Ingredients

  • 1 c. all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 tsp. baking powder
  • 1/8 tsp. baking soda
  • 1/2 tsp. black pepper
  • 2 tbsp. brandy
  • 1/2 tsp. cardamom powder
  • 3/4 tsp. cinnamon
  • 1 egg yolk
  • 1/4 c. toasted ground almonds
  • 1/4 tsp. ground cloves
  • 1 tsp. finely minced lemon peel
  • 1/4 c. molasses
  • 1/4 tsp. nutmeg
  • 1 tbsp. finely minced orange peel
  • powdered sugar for dusting
  • 1/8 tsp. salt
  • 1/2 c. sugar
  • 1/3 c. unsalted butter

Method

  • 1. Stir together well the flour, spices, baking soda, baking powder and salt.
  • 2. Beat the butter and sugar until very creamy in a mixing bowl, then add the egg yolk, zests and almonds.
  • 3. Stir in half the flour, then the brandy and molasses, then the rest of the flour.
  • 4. Wrap and refrigerate the dough overnight.
  • 5. Heat the oven to 350 degrees F when ready to bake.
  • 6. Roll the dough into little balls the size of marbles, about 3/4 inch, and place them on cookie sheets.
  • 7. Bake 12-15 minutes or until they just start to turn brown.
  • 8. Cool briefly, and then roll in powdered sugar.
  • Make cookies small, bite-sized