9 Incredible Christmas Cookie Recipes From Around the World

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These soft, bite-sized cookies are packed with warming spices and finished with a snowy dusting of powdered sugar. A holiday staple in Germany, Pfeffernüsse have a tender texture and bold, peppery kick that pairs beautifully with mulled wine or hot tea.

Ingredients (makes about 3 dozen):

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 3/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup molasses
• 1 egg
• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground cloves
• 1/2 tsp nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• Powdered sugar, for rolling

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line baking sheets with parchment.
2. Cream butter and sugar, then add molasses and egg.
3. Mix in dry ingredients to form a thick dough.
4. Roll into 1-inch balls, place on sheet, and bake 12–14 minutes.
5. Cool slightly, then roll in powdered sugar.