Save to Pinterest Delightfully whimsical cookies with a rich peanut butter flavor, shaped to resemble charming pinecones&mdashperfect for holiday gatherings or as a fun family baking project.
These cookies became a festive family favorite during our holiday baking sessions, bringing smiles with every batch.
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
- 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.
Save to Pinterest Sharing these treats with family always creates warm, joyful memories around the holidays.
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
Per cookie: Calories 140, Total Fat 8 g, Carbohydrates 15 g, Protein 3 g
Save to Pinterest These cookies capture the spirit of the season with charming looks and delicious flavor.
Common Recipe Questions
- → How do you shape the dough to resemble pinecones?
Scoop oval portions and taper one end slightly. Gently press chocolate sprinkles or sliced almonds onto the surface starting at the narrow tip to imitate pinecone scales.
- → Can I substitute almond slices for another topping?
Yes, chocolate sprinkles or sunflower seeds work well as alternatives depending on taste and allergy considerations.
- → What is the ideal baking temperature and time?
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10 to 12 minutes until edges are lightly golden and centers are set.
- → How can I add a festive touch to these treats?
Dust with powdered sugar for a snowy appearance or dip the base in melted chocolate once cooled.
- → Are these treats suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, they contain no meat or animal-derived gelatin, making them suitable for a vegetarian diet.