Pfefferkuchen
German Pepper Cakes
Authentic German Pfefferkuchen, also known as pepper cakes, are a traditional spiced gingerbread cookie, especially popular during the Christmas season. They are known for their distinct spicy kick, often more pronounced than other gingerbread varieties.
🧂 Ingredients
- 300 g Honey(Warming the honey makes it easier to incorporate.)
- 500 g All-purpose flour(You may need slightly more or less depending on humidity.)
- 1.5 tbsp Ground black pepper(Freshly ground is best for flavor. This is a key ingredient for the 'pepper' in Pfefferkuchen.)
- 1 tbsp Ground ginger
- 0.5 tbsp Ground cinnamon
- 0.5 tsp Ground cloves(Optional, but adds depth.)
- 2 large Eggs(Room temperature eggs incorporate better.)
- for decoration Powdered sugar(For a simple glaze or dusting.)
- 1-2 tbsp Water(To make the glaze, if using.)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Gently heat the honey in a saucepan over low heat until it is warm and fluid, but not boiling. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat. Stir in the ground black pepper, ginger, cinnamon, and cloves (if using). Let the spice mixture steep in the warm honey for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
⏱️ 15 minutes - 2
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour. Make a well in the center and pour in the warm honey-spice mixture. Add the eggs. Using a wooden spoon or your hands, mix everything together until a cohesive dough forms. It will be sticky. Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight (or for at least 8 hours). This resting period allows the flour to hydrate and the flavors to deepen.
⏱️ overnight - 3
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Line baking sheets with parchment paper. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about 0.5 cm (1/4 inch) thickness. Use cookie cutters to create your desired shapes (traditional Christmas motifs are popular). Carefully transfer the cut-out cookies to the prepared baking sheets, leaving a small space between them.
⏱️ 20 minutes - 4
Bake the Pfefferkuchen for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown and the cookies are firm to the touch. Baking time will vary depending on the size and thickness of your cookies. Let them cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, you can decorate them with a simple icing made from powdered sugar and a tablespoon or two of water, or simply dust them with powdered sugar.
⏱️ 15 minutes
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓This recipe is based on Saxon traditions, known for its robust spice profile.
- ✓Pfefferkuchen are intentionally spicier than many other types of gingerbread, with black pepper being a defining ingredient.
- ✓Cut out traditional Christmas shapes like stars, trees, or gingerbread men.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- For an even spicier kick, increase the amount of black pepper slightly.
- Experiment with different cookie cutter shapes and sizes.