Description
These classic German Pfeffernusse cookies are aromatic, bite-sized spice balls featuring a signature hint of white pepper and a sweet snowy glaze. They are a wonderful holiday tradition that actually improves with age, making them a perfect make-ahead treat for gifting or sharing.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup almond meal
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons Lebkuchengewürz (German spice blend)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground white pepper
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup molasses
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons hot water
Instructions
- In a small bowl, whisk together the flour, almond meal, baking soda, salt, Lebkuchengewürz, and ground white pepper until evenly distributed.
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the brown sugar, honey, molasses, butter, and heavy cream, stirring frequently until the butter melts and the mixture is smooth.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and allow the liquid to cool for approximately five minutes.
- Stir the dry flour mixture directly into the warm honey liquid in the saucepan until fully incorporated, then stir in the egg.
- Wrap the glossy, sticky dough tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight to let the flavors meld and the dough firm up.
- When ready to bake, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roll the chilled dough into long strands about 3/4 inch thick, slice into small rounds, and roll each piece into a ball.
- Place on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15 minutes until golden brown and firm to the touch.
- Whisk together powdered sugar and hot water for the glaze; dip the warm cookies into the glaze and let them set on a wire rack until the coating is crisp.
Notes
To ensure your cookies have the most authentic texture, allow them to rest in an airtight container for at least 24 hours after glazing, which helps the spicy aromas deepen and the center soften. If the dough becomes too sticky to handle while rolling into balls, simply chill it in the freezer for a few minutes to restore its workable consistency.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 15 mins
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: German