Save Whimsical, wintry treats featuring a creamy nut butter mixture shaped into pinecones and coated with crunchy cereals&mdashperfect for festive snacking.
I remember making these with my family every holiday season as a fun and easy festive snack.
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 (eg 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 1015 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 snacks have brought joy at many family gatherings, always sparking smiles and conversation.
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 This pinecone-shaped snack is a charming and delicious addition to any holiday spread.
Recipe Questions
- → Can I use other nut butters for these snacks?
Yes, almond butter can be swapped for peanut or sunflower seed butter to accommodate allergies or preferences.
- → How do I achieve the pinecone shape?
Divide the chilled mixture into small oval portions, then press cereal pieces starting from the narrow end to mimic pinecone scales.
- → Is refrigeration necessary?
Yes, chilling the mixture before shaping and after coating helps the snacks hold their form and texture.
- → Can I add extra flavors or decorations?
Mini chocolate chips or dried fruits can be mixed in or used as decorations to enhance flavor and appearance.
- → How should these snacks be stored?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days to maintain freshness.