Pin It Whimsical, wintry treats featuring a creamy nut butter mixture shaped into pinecones and coated with crunchy cereals—perfect for festive snacking.
I always enjoy making these pinecone-shaped nut butter snacks during the holidays; they bring smiles and festive cheer to family and friends.
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
- Combine Ingredients:
- In a medium bowl, combine almond butter, softened butter, honey (or maple syrup), vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt. Mix until smooth and well-blended.
- Chill Mixture:
- Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for 10–15 minutes until slightly firm, making it easier to handle.
- Shape Pinecones:
- Divide the chilled mixture into 12 portions. Shape each portion into a small oval, resembling a pinecone base.
- Press Cereal:
- 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.
- Arrange:
- Arrange finished pinecones on a parchment-lined tray.
- Dust:
- For a snowy effect, lightly dust with powdered sugar.
- Refrigerate:
- Refrigerate for 10 minutes to set before serving.
Pin It My family especially loves gathering to make and enjoy these treats together, creating sweet holiday memories.
Notes
Add mini chocolate chips or dried fruit for extra flavor. Pairs well with hot cocoa or spiced tea.
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.
Pin It These pinecone snacks are a delightful, easy-to-make treat that bring festive joy to any occasion.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What nut butters can I use for these snacks?
Almond or peanut butter works best, but sunflower seed butter is a great nut-free alternative.
- → Can I make these snacks gluten-free?
Yes, use a gluten-free whole grain cereal to keep the coating safe for gluten-sensitive diets.
- → How do I create the pinecone texture with cereal?
Press cereal pieces gently into the chilled nut butter oval, overlapping slightly to mimic pinecone scales.
- → What is the best way to store these snacks?
Keep them refrigerated in an airtight container for up to five days to maintain freshness.
- → Can I add other flavors or decorations?
Absolutely. Mini chocolate chips, dried fruit, or a light dusting of powdered sugar enhance flavor and appearance.