Save A whimsical, crunchy dessert featuring chocolate-coated nut clusters shaped like pinecones, perfect for holiday gatherings or as an elegant woodland treat.
I enjoy making these Pinecone Chocolate Nut Clusters during the holidays because they bring a festive and rustic charm to any dessert table.
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 This recipe always brings smiles during family gatherings especially when the kids help shape the pinecones.
Required Tools
Heatproof bowl, saucepan (if using double boiler), baking sheet, parchment paper, spoons
Allergen Information
Contains tree nuts (almonds, pecans) and milk (chocolate). Verify ingredient labels for gluten and nut contamination if serving those with allergies.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: 165 calories, 10 g total fat, 15 g carbohydrates, 3 g protein
Save These clusters are perfect for gifting or as an elegant party treat that is both satisfying and visually appealing.
Recipe FAQs
- → What nuts are used in these clusters?
The clusters include toasted whole almonds and pecan halves, providing a rich, crunchy texture.
- → Can I substitute the nuts?
Yes, walnuts or hazelnuts can replace almonds and pecans for a different flavor profile.
- → How is the chocolate melted?
Melt dark and milk chocolate together using a double boiler or microwave in short bursts, stirring until smooth.
- → How do you shape the clusters?
Use two spoons to scoop portions onto parchment paper, shaping each into an oval resembling a pinecone. Press extra nut halves on top to mimic scales.
- → How should the clusters be stored?
Store in an airtight container at cool room temperature for up to one week to maintain texture and flavor.