Pfeffernüsse

Pfeffernüsse are small, spiced cookies traditionally enjoyed during the holidays by Germans and ethnic Mennonites in North America, with similar treats also found in Denmark and the Netherlands. Known as Pfeffernüsse in German, pepernoten in Dutch, päpanät in Plautdietsch, pfeffernusse or peppernuts in English, and pebernødder in Danish, their name translates to "peppernuts." This doesn’t mean they contain nuts; rather, they are about the size of nuts and get their name from the pinch of black pepper in the dough.

The exact origins of Pfeffernüsse are unclear, but they have been a beloved holiday treat in Germany and neighboring regions for centuries. The German state of Hesse has served Pfeffernüsse at official state receptions. Recipes vary, but all include aromatic spices such as cardamom, nutmeg, cinnamon, cloves, ginger, black pepper, mace, and anise. Sweeteners like molasses, sugar, and honey are used, and the dough typically contains butter, shortening, or margarine, eggs, and flour. Some versions are dusted with powdered sugar, though this is not traditional.

In northern Germany, Pfeffernüsse are hemispherical, up to two centimeters in diameter, and firm. The northern Moppen variant is larger and softer, made from a gingerbread-like dough and topped with an icing glaze. Southern German recipes include candied lemon or orange peel, orange and lemon zest, and often almonds. In Saxony, the cookies are about three centimeters, uncoated, and angular. Some German Mennonite family recipes replace traditional spices with peppermint extract, yielding a soft, minty cookie coated in powdered sugar; the origin of this variation is unknown.

In the Netherlands, kruidnoten are small, brown, round cookies, while pepernoten are chewy, lighter in color, and angular. Though distinct, some Dutch people mistakenly call kruidnoten pepernoten, and online stores often list them together. Both are holiday-exclusive snacks sold around Sinterklaas time.