I was always one of those kids that would pick the most decadent sweet over a simpler one. Mud cake over sponge. Triple chocolate fudge cookies rather than plain biscuits. But when it came to the pfeffernusse cookies we always had at home, I generally didn’t jump for them if chocolate chip cookies were an option. But now I’m older and wiser and my appreciation for them has grown as I have. The intensity of the spiced flavour and the soft cakey texture beneath a crisp surface is a beautiful combination.
Pfeffernusse (‘pepper nuts’ in German) is a German holiday treat, often baked around Christmas. It’s not Christmas, I know, but lets just pretend.
So in ‘not’ keeping with tradition I thought I would make a vegan version. These are adapted from allrecipes.com.
Once you remove them from the oven, let them sit for a couple of minutes and then remove to a wire rack to cool.
While they are still warm, dust with icing sugar.
I cooked my cookies for about 2 minutes longer than I should have, so make sure you keep an eye on them. Traditionally, pferffernusse cookies are not as flat as mine. If you want yours to be ‘puffier’ then take them out of the oven a few minutes earlier.
I’m betting my husband will love these. I always go for the decadent sweets and he’s the exact opposite, although I am starting to appreciate the simpler things more now that I’m older. I love all the spices in these, and that you used spelt flour. These look like the perfect cookies for us, I’m going to try them for sure
Hi Heidi! My partner loved these cookies too. The spices really do make them delicious. I hope you both enjoy them
mmmm these would be so up my street! I have yet to make pfeffernusse but have wanted to for god knows how long. Yours look absolutely perfect and such pretty little photos!
Hi Sasha,
Thanks for the lovely comment. I had been thinking of making pfeffernusse for ages and finally decided it was time! They are a delicious morning tea snack
beautiful pics! esp love the overhead shot of the fresh from the oven cookies all lined up on the cooling rack!
Thanks!!! Mmm cookies fresh from the oven always look appealing to me
These look devine! And I’m the same as you, my sweet cravings have changed to appreciate the fine nuances of flavour and texture. Yum yum yum
such a great recipe, love the spiciness and chewiness!