Save Whimsical, wintry treats featuring a creamy nut butter mixture shaped into pinecones and coated with crunchy cereals—perfect for festive snacking.
Preparation Time: 25 minutes Cooking Time: 0 minutes Total Time: 25 minutes Category: Snack, Dessert Difficulty: Easy Cuisine: American Yield: 12 pinecones Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free (if using GF cereal)
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 Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. 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.
Nutritional Information
Calories 150 Total Fat 9 g Carbohydrates 15 g Protein 3 g
Save 
These pinecone-shaped nut butter snacks are easy to prepare and perfect for holiday gatherings.
Recipe FAQs
- → What nut butter can I use for these pinecone snacks?
Almond or peanut butter work well for the base, but sunflower seed butter is a great nut-free alternative.
- → How do I shape the pinecones?
Chill the nut butter mixture to firm it up, then shape into small ovals and press cereal pieces gently to mimic pinecone scales.
- → Can I use gluten-free cereal for the coating?
Yes, choosing gluten-free cereals like certain whole grain options ensures the snack remains gluten-free.
- → Is cooking required for these snacks?
No cooking is needed. The treats are assembled and chilled, making preparation quick and easy.
- → How should I store these pinecone snacks?
Keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days to maintain freshness.