Name: German Pfeffernusse Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Yield: 200 Cookies
Cuisine: Other

Real Life of Lulu Verified

January 23, 2026

Pfeffernüsse are a classic German Christmas cookie with warm spices, honey, and a hint of anise. This church cookbook version bakes up crisp, then softens into a cozy, flavorful bite. They’re the kind of cookies that make the holidays feel complete.

From the Cook

1/6

German Pfeffernusse Cookies

Real Life of Lulu Verified

Ingredients

WarningMilk and 4 other allergens identified

Instructions

This recipe also lives on Real Life of Lulu.Show them some love by checking it out! 😊

Check out original post! 😊

Original PostView

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350℉.

Line cookie sheets with parchment paper and set aside.

Mix the honey, Crisco, sugar, coffee, eggs, and anise extract in a large mixing bowl with an electric mixer.

Stir together the baking soda, cloves, cinnamon, nutmeg, half of the flour.

Knead the dough and gradually add the rest of the flour. Knead until it is the right consistency for shaping into balls.

Roll into balls that are 3/4 inch in diameter.

Place on them onto the prepared cookie sheet.

Bake at 350℉ for 12 minutes.

Cool on wire rack.

Once completely cooled, roll the cookies in powdered sugar.

Smart Nutrition

My Calorie Intake

0
Review & Earn

Be the first to review this recipe and earn a 20% Bonus

Level up & unlock free Premium by reviewing recipes!

My Notes

Your kitchen notebook is waiting.

Whether it's a recipe tweak or an inspiration burst — jot it down here.

Tips & Tricks (5)

Spice Bloom Technique 🌶️
Toast your ground spices (nutmeg, cinnamon, cloves) in a dry pan for 30-60 seconds before mixing to intensify their aromatic oils and deepen the cookie's flavor profile.
Honey Moisture Magic 🍯
Warm the honey slightly before adding to the dough to help it incorporate more evenly and prevent dry, crumbly cookie texture.
Anise Extract Balance 💧
Use high-quality anise extract and add it gradually, tasting as you go to achieve the perfect subtle licorice note without overwhelming the other spices.
Powdered Sugar Coating Trick 🍬
Roll warm cookies in powdered sugar while they're still slightly hot to create a beautiful, even, and slightly crackled coating that looks professionally finished.
Aging for Authenticity 🕰️
Store Pfeffernusse cookies in an airtight container for 3-5 days before serving to allow the spices to meld and the texture to soften into traditional German-style perfection.