Southern Spiced Cookies

Ingredients

In this adaptation, the traditional Dutch Pepernoot is transformed into Southern Spiced Cookies by incorporating the flavors and ingredients commonly found in Southern American cuisine. The addition of warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice, along with a touch of cayenne pepper, gives these cookies a distinct Southern twist. The texture of the cookies remains similar to the original, with a crispy exterior and a soft, chewy center. We alse have the original recipe for Pepernoot, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 1 large egg 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup (60ml) buttermilk 1/4 cup (60ml) buttermilk

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 80 kcal / 335 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 3g, 2g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 12g, 7g
• Protein: 1g
• Fiber: 0g
• Salt: 0.1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. 2.
   In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and cayenne pepper.
3. 3.
   In a separate large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. 4.
   Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter mixture and mix until well combined.
5. 5.
   Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
6. 6.
   Roll the dough into small balls, approximately 1 inch in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each cookie.
7. 7.
   Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
8. 8.
   Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Butter — Make sure the butter is softened at room temperature for easier creaming with the sugar.
• Buttermilk — If you don't have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to 1 cup of milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes before using.

Tips & Tricks

• For a milder spiciness, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper or omit it altogether.
• Add a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top of the cookies for an extra touch of sweetness.
• Store the cookies in an airtight container to maintain their freshness.

Serving advice

Serve these Southern Spiced Cookies as a delightful treat with a cup of hot coffee or tea. They are perfect for sharing with friends and family during gatherings or as a sweet snack any time of the day.

Presentation advice

Arrange the cookies on a decorative platter or in a cookie jar to showcase their inviting appearance. Dust them with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar for an elegant touch.