Save Whimsical, wintry treats featuring a creamy nut butter mixture shaped into pinecones and coated with crunchy cereals—perfect for festive snacking.
I enjoy making these pinecone-shaped snacks with my family during the holidays; they love helping press the cereal pieces as pinecone scales.
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 My kids look forward to snack time when we make these together; it's become a cherished family tradition.
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.
Save These pinecone-shaped nut butter snacks are perfect for festive occasions and kids love them especially when made together.
Cooking Guide
- → What nuts can I use instead of almond butter?
Sunflower seed butter is a great nut-free alternative, providing a similar creamy texture and flavor.
- → Can these treats be made gluten-free?
Yes, by selecting a gluten-free cereal such as gluten-free cocoa puffs or rice-based cereals, you can keep them gluten-free.
- → How do I shape the pinecone texture?
After shaping the nut butter mixture into oval forms, press cereal pieces starting from one end with slight overlap to resemble pinecone scales.
- → Can I store these snacks for later?
Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep fresh for up to 5 days.
- → What adds extra flavor to these pinecones?
Mini chocolate chips or dried fruit mixed into the nut butter can enhance taste and texture.