Pepernoot

Pepernoot is a delightful Dutch treat traditionally enjoyed during the Sinterklaas holiday in early December in the Netherlands and Belgium. While it shares some ingredients with the German Pfeffernüsse, its appearance differs from one type of Pfeffernüsse but is quite similar to another version that found its way to the US and is still produced there. This American version of pepernoot includes cardamom, cloves, cinnamon, pepper, butter, vinegar, eggs, brown syrup, and flour.

Pepernoten are light brown, square-shaped confections made from ingredients similar to those in taai-taai, such as rye flour, sugar, anise, and sometimes cinnamon and clove. These treats start off chewy but harden over time when exposed to air.

One of the charming traditions surrounding pepernoten involves tossing handfuls of them around the room for children to find. This age-old practice was once seen as a symbol of fertility, similar to sowing seeds. Historically, parents would place carrots under their newborn's pillow, hoping that Sinterklaas would bless their child by showering them with pepernoten.