Pfeffernusse is a classic German Christmas cookie, also known as Peppernuts. The Peppernut name is in part because the cookies are small, brown, and crunchy like nuts, also due to the combination of pepper and spices that give the cookie a slight peppery bite. Original Pfeffernusse is made without butter, but modern recipes use a small amount of butter for a softer texture and better flavor. The melted butter in this recipe helps to make a tender cookie, and heating the spices enhances their flavors