Pinecone Shaped Peanut Butter

Delightfully whimsical cookies with a rich peanut butter flavor, shaped to resemble charming pinecones—perfect for holiday gatherings or as a fun family baking project.

I first baked these cookies for the holidays and they were an instant hit with my family who loved shaping each cookie like a pinecone.

Ingredients

• Dry Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon baking soda, 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Wet Ingredients: 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened, 1 cup creamy peanut butter, 3/4 cup light brown sugar packed, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, 1 large egg, 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• For Shaping and Decorating: 1/2 cup chocolate sprinkles or sliced almonds (for pinecone scales), 2 tablespoons powdered sugar (optional for dusting)

Instructions

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Step 1:

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.

Step 2:

In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

Step 3:

In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter, peanut butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until creamy and smooth.

Step 4:

Add the egg and vanilla extract beat until well combined.

Step 5:

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms.

Step 6:

Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of dough. Shape each portion into a small oval, tapering one end to form a pinecone shape.

Step 7:

Place ovals on prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

Step 8:

Using clean tweezers or the tip of a small knife, gently press chocolate sprinkles or sliced almonds into the dough at an angle to mimic pinecone scales, starting at the tapered end and working upward.

Step 9:

Bake for 10–12 minutes, until set and lightly golden.

Step 10:

Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 11:

Optional: Dust with powdered sugar for a snowy effect before serving.

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Baking these cookies always brings back warm family memories with everyone gathering around to press in the scales and share stories.

Notes

For a chocolatey twist, dip the base of each cookie in melted chocolate and let set. Swap almond slices for sunflower seeds if nut allergies are a concern but note peanut content remains. Serve with hot cocoa or spiced tea for a festive treat.

Required Tools

Mixing bowls, electric mixer, measuring cups and spoons, baking sheets, parchment paper, tweezers or small knife, wire rack

Nutritional Information

Calories: 140, Total Fat: 8 g, Carbohydrates: 15 g, Protein: 3 g per cookie

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These cookies are perfect for sharing with loved ones and adding a whimsical touch to your holiday dessert table.

Recipe FAQ

→ How do I shape the cookies to look like pinecones?

Shape the dough into small ovals, tapering one end to mimic a pinecone. Press chocolate sprinkles or almond slices at an angle onto the dough with tweezers or a small knife to create the scales.

→ Can I substitute almond slices for decorations?

Yes, sliced almonds add a natural pinecone texture, but you can also use chocolate sprinkles for a different look. For allergies, sunflower seeds are a suitable alternative.

→ What makes these cookies soft and chewy?

The blend of creamy peanut butter with butter and sugars creates a moist, tender dough that yields soft, chewy treats after baking.

→ How should I store these treats after baking?

Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness and texture for several days.

→ What drink pairs well with these pinecone treats?

Warm beverages like hot cocoa or spiced tea complement the rich peanut butter flavor and enhance the festive experience.