Pin 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.
This recipe has become a favorite in our home during winter holidays, sparking joy as we shape each cookie together.
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.
Pin Baking these cookies created lovely family moments, with everyone participating in shaping and decorating.
Notes
For a chocolatey twist, dip the base of each cookie in melted chocolate and let set. 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: 140 calories, 8 grams total fat, 15 grams carbohydrates, 3 grams protein.
Pin These cookies offer a delightful blend of flavor and festive fun that makes every holiday special.
Recipe FAQ
- → How do I achieve the pinecone shape?
Shape small ovals from the dough tapering one end, then press chocolate sprinkles or almond slices at an angle to mimic pinecone scales, working upward from the tapered end.
- → Can I substitute almond slices for decoration?
Yes, almond slices can be swapped with chocolate sprinkles or sunflower seeds to create the pinecone scale effect, accommodating nut allergies if needed.
- → What is the best way to store these treats?
Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week to maintain freshness and texture.
- → Can these be made dairy-free?
Replacing butter with a dairy-free alternative is possible, but it might slightly alter the texture and richness of the final treats.
- → How do I add a festive touch after baking?
Lightly dust with powdered sugar for a snowy effect or dip the base in melted chocolate for extra decadence.