Save 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.
Making these cookies is always a joy because my family loves the unique pinecone shape and the peanut butter taste brings everyone 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 1012 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 Baking these cookies together has become a cherished family tradition with lots of laughter and holiday spirit.
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
Allergen Information
Contains peanuts eggs wheat (gluten) and dairy (butter). Almonds are optional but may pose a tree nut allergy risk. Always check ingredient labels for hidden allergens if serving to guests with food sensitivities.
Save Enjoy the whimsical shape and nutty flavor of these delightful cookies fresh from your oven.
Recipe FAQ
- → How do I achieve the pinecone shape?
Shape dough into small ovals tapering one end, then press chocolate sprinkles or almond slices at an angle to mimic scales.
- → Can I substitute the almonds for decoration?
Yes, sunflower seeds or chocolate sprinkles work well as alternatives for the pinecone scales.
- → What baking temperature and time are recommended?
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes until cookies are set and lightly golden.
- → How can I add a festive touch?
Optionally dust with powdered sugar for a snowy effect or dip bases in melted chocolate for a richer finish.
- → Are these suitable for vegetarian diets?
Yes, these treats contain no meat products and are suitable for vegetarians.