Jim got me some cream today. He could not find anything called sweet cream so he got whipping cream. If I find it too thick I will cut it. Yes, I am using Karo for the white syrup. I think it's the same thing.
My mother used to have a little recipe book with only pfeffernusse. There were about 48 recipes. This was Mom's favorite. I have seen a lot of recipes for this cookie online.
Sorry, I have not heard of New Year's cake. Will have to look it up.