Pepernoten!

Yes... How do I explain this?

These are small spicy cookies that are typically Dutch and that are traditionally associated with the Sinterklaas (Saint Nicholas) feast that is celebrated on 5 December. Therefore you can normally only buy them from half November until around 5 December. But like christmas decorations that are sold earlier and earlier in the year, this is also the case with everything that is associated with Sinterklaas! This is why I can already enjoy them now!!! :)

The pepernoten (literally "pepper nuts") are flavored with a mixture of spices such as anise, cinnamon, nutmeg, pepper, cardamom etc. In terms of taste, the closest "international" equivalent that I can think of is ginger bread.



In Belgium they also celebrate Sinterklaas, but on 6 December instead of on the 5th. Hey, the guy can only do one country at a time! :) This is also the reason why I can buy my Dutch treat over here! Lucky me!