# Components:
→ 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 alternative)
08 - 1/4 cup powdered sugar (optional, for dusting)
# Directions:
01 - In a medium mixing bowl, blend almond butter, softened unsalted butter, honey or maple syrup, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until smooth and cohesive.
02 - Place the mixture in the refrigerator for 10 to 15 minutes until slightly firm to facilitate shaping.
03 - Divide the chilled mixture into 12 equal portions. Form each into a small oval shape resembling a pinecone base.
04 - Starting at the narrow end, press chocolate-flavored cereal pieces onto each nut butter oval, overlapping slightly to imitate pinecone scales.
05 - Place the finished pinecones on a parchment-lined baking tray. Optionally, dust lightly with powdered sugar for a snowy effect.
06 - Refrigerate the pinecones for 10 minutes to set the coating firmly before serving.
