20+ German Christmas Cookies Pfeffernusse Recipe Savor The Mouthwatering Goodness!

Published on: Mar 31, 2024

German Christmas cookies are a beloved tradition during the holiday season, and one of the most popular and delicious varieties is pfeffernusse. These small, round cookies are packed with warm spices and coated in a sweet glaze, making them the perfect treat to enjoy with a cup of hot cocoa or mulled wine. In this article, we will dive into the history of pfeffernusse and share a traditional recipe for you to try at home. Get ready to fill your home with the delightful aroma of freshly baked German Christmas cookies!

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Pfeffernusse German Christmas Cookies

Main Ingredients: Flour, Granulated Sugar, Brown Sugar, Molasses, Butter

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Pfeffernusse cookies are a beloved holiday treat in Germany, often enjoyed during the Christmas season. These small, spicy cookies are packed with flavor and make the perfect accompaniment to a warm cup of tea or coffee.

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Pfeffernusse (German Spice Cookies)

Main Ingredients: Butter, Dark Brown Sugar, Eggs, Molasses, Baking Soda

Pfeffernüsse Spice Cookies! Traditional German Christmas cookies made ...

If you're looking for a unique and delicious cookie to add to your holiday baking repertoire, look no further than Pfeffernusse cookies. These traditional German spice cookies are sure to become a family favorite.

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German Christmas Cookies

Main Ingredients: Runny Honey, Butter, Plain Flour, Ground Almond, Ground

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German Christmas cookies come in all shapes and sizes, but one thing they all have in common is their festive and delicious flavors. From rich chocolate to warm spices, there's a German Christmas cookie for everyone.

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Zimtsterne – German Christmas Cookies

Main Ingredients: Egg Whites, Powdered Sugar, Ground Almonds, Cinnamon

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Zimtsterne, or cinnamon stars, are a classic German Christmas cookie that are both beautiful and delicious. Made with almonds and a hint of orange, these cookies are sure to impress your friends and family this holiday season.

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German Christmas Cookies

Main Ingredients: Butter, Sugar, Egg Yolk, Hazelnut Flour, Plain Flour

German Christmas cookies are deeply rooted in tradition and are often passed down from generation to generation. Each family may have their own unique twist on a classic recipe, making these cookies even more special.

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German Dominosteine Christmas Cookies

Main Ingredients: Honey, Butter, Sugar, Egg Yolks, Flour, Gingerbread

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Dominosteine, or "domino stones," are a popular German Christmas cookie that consists of three layers: gingerbread, marzipan, and a fruit jelly filling. These cookies are a delicious and festive addition to any holiday cookie platter.

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German Terrassen Kekse Christmas cookies

Main Ingredients: All Purpose Flour, Butter, Granulated Sugar, Egg Yolks

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Terrassen Kekse, or "terrace cookies," are a classic German Christmas treat that resemble colorful terraced houses. These cookies are made with a shortbread dough and topped with colorful icing, making them both delicious and visually appealing.

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German Anise Christmas Cookies

Main Ingredients: Sugar, Flour, Vanilla Sugar, Eggs, Anise

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Anise cookies, also known as Springerle, are a traditional German Christmas cookie that are made with anise seeds and have a distinct anise flavor. These cookies are often stamped with intricate designs, making them a beautiful addition to any holiday cookie platter.

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German Spitzbuben Christmas Cookies

Main Ingredients: Macadamia Nuts, Flour, Powdered Sugar, Salt, Butter

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Spitzbuben, or "little rascals," are a classic German Christmas cookie that consists of two buttery shortbread cookies sandwiched together with a layer of jam. These cookies are simple yet delicious, and can be made with any type of jam or preserve.

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German Flourless Christmas Cookies (Elisenlebkuchen)

Main Ingredients: Almonds, Hazelnuts, Large Eggs, Powdered Sugar, Mace

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Elisenlebkuchen are a traditional flourless German Christmas cookie that are packed with nuts, spices, and candied fruits. These chewy and decadent cookies are a must-try for any fan of German Christmas treats.

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Sugar glazed lebkuchen (German Christmas cookies)

Main Ingredients: All Purpose Flour, Almond Meal, Ground Ginger, Ground

German Gingerbread (Lebkuchen) is a very popular sweet treat during ...

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Lebkuchen are a type of German gingerbread cookie that are often enjoyed during the Christmas season. These soft and chewy cookies are traditionally glazed with a sugar icing and make the perfect holiday treat.

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Pfeffernüsse Cookies

Main Ingredients: Flour, Freshly Ground Pepper, Ground Cinnamon, Ground

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Pfeffernüsse cookies are a fun and festive addition to any holiday cookie platter. These small, round cookies are packed with warm spices and are often enjoyed with a cup of mulled wine or hot cocoa.

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Pfeffernüsse Spice Cookies

Main Ingredients: All Purpose Flour, Salt, Ground Cinnamon, Ground

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These Pfeffernüsse spice cookies are a must-try for any fan of German Christmas treats. Made with a blend of warm spices and coated in powdered sugar, these cookies are sure to become a holiday favorite.

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Traditional Spiced Pfeffernüsse Cookies

Main Ingredients: Butter, Granulated Sugar, Molasses, Large Egg, Anise

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For a traditional take on Pfeffernüsse cookies, try this recipe that uses a blend of spices such as cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg. These cookies are perfect for enjoying with a warm cup of tea or coffee.

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Pfeffernusse Spiced Snowball Cookies

Main Ingredients: Cookies, All Purpose Flour, Baking Powder, Baking Soda

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Add a festive twist to classic snowball cookies by adding a touch of warm spices, like in this Pfeffernusse spiced snowball cookie recipe. These cookies are perfect for any holiday cookie exchange.

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German Lebkuchen Cookies

Main Ingredients: Honey, Molasses, Brown Sugar, Eggs, Lemon Juice, Lemon

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Lebkuchen cookies are a beloved holiday treat in Germany, often enjoyed during the Christmas season. These soft and chewy cookies are packed with warm spices and often have a gingerbread-like texture.

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Dresden Stollen (German Christmas Stollen)

Main Ingredients: All Purpose Flour, Active Dry Yeast, Ground Cardamom

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Dresden Stollen is a traditional German Christmas bread that is often enjoyed as a holiday treat. Made with a rich dough, dried fruits, and warm spices, this bread is perfect for enjoying with a cup of tea or coffee.

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Pfeffernusse Cookies

Main Ingredients: Molasses, Honey, Shortening, Margarine, Eggs, All

Pfeffernusse cookies are a popular holiday treat in Germany, and for good reason. These small, spicy cookies are packed with warm spices and make the perfect addition to any holiday cookie platter.

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German Christmas Stollen

Main Ingredients: Raisins, Oranges, White Rum, All Purpose Flour, Active

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German Christmas stollen is a must-try for anyone looking to add a unique and delicious bread to their holiday menu. Made with a rich dough, dried fruits, and warm spices, this bread is a holiday tradition in Germany.

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Traditional German Stollen for Christmas

Main Ingredients: Raisins, Dark Rum, Flour, Sugar, Butter, Candied Lemon

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For a traditional take on German Christmas stollen, try this recipe that uses a blend of dried fruits and warm spices. This bread is perfect for sharing with friends and family during the holiday season.

The History of Pfeffernusse

Origin and Meaning

Pfeffernusse, which translates to “pepper nut” in German, has its roots in the medieval era. The name comes from the traditional use of pepper in the recipe, which was considered a luxury spice at the time. These cookies were often made and enjoyed during the Advent season leading up to Christmas, and were a symbol of warmth and comfort during the cold winter months.

Evolution of the Recipe

Over the years, the original recipe for pfeffernusse has evolved and adapted to different regions and tastes. While the basic ingredients remain the same, variations may include different types of nuts, spices, or even the addition of chocolate. In some areas of Germany, pfeffernusse is also known as “Nußringe” or “Lömmelchen”, showcasing the diversity and creativity of this beloved cookie.

A Christmas Tradition

Today, pfeffernusse is still a popular treat during the holiday season in Germany and many other parts of the world. It is often enjoyed as part of the traditional Christmas markets, where vendors sell homemade cookies and other festive goodies. Families also gather to bake pfeffernusse together, passing down the recipe from generation to generation and creating cherished memories.

The Recipe for Pfeffernusse

Now that you know a bit about the history and significance of pfeffernusse, it’s time to try making them at home! This traditional recipe yields around 40 cookies, perfect for sharing with loved ones or enjoying throughout the holiday season.

Ingredients:

2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup ground almonds
1/2 cup ground hazelnuts
1 tsp baking powder
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1 tsp ground cloves
1 tsp ground ginger
1 tsp ground cardamom
1/2 tsp ground black pepper
1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
3/4 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup honey
1 egg
1/4 cup milk
1 cup powdered sugar
2 tbsp milk

Instructions:

In a medium bowl, mix together the flour, ground almonds, ground hazelnuts, baking powder, cinnamon, cloves, ginger, cardamom, black pepper, nutmeg, and salt.
In a separate large bowl, cream together the butter, brown sugar, and honey until light and fluffy.
Add in the egg and milk, mixing until well combined.
Gradually add in the dry ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
Cover the dough and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Roll the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake for 12-15 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden.
While the cookies are cooling, mix together the powdered sugar and milk to create the glaze.
Dip the cooled cookies into the glaze, then place them back on the baking sheet to set.
Enjoy your delicious homemade pfeffernusse!

With its rich history and delicious flavors, pfeffernusse is a must-try for anyone looking to add a touch of German tradition to their holiday celebrations. Whether you’re baking them for yourself or sharing them with loved ones, these cookies are sure to bring warmth and joy to your holiday season.