# What You Need:
→ Nut Butter Mixture
01 - 1 cup creamy almond butter (or peanut butter)
02 - 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
03 - 1/3 cup honey or maple syrup
04 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
05 - 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
06 - 1/4 teaspoon salt
→ Coating & Decoration
07 - 2 cups chocolate-flavored whole grain cereal (e.g., Chex, Cocoa Krispies, or gluten-free equivalent)
08 - 1/4 cup powdered sugar (optional, for dusting)
# Steps:
01 - In a medium bowl, combine the almond butter, softened butter, honey or maple syrup, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt. Mix thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and evenly blended.
02 - Place the mixture in the refrigerator for 10 to 15 minutes to firm up slightly, facilitating easier shaping.
03 - Divide the chilled mixture into 12 equal portions. Shape each portion into a small oval form resembling the base of a pinecone.
04 - Starting at the narrow end of each oval, gently press cereal pieces into the nut butter, overlapping them to simulate pinecone scales all along the surface.
05 - Place the coated pinecones onto a parchment-lined baking tray in preparation for setting.
06 - Lightly sprinkle powdered sugar over the pinecones to create a snowy appearance if desired.
07 - Refrigerate the pinecones for an additional 10 minutes to allow them to set firmly before serving.
