Save to Pinterest Whimsical, wintry treats featuring a creamy nut butter mixture shaped into pinecones and coated with crunchy cereals—perfect for festive snacking.
I love making these pinecone-shaped snacks with my family during the winter holidays; they bring joy and festive spirit to our kitchen.
Ingredients
- Nut Butter Mixture: 1 cup creamy almond butter (or peanut butter), 1/4 cup unsalted butter softened, 1/3 cup honey or maple syrup, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Coating & Decoration: 2 cups chocolate-flavored whole grain cereal (e.g. Chex Cocoa Krispies or gluten-free equivalent), 1/4 cup powdered sugar (optional for dusting)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a medium bowl, combine almond butter, softened butter, honey (or maple syrup), vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt. Mix until smooth and well-blended.
- Step 2:
- Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for 10–15 minutes until slightly firm, making it easier to handle.
- Step 3:
- Divide the chilled mixture into 12 portions. Shape each portion into a small oval, resembling a pinecone base.
- Step 4:
- Starting from the narrow end, gently press cereal pieces into the nut butter oval to mimic pinecone scales, overlapping slightly as you work your way down.
- Step 5:
- Arrange finished pinecones on a parchment-lined tray.
- Step 6:
- For a snowy effect, lightly dust with powdered sugar.
- Step 7:
- Refrigerate for 10 minutes to set before serving.
Save to Pinterest My family delights in these treats as a warm bonding activity during chilly winter evenings.
Notes
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Pairs well with hot cocoa or spiced tea.
Required Tools
Mixing bowl, Spoon or spatula, Measuring cups and spoons, Baking tray, Parchment paper
Allergen Information
Contains nuts and dairy (butter) may contain gluten if cereal is not gluten-free. For nut-free use seed butter for dairy-free use plant-based butter. Always check ingredient labels for allergens.
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These pinecone snacks are a festive and fun way to enjoy a healthy treat during the holidays.
Recipe FAQs
- → What nut butters can I use for these pinecones?
Almond butter or peanut butter work best, but you can substitute sunflower seed butter for a nut-free option.
- → How do I achieve the pinecone texture?
Press crunchy cereal pieces gently into the nut butter oval, overlapping them slightly to mimic pinecone scales.
- → Can I prepare these in advance?
Yes, store the pinecones in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days without losing freshness.
- → Are these pinecones suitable for gluten-free diets?
Use gluten-free chocolate-flavored whole grain cereal to make the snack gluten-free.
- → How can I add extra flavor or texture?
Consider mixing in mini chocolate chips or dried fruit to the nut butter mixture before shaping.