how to make Pfeffernüsse:
In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, white pepper, black pepper, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and allspice. Set aside.
In another bowl, beat the butter, molasses, honey, powdered sugar, egg, and vanilla extract together until well combined.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms. (The dough should be slightly sticky to the touch, it will firm up when chilled. However, if you are finding that the dough is too sticky and hard to handle- add a little bit more flour).
Cover the dough and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or overnight, this allows the flavors to mingle and develop).
Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
Liberally flour your work surface. Shape the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheets. (I like to roll my dough out into long snakes and then cut it into even sections which I then roll into balls).
Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the cookies are set.
Let the cookies cool, then dip them in the powdered sugar glaze. (I like to dip, let the glaze set and give them another dunking for a double glaze and to get the glaze to really look white).
Enjoy!
Tip: this dough can also be rolled out and used with cookie cutters. It is easier to work with when chilled, so if the dough starts to warm up too much and sticks to everything, simply pop it back into the refrigerator for 20 mins. and keep going.
