Save Whimsical, wintry treats featuring a creamy nut butter mixture shaped into pinecones and coated with crunchy cereals—perfect for festive snacking.
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
Save Recipe FAQs
- → What type of nut butter works best?
Creamy almond or peanut butter works well due to their smooth texture and rich flavor, but sunflower seed butter is a great nut-free alternative.
- → Can I use gluten-free cereal for coating?
Yes, gluten-free whole grain cereals can be used to maintain a crunchy coating and accommodate dietary needs.
- → How should I store these nut butter pinecones?
Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days to keep them fresh and firm.
- → Is baking required for this snack?
No baking is needed. The mixture is chilled and shaped, then coated with cereal for a no-heat preparation.
- → Can I add extra flavors or decorations?
Yes, mini chocolate chips, dried fruit, or a light dusting of powdered sugar can enhance flavor and presentation.