**Pfefferneuse (Peppernuts): A Classic German Christmas Cookie**
Pfefferneuse, also known as Peppernuts, are classic German Christmas cookies that are filled with a medley of aromatic spices, nuts, and candied citrus. These bite-sized treats have a crispy exterior and a soft, chewy interior, and are traditionally enjoyed during the festive season. Our collection of recipes offers a variety of takes on this beloved cookie, ensuring that there's something for every taste. From traditional recipes that use a combination of allspice, cloves, cinnamon, and nutmeg, to variations that incorporate unique ingredients like chocolate, ginger, and honey, our recipes will guide you in creating delicious and memorable Pfefferneuse that will be a hit at your holiday gatherings.
PFEFFERNüSSE (GERMAN "PEPPER-NUT" CHRISTMAS COOKIES)
The name "Pfeffernüsse" translates to pepper-nut, even though these cookies don't contain either. Back in the day, "pepper" was a generic name for any type of spice, and these were were called "nuts" because they looked like nuts! Misleading names aside, I think this is the best Christmas cookie of all time. They're soft and chewy with a thin, crisp icing and the perfect combination of warming winter spices. Pack up a tin and share these delicious cookies with family and friends!
Provided by Chef John
Categories German Cookies
Time P1DT1h50m
Yield 52
Number Of Ingredients 18
Steps:
- Combine white and brown sugars in a saucepan with honey, water, cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, nutmeg, allspice, cloves, and cayenne pepper. Place over medium heat and whisk until the sugars dissolve and it just starts to simmer, 1 to 2 minutes. Immediately remove from the heat and let cool for 4 to 5 minutes.
- Add salt, baking soda, heavy cream, and egg and whisk until thoroughly combined. Add flour and stir together with a wooden spoon until everything comes together as a dough.
- Transfer dough to a piece of plastic wrap. Press into a ball and wrap tightly. Place in the refrigerator and let rest for 1 to 2 days.
- When ready to bake, preheat the oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Remove dough from the refrigerator and scoop into rounded teaspoons. Roll each one into a smooth ball if desired, and place on a prepared baking sheet.
- Bake in the center of the preheated oven until cookies are perfectly dome-shaped with light golden brown bottoms, 9 to 10 minutes; don't overbake. Let cool on the pan all the way down to room temperature, 20 to 30 minutes.
- While the cookies are cooling, repeat Steps 5 and 6 to shape and bake the remaining cookies.
- Make icing by placing powdered sugar in a bowl. Stir in lemon juice, a few teaspoons at a time, until icing is very thick, but still slightly runny.
- Dip the top of each cooled cookie into the icing. Let it drip, then flip it over and place on a wire rack set over a piece of parchment paper and let harden.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 67.7 calories, Carbohydrate 15.6 g, Cholesterol 4.4 mg, Fat 0.4 g, Fiber 0.2 g, Protein 0.8 g, SaturatedFat 0.2 g, Sodium 81.8 mg
GERMAN PEPPERNUTS (PFEFFERNUSSE)
Pfeffernusse are a traditional Christmas spice cookie that's very tiny. The tradition is carried on by Mennonites in the US. This recipe yields almost rock hard little nuggets. My mother remembers her grandmother placing one cookie at a time on a teaspoon, slightly dunking it down into her elegant china cup of tea, and waiting a moment until it softened. I grew up eating them by the handful--no dunking needed. When I was a kid, we would make gallons and they kept until February. They can be attractively bagged to make gifts.
Provided by Kate S.
Categories Dessert
Time 1h15m
Yield 6 dozen
Number Of Ingredients 11
Steps:
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
- Beat sugar with eggs for 15 minutes.
- Sift dry ingredients together, and stir into egg-sugar mixture.
- Mix in butter and honey and knead briefly.
- Roll dough into 1/2-inch-diameter snakes. Cut into 1/2-inch segments with floured paring knife. Arrange 1 inch apart on greased cookie sheet.
- Bake 10-15 minutes.
- Cool and store in airtight container in cool place.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 550.8, Fat 6.2, SaturatedFat 3.1, Cholesterol 72.2, Sodium 172.8, Carbohydrate 116, Fiber 2.2, Sugar 63.5, Protein 9.2
Tips:
- To achieve the best results, make sure to use fresh, high-quality ingredients. Quality ingredients elevate the flavor of the cookies.
- For a more pronounced pepper flavor, use freshly ground black pepper. Freshly ground pepper provides a more intense and aromatic flavor.
- If you prefer a softer cookie, reduce the baking time. Baking time affects the texture of the cookies. Reducing the baking time results in softer cookies.
- Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks, or freeze them for up to 3 months. Proper storage ensures the freshness and flavor of the cookies.
Conclusion:
Pfefferneuse, also known as Peppernuts, are a delightful and unique holiday treat that combines the warmth of spices with a hint of pepper. With their crispy exterior and soft, chewy interior, these cookies are a delectable addition to any holiday gathering. By following the tips provided, you can create perfect Pfefferneuse that will impress your family and friends. Whether you enjoy them fresh from the oven or savor them as a sweet treat throughout the holiday season, these cookies are sure to become a cherished tradition. So gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and embark on a joyful baking journey to create these irresistible Pfefferneuse. Happy holidays and happy baking!
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