Traditional Spiced Pfeffernüsse Cookies are a delightful treat that bring warmth and nostalgia to every bite. These aromatic cookies are packed with a blend of spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, creating a cozy, festive flavor. With a soft, chewy center and a slightly crisp exterior, they offer the perfect texture contrast. Ready in just over 30 minutes, they’re an easy yet impressive addition to your holiday baking.

Each cookie is dusted with a light layer of powdered sugar, adding a touch of sweetness and a melt-in-your-mouth finish. The rich, spiced aroma fills your kitchen as they bake, making the experience as enjoyable as the result. Whether shared with loved ones or savored with a cup of tea, these cookies are sure to become a cherished tradition.

Ingredients for Traditional Spiced Pfeffernüsse Cookies

½ cup (4fl oz/115ml) butter, melted (unsalted preferred)
½ cup (4oz/115g) granulated sugar
⅓ cup (4oz/115g) molasses (substitute with honey or dark corn syrup if needed)
1 large egg, room temperature
1 teaspoon anise extract (optional, but adds authentic flavor)
2 cups (10oz/284g) all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon ground black pepper (adds a unique kick)
½ teaspoon nutmeg
½ teaspoon ground ginger
½ teaspoon ground allspice
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon ground cloves
¼ teaspoon ground cardamom
1 cup (4oz/115g) powdered sugar, sifted (for coating)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper and set aside.
In a mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, granulated sugar, molasses, egg, and anise extract using an electric mixer until smooth.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, black pepper, nutmeg, ginger, allspice, salt, cloves, and cardamom.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined. The dough will be thick and slightly sticky.
Scoop the dough into 1 ½ tablespoon-sized portions, roll into balls, and place them on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set and the tops are slightly cracked. Avoid overbaking for a soft texture.
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet until warm to the touch.
Roll the warm cookies in the sifted powdered sugar until fully coated. For a thicker coating, dip them twice.
Let the cookies cool completely on a wire rack before storing in an airtight container. They can be kept at room temperature for up to five days.

Perfect Pairings: Serving Suggestions

These spiced Pfeffernüsse cookies are a holiday classic, and they pair wonderfully with a warm cup of spiced chai tea or mulled wine. For a festive touch, serve them alongside a plate of gingerbread cookies or chocolate truffles. They also make a delightful addition to a holiday cookie platter!

Storage Secrets: Keeping Them Fresh

Store your Pfeffernüsse cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to two months. Just make sure to place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. Thaw at room temperature before serving, and give them a quick roll in powdered sugar for a fresh look.

Time-Saving Tips for Busy Bakers

To save time, prepare the dough the night before and refrigerate it in a covered bowl. When you’re ready to bake, simply scoop and roll the dough into balls. You can also use a small cookie scoop to ensure uniform size and speed up the process. If you’re doubling the recipe, bake two sheets at a time, rotating them halfway through for even baking.

Recipe Variations: Mix It Up

Feel free to experiment with the spices! Swap out the anise extract for almond extract or add a pinch of orange zest for a citrusy twist. For a nutty flavor, mix in finely chopped almonds or hazelnuts into the dough. If you prefer a softer texture, reduce the baking time by 1-2 minutes.

Equipment Guidance: Tools You’ll Need

For this recipe, you’ll need a stand mixer or hand mixer to combine the ingredients smoothly. A small cookie scoop or tablespoon measure will help portion the dough evenly. Don’t forget parchment paper for easy cleanup and a fine-mesh sieve for sifting the powdered sugar for that perfect coating.