Not only were they made at Christmas time but also for other special occasions - showers, anniversary parties, baptisms, communions, and especially weddings. When I got married back in the day, I remember all my aunts baking, then hauling trays to my mom's house and making up cookie baskets that we set out on each table... really fun memories (and not to mention very delicious)!
- 2 cups flour
- ½ cup cocoa
- ⅛ teaspoon salt
- 2 ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon cloves
- ¼ teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon vanilla
- ¼ lb raisins
- 1.5 well beaten eggs
- ¼ cups chopped walnuts
- ½ cup crisco
- ¾ cup sugar
- milk as needed
- Place raisins in pan, cover with water and boil about 5 minutes to plump up then drain
- Beat crisco and sugar in a large bowl
- Then add dry ingredients (mixture will be dry)
- Add eggs, vanilla, raisins and nuts.
- Add enough milk to soften (about ½ cup; add slowly)
- Mix well then roll in small balls (walnut size ) and press slightly on center.
- Bake on greased cookie sheet (or parchment paper) at 350 for 8-10 minutes.
- I just made icing by combing powdered sugar and milk, dipped in tops and used colored sprinkles
Don't let the pepper scare you off! These have a mild bite and the cocoa in them makes them nice and chocolately.
I've made one batch this season and may need to do another! They are quickly disappearing!
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We are all about sharing our love of good food so on the blog you will find easy recipes to enjoy with your family and friends. We hope to inspire you to host a gathering to create special memories. Most recipes are step by step so you can feel confident in the kitchen. Take a look around to find everything from breakfast to dinner and everything in-between!
Tanya-Lemonsforlulu.com says
Isn't fun recreating cookies from our childhood? I've never had black pepper cookies! But I think I'd love them! Fabulous cookies Deb and I love your new blog look!
Nancy Piran says
First time hearing of this type of cookie. Sounds delicious!
Claire @ A Little Claireification says
Just YUM. My Italian Hubs is drooling with me. They look delicious AND beautiful. Pinning of course! 🙂
[email protected] says
Thanks Claire!
Andi Gleeson says
What pretty pictures, Deb! Love these! Could I make them without the raisins?
P.S. Your new site design looks fab 🙂
Anne ~ Uni Homemaker says
I'm intrigued by this recipe Deb. Never had black pepper in sweet cookies before. Sounds delicious! Thank you for sharing this recipe. 🙂
Cindy Eikenberg, Little Miss Celebration says
These cookies remind me of something similar my grandmother used to make - they look wonderful, Deb! Thanks for sharing your recipe with us - pinning and buffering! Hope you have a fantastic Wednesday!
Ann Jones says
Your site looks great, I love the changes 🙂 The cookies look delicious, yum!
Consuelo @ Honey & Figs says
Oh My - Deb, the new blog's look is gorgeous! Just like these cookies. They look beautiful with those sprinkles ; ) And the black pepper sounds like a really interesting addition, I have to try these!
Pinning and have a lovely day!
Joan / My Cookie Clinic says
Deb, I'm sure your Nonni would be very happy that you're carrying on the tradition of baking her cookies. Thanks for sharing this special family recipe. Plan to pin these!
Kelly LifemadeSweeter says
I've never heard of a black pepper cookie before but thanks for sharing. They sound wonderful!
Ali Maffucci says
These look so beautiful - I love this recipe and this type of cookie. Thanks for sharing.
Ginger Wroot says
I am intrigued...can't wait to try these over the holidays! And they're so pretty too!