# What You'll Need:
→ Nut Butter Mixture
01 - 1 cup creamy almond butter or peanut 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 equivalent)
08 - 1/4 cup powdered sugar (optional, for dusting)
# Steps to Follow:
01 - In a medium mixing bowl, blend almond butter, softened butter, honey or maple syrup, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt until smooth and fully incorporated.
02 - Refrigerate the mixture for 10 to 15 minutes until it firms slightly, facilitating easier shaping.
03 - Divide the chilled mixture into 12 equal portions and shape each into a small oval resembling the base of a pinecone.
04 - Starting at the narrow end, gently press chocolate cereal pieces onto each oval, overlapping them to simulate pinecone scales.
05 - Place the decorated pinecones on a parchment-lined baking tray.
06 - Lightly dust with powdered sugar to create a snowy effect, if desired.
07 - Refrigerate the pinecones for 10 minutes to allow them to set firmly before serving.
