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German Christmas recipesPfeffernüsse
The name "pepper nut" derives from the shape and ingredients used in these cookies. Oriental spices - traditionally all referenced under the term "Pfeffer" due to their pungent nature - and the nut shape form are the hallmark of these German Christmas cookies.Ingredients
| 4 cups flour 1/2 cup sugar 1 1/4 tsp. baking soda 1 1/2 tsp. cinnamon 1/2 tsp. cloves 1/2 tsp. nutmeg 1 tsp. freshly ground pepper (optional) 3/4 cup light molasses 1/2 (1 stick) butter 2 eggs, beaten 1 cup walnuts or almonds, finely chopped or ground (optional) powdered sugar |
Preparation
| Combine all dry ingredients in a bowl. Heat molasses and butter in
a small saucepan and stir until butter has melted. Cool to room temperature
and stir in beaten eggs. Add dry ingredients and nuts to mixture and
mix well. Cover and chill dough overnight. To bake, shape chilled dough into 1-inch balls and place 1 inch apart on greased cookie sheet. Bake at 350° for 12 to 14 minutes. Let cool on a wire rack. Roll in powdered sugar while still warm. Makes about 5 dozen. Based on a recipe from Better Homes and Gardens New Cookbook. |
Pfeffernüsse the easy way - Browse or buy
 Schuhmann Pfeffernüsse Chocolate coated. Six 10.6-oz. packages. Qualifies for free shipping. More info - Buy |
 Book: Field Guide to Cookies More than 100 recipes for cookies including Pfeffernüsse, Lebkuchen, Kipferl and Springerle. More info - Buy |
