Heritage food: Peffer Nusse (the North Dakota way) also known as Pfefferneuse or Pepper Nuts

 

These cookies are soft and at least larger than a walnut as opposed to the Kansas version which is hard and small like a peanut. They are preferably made after Thanksgiving and placed in a container stored in a cold garage until needed so the flavors can bloom or increase more.  I'll always remember the time I got to make these with my sisters after a very big life change!  Without further adieu...

Ingredients

1/4 c butter
1 c sugar
3/4 c honey
1/2 tsp pepper
1/4 tsp cinnamon
1/4 tsp nutmeg
1/4 tsp cloves
2 eggs
1/4 tsp anise
1/4 c strong cold coffee (I use instant expresso)
3/4 tsp baking powder
3-1/2 c flour

Steps

1. Mix butter, sugar, honey and spices. Heat until dissolved. I usually do this in the microwave. Let cool.
2. Sift dry ingredients together.
3. Beat eggs well and add to honey mixture, then add coffee and dry ingredients.
4. Chill for 3 hours or overnight.  This way it's easier to handle.
5. Bake at 350 degrees for 10-12 minutes.
6. Cool then roll in powdered sugar or coat by shaking in a container or bag with powdered sugar in it.