Pfeffernüsse Spiced Cookie Recipe

If you’ve been hunting for a cozy, warmly spiced holiday treat, then I’m so excited to share my Pfeffernüsse Spiced Cookie Recipe with you. These little German gems have this magical way of warming up your kitchen and your heart all at once. I absolutely love how these cookies come out with just the right balance of spice, chewiness, and that delicate dusting of confectioners’ sugar that makes every bite melt in your mouth. Keep reading because this recipe is fan-freaking-tastic and pretty straightforward once you get the hang of it!

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Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Pfeffernüsse Spiced Cookie Recipe has a role in creating that comforting, nostalgic flavor we all crave this season. From spices to molasses, everything combines beautifully for that true-to-tradition taste. When shopping, try to use fresh spices and real molasses for the best depth of flavor.

• All-purpose flour: The foundation of the dough, giving it structure and the perfect cookie texture.
• Ground cinnamon: Adds warm spice notes that balance the peppery kick.
• Ground allspice: This versatile spice deepens the flavor complexity.
• Freshly ground nutmeg: Freshly ground is a game changer – it’s far more aromatic!
• Freshly ground black pepper: The little secret that sets Pfeffernüsse apart by adding a subtle warmth.
• Ground cloves: Adds a slightly sweet and pungent aroma to build the signature spiced profile.
• Baking soda: Helps the cookies rise just right while keeping them chewy.
• Salt: Enhances all the other flavors without being noticeable.
• Unsalted butter (room temperature): Makes the dough rich and smooth.
• Light brown sugar: Gives a caramel-y sweetness that molasses alone can’t provide.
• Unsulfured molasses: The heart of the recipe – it adds moisture, deep color, and that signature robust flavor.
• Large egg: Binds everything together for a tender crumb.
• Anise extract (or vanilla): Brings a sweet, licorice-like note that pairs beautifully with all the spices.
• Confectioners’ sugar: For coating — gives a snowy, festive finish and a touch of extra sweetness with every bite.

Variations

One of the joys of the Pfeffernüsse Spiced Cookie Recipe is how adaptable it is. Over the years, I’ve tweaked it a bit based on what’s in my pantry or which flavors my family loves most. Don’t hesitate to experiment to make these your own.

• Anise or Vanilla: I usually go with anise extract for that authentic flavor, but switching to vanilla is perfect if you prefer a milder spice profile.
• Spice Mix Adjustments: Sometimes I add a pinch of cardamom for an extra layer of warmth — it’s amazing!
• Brown Sugar Swap: Using dark brown sugar instead of light can add even more richness to the dough.
• Gluten-Free: I’ve experimented using a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend with decent results, but the texture changes a bit, becoming a little cakier.

How to Make Pfeffernüsse Spiced Cookie Recipe

Step 1: Mix Your Dry Spices and Flour

Start by whisking together your all-purpose flour, ground cinnamon, allspice, freshly ground nutmeg, black pepper, ground cloves, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl. This step is key because it evenly distributes those fragrant spices throughout your dough. I like to use freshly ground spices here—it really elevates the flavor far beyond pre-ground versions.

Step 2: Cream Butter, Sugar, and Molasses

In your stand mixer (or with a hand mixer), beat the softened unsalted butter, light brown sugar, and unsulfured molasses on medium speed until the mixture is fluffy—this usually takes about 3 minutes. This fluffiness traps air, giving your cookies a lovely soft texture. Once this looks creamy, beat in the egg and anise extract until everything is well combined. I prefer using anise here, but vanilla works great if you’re new to these spices.

Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Next, turn your mixer to low and slowly add the flour and spice mixture to your wet ingredients. Mix just until everything comes together — overmixing can make your cookies tough. At this point, your dough will feel a bit sticky, but that’s totally normal!

Step 4: Chill the Dough

Wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours. This rest period is crucial because the flavors deepen, and chilled dough is easier to handle when rolling cookie balls. I usually make the dough the night before, which saves time on baking day.

Step 5: Shape and Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Using about a tablespoon of dough for each cookie, roll them into roughly 1 1/2-inch balls. Space them about 2 inches apart on the baking sheets because they spread slightly. Bake until the cookies are golden around the edges and firm to the touch, about 15 minutes. They’ll have a slight crackle on top when perfect.

Step 6: Roll in Confectioners’ Sugar and Cool

When the cookies are still warm (but cool enough to handle), roll them in confectioners’ sugar. This gives them that classic “snowy” coating and enhances their sweetness. Let them cool completely on a wire rack before storing or serving. This step is one I’ve learned not to skip for that authentic Pfeffernüsse look and taste!

How to Serve Pfeffernüsse Spiced Cookie Recipe

Garnishes

I tend to keep it traditional and simple by rolling warm cookies in confectioners’ sugar—it’s classic, festive, and adds just the right hint of sweetness. If you want to get fancy, a light drizzle of white chocolate or a sprinkle of finely chopped candied orange peel can add a fun twist.

Side Dishes

These cookies pair beautifully with a hot cup of mulled wine, spiced apple cider, or even a bold cup of coffee. At holiday parties, I like to serve them alongside a cheese board with nuts and dried fruits—the contrast of savory-to-sweet is simply delightful.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive touch, arrange your Pfeffernüsse neatly on a holiday platter lined with evergreen sprigs or sprinkle extra powdered sugar as “snow” over the display. Wrapped in cello bags tied with red ribbon, they also make excellent edible gifts that your friends and family will rave about.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftover Pfeffernüsse in an airtight container at room temperature. They actually taste better after a day or two as the spices continue to meld. Just keep them away from direct sunlight and moisture to maintain that perfect chewy texture.

Freezing

If you want to make a big batch ahead of time, Pfeffernüsse dough freezes well. I wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before freezing. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as usual. Baked cookies also freeze nicely — just thaw at room temp and re-coat with powdered sugar if needed.

Reheating

To refresh your cookies, pop them in a 300°F oven for 5-7 minutes or microwave briefly for 10-15 seconds. This brings back that soft, chewy texture and helps the flavors bloom without drying them out.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

I still remember the first time I tried Pfeffernüsse cookies—they instantly became my go-to for holiday baking and a family favorite. This Pfeffernüsse Spiced Cookie Recipe is special because it captures so much warmth and tradition in just one bite. I love that it’s easy enough to make year after year, yet it never fails to impress. So go ahead and make a batch, roll them generously in confectioners’ sugar, and watch your cookie jar become the centerpiece of festive cheer. Trust me, you’ll want to keep these biscuits around long after the holiday season!

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