Save Whimsical, wintry treats featuring a creamy nut butter mixture shaped into pinecones and coated with crunchy cereals—perfect for festive snacking.
This recipe brings back fond memories of holiday baking with my family, filling the house with sweet and spicy aromas.
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 These treats always bring smiles to my family gatherings, especially when shared with hot cocoa on a cold evening.
Notes
Add mini chocolate chips or dried fruit for extra flavor and texture variations.
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
Save Enjoy these charming snacks by preparing them a day ahead to let flavors meld and decorations set perfectly.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → How do I shape the nut butter mixture into pinecones?
Chill the mixture until firm, then form small ovals. Press cereal pieces from the narrow end downwards to mimic pinecone scales.
- → Can I substitute almond butter for another spread?
Yes, sunflower seed butter works well for a nut-free option without compromising texture or taste.
- → Is it necessary to refrigerate the snacks before serving?
Refrigerating helps the mixture set firmly, making the pinecones easier to handle and enhancing their texture.
- → What cereals work best for the coating?
Chocolate-flavored whole grain cereals like Chex or Cocoa Krispies add crunch and create an appealing pinecone scale effect.
- → How should I store leftover snacks?
Keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days to maintain freshness and texture.