# What You'll Need:
→ Nut Butter Mixture
01 - 1 cup creamy almond butter
02 - 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
03 - 1/3 cup honey or maple syrup
04 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
05 - 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
06 - 1/4 teaspoon salt
→ Coating & Decoration
07 - 2 cups chocolate-flavored whole grain cereal (e.g., Chex, Cocoa Krispies, or gluten-free alternative)
08 - 1/4 cup powdered sugar (optional, for dusting)
# Step-by-Step Guide:
01 - In a medium bowl, mix almond butter, softened butter, honey or maple syrup, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until smooth and fully incorporated.
02 - Refrigerate the mixture for 10 to 15 minutes until it firms slightly to facilitate shaping.
03 - Divide the chilled mixture into 12 equal portions and shape each into a small oval to resemble the base of a pinecone.
04 - Starting from the narrow end, gently press cereal pieces into each nut butter oval overlapping slightly to mimic pinecone scales.
05 - Place the decorated pinecones on a tray lined with parchment paper.
06 - Lightly dust the pinecones with powdered sugar to create a snowy effect, if desired.
07 - Refrigerate for 10 minutes to firm before serving.
