Introduction: Easy Pfeffernusse (german Christmas Cookie) Recipe
These traditional German cookies have a slight licorice flavor, but have many other spice-y flavors as well. They are very good for any time of year, but are traditionally served at Christmastime.
Step 1: Ingredients
For this recipe, you will need:
- 2 cups flour
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 tsp. baking soda
- 1 tsp. cinnamon
- pinch of salt
- pinch of white pepper
- pinch of nutmeg
- pinch of allspice
- 1 stick unsalted butter, melted and cooled
- 1/3 cup molasses
- 1 egg
- 2 tsp. anise extract
The ingredients for the glaze can be found on step 6.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
Before you start, preheat the oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit. Then line a large baking sheet with parchment paper, and set it aside. After that, get a large bowl. whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, salt, and spices. (not the anise extract, though)
Step 3: Add Other Ingredients
Now make a well in the center. Add the molasses, egg, butter, and anise extract. Mix until well combined. If you need to, you can use a hand mixer.
Step 4: Form the Cookies
Scoop about 2 tablespoons of dough, though you really don't have to be exact, and roll into a ball. Arrange them on the baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart for spreading.
Step 5: Bake
Bake for 10-12 minutes, until edges are set. Let cool for a few minutes, and then glaze. Tip: make the glaze while the cookies are cooling.
Step 6: Glaze
To make the glaze, you will need:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 fl. oz. water
- 1 capful anise extract
Combine these until glossy, then drop in the cookies one at a time. They should be completely coated. If the glaze level gets too low, you can use a spoon to scoop some glaze on top. Once completely coated, use a spoon to fish them out. If you run out of glaze, which is possible, just follow the recipe (dividing as needed) to make more.
Step 7: Enjoy!
These cookies are super delicious, and don't need to be just for Christmas. They are delicious at any time of the year.