Save to Pinterest 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 brings smiles at family celebrations and is surprisingly easy to prepare.
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 to Pinterest These clusters are a hit during holiday gatherings and remind me of cozy winter afternoons spent with family.
Notes
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 to Pinterest Enjoy crafting these delightful clusters that bring festive cheer and delicious flavor to your table.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I substitute the nuts used in these clusters?
Yes, you can replace almonds and pecans with walnuts or hazelnuts, maintaining the crunch and flavor.
- → Is it necessary to use both dark and milk chocolate?
Using both chocolates creates a balanced sweetness and depth of flavor, but you can use just one type if preferred.
- → How should I store the clusters to keep them fresh?
Store in an airtight container at cool room temperature, away from humidity, for up to one week.
- → What is the best way to melt the chocolate evenly?
Melt chocolate gently over simmering water or in short microwave bursts, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
- → Can I make the clusters gluten-free?
Yes, by using gluten-free cornflake cereal, the clusters remain suitable for gluten-free diets.