Cream Cheese Pine Cone
A festive and savory appetizer featuring cream cheese and almonds shaped like pine cones, perfect for holiday gatherings and loved by those who enjoy rich, crunchy flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Spread the almonds in a single layer on a cookie sheet.
- Bake at 300°F for 15 minutes, stirring often.
- Let the almonds cool.
- Combine the cream cheese, mayonnaise, crumbled bacon, chopped onion, dill weed, and pepper in a bowl.
- Cover and chill the mixture overnight.
- Form the chilled mixture into two pine cone shapes.
- Beginning at the narrow end, press almonds into the mixture at a slight angle in overlapping rows to resemble pine cones.
- Garnish each pine cone with a sprig of pine.
- Serve with crackers.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using smoked bacon instead of regular. You can substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise for a healthier option. If you want to add a bit of heat, try mixing in some finely chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. Make sure to let the mixture chill overnight for the best texture and flavor. This dish pairs beautifully with Quick And Easy Venison Sausage.
Serving Suggestions
These cream cheese pine cones make a delightful centerpiece for any appetizer spread. Serve them alongside a variety of crackers and fresh vegetables. They also pair well with a light salad or fruit platter for a balanced meal. Consider serving with a chilled beverage to enhance the experience, making it perfect for entertaining.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If the mixture becomes too soft, you can re-chill it before serving. For best results, avoid freezing, as it may alter the texture of the cream cheese. Serve cold with crackers for a refreshing snack.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cream Cheese Pine Cone contains roughly 215 calories, with 6g protein, 19g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (123% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (40% of the Daily Value), and iron (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and dietary fiber. It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cream cheese mixture a day in advance and let it chill overnight. Just shape it into pine cones and add the almonds right before serving for the best presentation.
What can I use instead of almonds?
If you have nut allergies or prefer a different flavor, you can use sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds as a substitute for almonds. They will still provide a nice crunch and visual appeal.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make the recipe vegetarian, simply omit the bacon and consider adding some finely chopped bell peppers or olives for extra flavor and texture. The dish will still be delicious without the meat.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).