Pfeffernüsse
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Pfeffernüsse (also spelled pfefferneuse or pfeffernuesse in English, in Danish: pebernødder (plural)) are small, hard, round cookies. The name translates to pepper nuts in both German and Danish, describing the cookie's spicy taste as well as the fact that many recipes actually call for a small amount of black pepper to be used.
Pfeffernüsse are traditionally made during the holiday season. Recipes often call for the cookie to be rounded into a ball and covered with powdered sugar or a white sugar glaze, giving it its signature white color.
Like most baked goods, there are multiple variations of pfeffernüsse. While most recipes call for cloves and cinnamon, some also use nutmeg or anise. A Danish recipe for pebernødder requires the use of white pepper, while most international recipes call for black pepper. Some versions of pfeffernüsse contain pecans, ginger, or cardamom.
