Experience the Danish tradition of coziness and warmth this holiday season with a delightful Christmas baking recipe straight from the heart of Denmark. Create memories in the kitchen and fill your home with the spicy-sweet scent of Pebernødder – Pepper Nuts Cookies. These small, crunchy treats are perfect for snacking by the fire or gifting to loved ones, embodying the spirit of togetherness and comfort that the holiday season brings.
**Pebernødder – Pepper Nuts Cookies**
**Ingredients:**
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup dark brown sugar
– 1 large egg
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, cinnamon, cloves, allspice, cardamom, ginger, and black pepper. Set aside.
3. In a separate large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and dark brown sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add the egg to the butter-sugar mixture and beat until well combined.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a smooth dough forms. The dough should be firm but not sticky.
6. Roll the dough into small balls, about 1-inch in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure to space them about 1 inch apart to allow for spreading.
7. Using the back of a fork or a cookie stamp, gently press down on each dough ball to create a decorative pattern on top.
8. Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown. Be careful not to overbake them.
9. Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Store the Pebernødder – Pepper Nuts Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. They also make wonderful gifts when packaged in festive bags or boxes tied with ribbon.
These charming little Pepper Nuts Cookies are a delightful addition to any holiday gathering, a perfect accompaniment to a cup of hot cocoa or mulled wine. Embrace the Danish tradition of coziness and warmth with every bite of these spiced treats. Enjoy the simple pleasures of the season as you share these homemade cookies with family and friends, spreading joy and cheer one delicious bite at a time. Happy baking!
