# Needed Ingredients:
→ 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)
# Preparation Steps:
01 - In a medium mixing bowl, blend almond butter, softened butter, honey or maple syrup, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt until the mixture is smooth and uniform.
02 - Place the mixture in the refrigerator for 10 to 15 minutes to firm up slightly for easier handling.
03 - Divide the chilled mixture evenly into 12 portions and form each into a small oval resembling the base of a pinecone.
04 - Press the cereal pieces gently into each nut butter oval starting from the narrow end, overlapping pieces to mimic pinecone scales.
05 - Place the finished pinecones on a tray lined with parchment paper.
06 - Lightly dust the pinecones with powdered sugar to create a snow-like effect, if desired.
07 - Refrigerate the pinecones for 10 minutes to allow them to set before serving.