Peppercorn Cookies

Startling but addictive. A crisp, not-too-sweet, but spicy cookie, particularly if you up the peppercorns and other spices. The dough is easy to work and makes a large quantity.

• Ready In: 30 mins
• Yields: 48 cookies

Ingredients

• 3  cups unbleached flour
• 2  teaspoons baking powder
• 1  cup butter, softened
• 1  teaspoon  cracked black peppercorns (a generous t. (or more)
• 1  pinch cayenne
• 1  tablespoon ground ginger
• 2  teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1⁄2 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1 3⁄4 cups sugar
• 1  egg

Directions

1. Heat oven 375'.
2. Combine flour and baking powder.
3. In another bowl, cream butter till it is pale yellow and fluffy. Gradually beat in sugar and spices, then egg. And finally, gradually beat in flour.
4. Knead dough on floured surface a few times. Divide it into 3 pieces and roll each piece to 1/8" thickness. Cut with cookie cutters and place onto ungreased (or parchment-lined) baking sheet. Bake until edges are golden, about 10-12 minutes. Cool on wire rack.