There’s something magical about holiday baking, isn’t there? The smell of spices wafting through the kitchen, the warmth of the oven, and the joy of sharing something homemade with loved ones. If you’re looking for a cookie recipe that’s a little different from the usual sugar-and-sprinkles fare, let me introduce you to Grandma Anna’s Italian Pepper Cookies.
These cookies are a delightful mix of spicy and sweet, with a hint of citrus and a touch of nostalgia. Trust me, they’re the kind of treat that’ll have everyone asking for the recipe.
What Makes grandma anna’s Italian Pepper Cookies So Special?
There’s something magical about holiday baking, isn’t there? The smell of spices wafting through the kitchen, the warmth of the oven, and the joy of sharing something homemade with loved ones. If you’re looking for a cookie recipe that’s a little different from the usual sugar-and-sprinkles fare, let me introduce you to Grandma Anna’s Italian Pepper Cookies. These cookies are a delightful mix of spicy and sweet, with a hint of citrus and a touch of nostalgia. Trust me, they’re the kind of treat that’ll have everyone asking for the recipe.
The Story Behind the Recipe
This recipe comes straight from Grandma Anna’s kitchen, passed down through generations. It’s one of those old-school recipes that doesn’t rely on modern shortcuts. Instead, it’s all about simple ingredients and time-honored techniques.
The result? A cookie that’s rich in flavor and history. Every bite feels like a warm hug from Nonna herself.
How to Make Italian Pepper Cookies
Ready to bake? Here’s everything you need to know to whip up a batch of these spicy-sweet delights.
Ingredients
For the cookies:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups white sugar
- ¼ cup cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper (yes, really!)
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 cup shortening
- 1 cup milk
- ¼ cup orange juice
- 1 teaspoon grated orange zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup raisins
- ½ cup chopped walnuts
- ¼ cup finely chopped walnuts
For the glaze:
- ¾ cup confectioners’ sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 tablespoon orange juice
- 1 teaspoon grated orange zest
- 2 tablespoons multi-colored sprinkles (optional, but festive!)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat and Prep
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to keep the cookies from sticking. - Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, black pepper, cinnamon, baking soda, nutmeg, and cloves. This is where the magic begins—the spices create that signature warmth and depth of flavor. - Melt the Shortening
Pop the shortening in a microwave-safe bowl and heat it in 30-second intervals until melted. Add it to the dry ingredients and mix everything together with a spoon. - Add the Wet Ingredients
Pour in the milk, orange juice, orange zest, and vanilla extract. Stir until the dough comes together. Then, fold in the raisins and walnuts. At this point, you’ll want to use your hands to make sure everything is evenly combined. - Shape and Bake
Roll the dough into small balls (about 1 inch in diameter) and place them on the prepared baking sheets, leaving about ½ inch between each cookie. Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the edges are golden. - Cool and Glaze : Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. While they cool, whisk together the confectioners’ sugar, milk, orange juice, and zest to make the glaze. Brush or spoon the glaze over the cookies and add sprinkles if you’re feeling fancy.
Grandma Anna’s Italian Pepper Cookies: A Spicy-Sweet Holiday Tradition
Ingredients
For the cookies:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups white sugar
- ¼ cup cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper yes, really!
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 cup shortening
- 1 cup milk
- ¼ cup orange juice
- 1 teaspoon grated orange zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup raisins
- ½ cup chopped walnuts
- ¼ cup finely chopped walnuts
For the glaze:
- ¾ cup confectioners’ sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 tablespoon orange juice
- 1 teaspoon grated orange zest
- 2 tablespoons multi-colored sprinkles optional, but festive!
Instructions
- Preheat and Prep: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to keep the cookies from sticking.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, black pepper, cinnamon, baking soda, nutmeg, and cloves. This is where the magic begins—the spices create that signature warmth and depth of flavor.
- Melt the Shortening: Pop the shortening in a microwave-safe bowl and heat it in 30-second intervals until melted. Add it to the dry ingredients and mix everything together with a spoon.
- Add the Wet Ingredients: Pour in the milk, orange juice, orange zest, and vanilla extract. Stir until the dough comes together. Then, fold in the raisins and walnuts. At this point, you’ll want to use your hands to make sure everything is evenly combined.
- Shape and Bake: Roll the dough into small balls (about 1 inch in diameter) and place them on the prepared baking sheets, leaving about ½ inch between each cookie. Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the edges are golden.
- Cool and Glaze: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. While they cool, whisk together the confectioners’ sugar, milk, orange juice, and zest to make the glaze. Brush or spoon the glaze over the cookies and add sprinkles if you’re feeling fancy.
Notes
- These cookies are ideal for holiday gifting or festive gatherings.
- The optional multi-colored sprinkles add a festive touch.
- Store in an airtight container for up to a week.
Why You’ll Love This Italian Pepper Cookie Recipe
- Unique Flavor: The blend of black pepper, cocoa, and citrus is unlike anything you’ve tasted before.
- Perfect for Sharing: These cookies make a great gift or holiday party treat.
Easy to Make: No mixer required—just simple, hands-on baking.
Tips for the Best Italian Pepper Cookies
- Don’t Skip the Spices: The black pepper and cinnamon are what give these cookies their distinctive flavor.
- Use Fresh Orange Zest: It makes a world of difference in both the dough and the glaze.
Experiment with Add-Ins: Not a fan of raisins? Try dried cranberries or chopped dates instead.
Tips & Variations
- For a nut-free version, omit the walnuts or replace them with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin.
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
- Substitute raisins with dried cranberries or chopped dates for a twist.
- Use almond milk or oat milk for a dairy-free option.
- Decorate with festive sprinkles or edible glitter for a holiday touch.
Final Thoughts
Grandma Anna’s Italian Pepper Cookies are more than just a recipe—they’re a tradition. Whether you’re baking them for the holidays, a special occasion, or just because, these cookies are sure to impress. So, roll up your sleeves, preheat that oven, and get ready to create something truly memorable.
And hey, if you’re feeling generous, maybe share a few with your neighbors. After all, ’tis the season for spreading joy—one cookie at a time.
Looking for More Italian Recipes?
Here are some must-try recipes that bring authentic Italian flavors to your kitchen:
- Instant Pot Italian Chicken Pasta
- Italian Mule Cocktail with Amaretto
- Italian Leaf Cookies Recipe
- Olive Garden Italian Margarita
- Italian Sausage Roll Recipe
Try these recipes and bring the taste of Italy to your table!
Tried This Recipe?
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