Save A whimsical, crunchy dessert featuring chocolate-coated nut clusters shaped like pinecones, perfect for holiday gatherings or as an elegant woodland treat.
This rustic dessert always impresses guests with its charming pinecone shape and delightful texture
Ingredients
- Chocolate: 200 g dark chocolate (60–70% cocoa) chopped, 50 g milk chocolate chopped
- Nuts & Seeds: 100 g whole almonds toasted, 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 My family delights in creating these clusters together each holiday season, making sweet memories
Notes
Substitute walnuts or hazelnuts for the almonds and pecans if preferred For extra crunch add 2 tbsp roasted pumpkin seeds Serve with a glass of tawny port or a cup of espresso for an elegant touch Store in an airtight container at cool room temperature for up to 1 week
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
Save Enjoy these delightful clusters fresh for the best texture and flavor every time
Recipe Guide
- → How do I shape the clusters to resemble pinecones?
Shape the coated nut mixture into oval forms using spoons, then press additional nut halves on top to mimic overlapping pinecone scales.
- → Can I substitute the nuts used in these clusters?
Yes, walnuts or hazelnuts can replace almonds and pecans for a different flavor and texture profile.
- → What is the best way to melt the chocolate evenly?
Melt chocolates over a double boiler stirring continuously, or use a microwave in short 20-second bursts until smooth.
- → Are these clusters suitable for gluten-sensitive diets?
Yes, provided you use gluten-free cornflakes, the clusters remain gluten-free and friendly to gluten-sensitive diets.
- → How should the clusters be stored after preparation?
Store in an airtight container at cool room temperature for up to one week to maintain freshness and crunch.