italian pepper cookies recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best italian pepper cookies recipe

I’ve been making Italian pepper cookies for years, and every time I take a bite, I’m transported back to my childhood. These cookies are a staple in many Italian households, and for good reason – they’re easy to make, delicious, and packed with flavor.

The combination of sweet and spicy from the peppers is a match made in heaven. My family loves them, and I’m sure yours will too.

I’ve made them for holidays, special occasions, and even just as a snack on a regular day. They’re perfect for when you want something a little different from the usual cookie.

Plus, they’re relatively healthy compared to other sweet treats, thanks to the use of olive oil and minimal added sugar. I love that they’re also versatile – you can make them with different types of peppers or add-ins like nuts or chocolate chips.

But let’s be real, the classic recipe is where it’s at.

Italian Pepper Cookies Recipe

4.5 from 1637 votes

Italian Pepper Cookies are a traditional Italian treat with a spicy kick. These crispy, peppery cookies are perfect for coffee or tea.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 24Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Dough

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
1 tsp salt
1 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Topping

1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat oven to 350°F.
2Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
4Add the cold, cubed butter to the dry ingredients.
5Use your fingers to work the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
6In a separate bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, egg, and vanilla extract.
7Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
8The dough should be slightly crumbly but hold together when pressed.
9Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface.
10Use a rolling pin to roll the dough to about 1/4-inch thickness.
11Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes.
12Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
13In a small bowl, mix together the granulated sugar, black pepper, and cayenne pepper for the topping.
14Sprinkle the topping evenly over the cookies, pressing gently to adhere.
15Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
16The centers should still be slightly soft.
17Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

🔧Equipment

Mixing bowl
Baking sheet
Parchment paper
Oven
Rolling pin
Cookie cutters

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 30mg🧂Sodium: 600mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 15g

📝Notes

Tips: You can adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to suit your spice preference.

Watch Video Of How Italian Pepper Cookies Recipe Works

Italian pepper cookies are a classic recipe that never goes out of style. They’re perfect for any occasion – whether it’s a holiday gathering or just a Tuesday afternoon snack.

The combination of sweet and spicy from the peppers is addictive, and they’re relatively healthy compared to other sweet treats. You can store them at room temperature for up to 5 days or freeze them for up to 3 months.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Italian Pepper Cookies

1. Can I use white pepper instead of black pepper?

White pepper can be used as a substitute for black pepper in this recipe. However, keep in mind that white pepper has a milder flavor and a slightly different taste profile. You may need to adjust the amount of white pepper to achieve the desired level of spiciness.

2. Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes, you can make these cookies gluten-free by substituting the whole wheat flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to choose a blend that includes xanthan gum or guar gum, as these ingredients help to bind the ingredients together. You may need to adjust the liquid content of the recipe to achieve the desired consistency.

3. Can I add other spices to these cookies?

Yes, you can experiment with adding other spices to these cookies. Some popular options include cinnamon, nutmeg, and cardamom. Start with a small amount of the additional spice and adjust to taste. Keep in mind that adding too many spices can overpower the flavor of the black pepper.

4. Can I freeze these cookies?

Yes, you can freeze these cookies for up to three months. Place the cooled cookies in an airtight container or freezer bag, and store them in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw the cookies at room temperature for a few hours. You can also reheat them in the oven for a few minutes to restore their crispiness.

5. Can I make these cookies without an egg?

Yes, you can make these cookies without an egg by using a flaxseed or chia seed mixture as an egg substitute. To make a flaxseed egg, mix one tablespoon of ground flaxseed with three tablespoons of water and let it sit for a few minutes until it thickens. Use this mixture as a replacement for one egg in the recipe. You may need to adjust the liquid content of the recipe to achieve the desired consistency.

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