Chocolate Pine Cones!
As the festive season gets into full swing, it’s impossible to avoid this year’s latest food trend: edible pine cones! These delightful creations are perfect for adding a touch of winter magic to your table, whether you’re hosting a seasonal buffet or simply looking for a creative snack.
While not necessarily a recipe, these pine cones are more of a fun, hands-on activity – great as an activity for the children too. There are many recipes floating about, but these ones are a quicker and healthier version than some! These are also no-bake, so no baking skills or special equipment needed.
So, wash your hands, grab your ingredients, and get creating an edible masterpiece!
The Pine Cones Recipe
As always, I’ve tried to keep the recipe and the ingredients as simple as possible. The only specific ingredient you may need is a curled chocolate cereal. Look at the photos to get an idea! There are several brands which make something which would work, so just get what you can. You also need some soft juicy dates, a nut butter (I used peanut) and some cocoa. If you really need to, you could also add a bit of liquid sweetener.
Edible decorative no-bake pine cones
- 5-6 large soft dates (or soak drier dates in a few spoons of boiling water to soften)
- 2-3 teaspoons nut or seed butter of choice (I used unsweetened peanut butter)
- 1/2-1 teaspoon cocoa powder (less for raw cocoa)
- *1-2 teaspoons liquid sweetener e.g. maple syrup (optional)
- 1-2 cups curled chocolate cereal
- *1 teaspoon icing sugar and/or desiccated coconut (optional)
Destone the dates and mash with a fork. Add the nut butter and mix well together.
Wash and dry your hands well, then add the cocoa powder a bit at a time and blend everything together using your hands (messy, but gives the best results). Taste test and add more cocoa as needed. If you prefer a sweeter taste, add a bit of liquid sweetener.
Divide the mixture into walnut sized pieces and roll into a ball. Taper one end so you have a 'cone' shape. Set aside and repeat with all the mixture. They can be different sizes and the shapes can be slightly wonky!
Starting at the bottom, curve upwards, push pieces of cereal around the base of your cone. Do one complete circle, then repeat with another slightly higher circle. Keep going until you reach the top. Make sure they are all pressed in well and add any extras if needed. Broken cereal adds to the authenticity! Repeat until you have all your pine cones.
Arrange on a plate and if using, dust with icing sugar and/or coconut.
Enjoy!
What do I need?
Hopefully you already have everything you need for this recipe, but in case you’re new to baking and cooking, or just want a refresh, here are a few items you might like. These links will take you straight to Amazon where you can then search as usual for anything you need. If you follow these links, Amazon might pay us a small commission, which goes towards paying the website hosting fees. We’d be very grateful if you do, thank you! Have a look at these: decorative plates, small bowls, fresh dates, chocolate cereal, and other items which you might need. Much appreciated!
Serving
Serve your chocolate pine cones as a seasonal dessert, an afternoon snack, or make a plateful and use them to decorate a festive buffet spread. Eat them as they are, or pair with a creamy hot chocolate, a glass of mulled wine, or your favourite coffee.
Storing
These will store for at least a week and retain their crispiness. Keep them covered – ideally in an airtight container if possible, although they will also be okay left out!
Sharing
These are perfect for sharing! Make a range of sizes so everyone can enjoy them.
As always, I love hearing about any recipes of mine you try, any ideas you adapt or suggestions you have for future recipes. Please share and tag me @LifeDietHealth or using #LifeDietHealth on Instagram, Pinterest, Facebook or X.
Leave me a comment below… I love to chat!
I hope to speak with you soon
Laurena x
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