Pin it Whimsical, wintry treats featuring a creamy nut butter mixture shaped into pinecones and coated with crunchy cereals—perfect for festive snacking.
I love making these with my family during the holidays because shaping each pinecone is a delightful activity and the kids enjoy pressing the cereal pieces on.
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.
Pin it Making these pinecone snacks becomes a cherished family tradition that brings everyone together in the kitchen every winter.
Notes
Add mini chocolate chips or dried fruit for extra flavor and pair 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 snacks are a perfect bite-sized treat to celebrate the season with friends and family.