Save to Pinterest Whimsical, wintry treats featuring a creamy nut butter mixture shaped into pinecones and coated with crunchy cereals&mdashperfect for festive snacking.
I love making these with my family during the holidays; shaping the pinecones is fun for kids and adults alike.
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 These snacks always bring smiles at our family holiday parties and make great gifts.
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
Nutritional Information
Calories 150 Total Fat 9 g Carbohydrates 15 g Protein 3 g (per pinecone)
Save to Pinterest Enjoy these delightful snacks as a fun and tasty addition to your festive celebrations.
Common Recipe Questions
- → What type of nut butter works best?
Almond butter provides a creamy texture and mild flavor, but peanut or sunflower seed butter also work well as alternatives.
- → Can I use gluten-free cereal?
Yes, gluten-free whole grain cereals ensure these treats remain suitable for gluten-sensitive diets without sacrificing crunch.
- → How long should the mixture chill before shaping?
About 10-15 minutes in the refrigerator helps firm the mixture for easy handling and shaping into pinecones.
- → Is baking required for these snacks?
No baking is needed; the mixture is chilled and assembled cold, making preparation quick and simple.
- → How should these nut butter pinecones be stored?
Keep them refrigerated in an airtight container for up to five days to maintain freshness and texture.
- → Can these treats be customized?
Yes, you can add mini chocolate chips or dried fruits for extra flavor, or substitute nut butter for seed butter to avoid allergens.