Save to Pinterest A whimsical, crunchy dessert featuring chocolate-coated nut clusters shaped like pinecones, perfect for holiday gatherings or as an elegant woodland treat.
This recipe reminds me of cozy winter evenings when sharing treats with friends felt magical and warm.
Ingredients
- Chocolate: 200 g dark chocolate (60–70
), chopped and 50 g milk chocolate, chopped - Nuts & Seeds: 100 g whole almonds, toasted and 75 g pecan halves, toasted
- Crunch: 60 g cornflake cereal (gluten-free if needed)
- Decoration: 1 tbsp powdered sugar (for dusting, optional)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Step 2:
- Melt the dark and milk chocolate together in a heatproof bowl set over a pot of simmering water (double boiler) or in the microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
- Step 3:
- Add the toasted almonds, pecan halves, and cornflakes to the melted chocolate. Stir gently until everything is evenly coated.
- Step 4:
- Using two spoons, scoop 12 portions of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, shaping each into an oval or pinecone form.
- Step 5:
- Arrange extra nut halves on top to resemble overlapping pinecone scales, pressing gently to adhere.
- Step 6:
- Refrigerate clusters for 20–30 minutes, or until firm.
- Step 7:
- Dust lightly with powdered sugar before serving, if desired.
Save to Pinterest My family enjoys making these clusters together every holiday season, creating sweet memories with each bite.
Required Tools
Heatproof bowl, saucepan (if using double boiler), baking sheet, parchment paper, spoons
Allergen Information
Contains tree nuts (almonds pecans), milk (chocolate), and may contain traces of gluten (check cornflakes). Always verify ingredient labels for gluten and nut contamination if serving to those with allergies.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 165 Total Fat: 10 g Carbohydrates: 15 g Protein: 3 g per serving
Save to Pinterest These pinecone chocolate nut clusters are the perfect combination of crunch and sweetness for a festive treat.
Common Questions
- → What types of nuts are best for pinecone clusters?
Whole almonds and pecan halves are ideal for creating texture and shape, but walnuts or hazelnuts can be used as alternatives.
- → How do I melt the chocolate without burning it?
Melt chocolate gently using a double boiler or microwave in short intervals, stirring between to ensure smoothness.
- → Can I make these clusters gluten-free?
Yes, by selecting gluten-free cornflake cereal, the clusters naturally remain gluten-free.
- → What is the best way to shape the clusters?
Use two spoons to scoop and gently form oval pinecone shapes, then press nut halves on top to mimic scales.
- → How should I store the clusters after preparation?
Store in an airtight container at cool room temperature for up to one week to maintain freshness.
- → Can the clusters be customized for added crunch?
Yes, adding roasted pumpkin seeds enhances crunch and introduces a subtle nutty flavor.