Parmesan Pine Cone
Transform your holiday table or party spread with this elegantly rustic Parmesan Pine Cone—a stunning cheese-based appetizer that's as delicious as it is visually impressive. This no-cook recipe combines creamy cheese, finely grated Parmesan, garlic, and chives for a burst of savory flavor, perfectly balanced with the satisfying crunch of toasted almonds. Arranged to mimic the shape of a pine cone, it makes a striking centerpiece, complete with fresh rosemary for that natural, evergreen touch. With just 20 minutes of prep time, this easy-to-make dish is perfect for entertaining, pairing beautifully with crackers or slices of crusty bread. Whether you're hosting a festive gathering or simply looking to elevate your appetizer game, the Parmesan Pine Cone is sure to wow your guests!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 8 ounces cream cheese
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, finely grated
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 0.5 teaspoon paprika (optional, for color)
- 2 tablespoons fresh chives, finely chopped
- 1.5 cups whole almonds, toasted
- 1 sprig sprig of fresh rosemary
- 1 package crackers or bread slices (for serving)
Instructions
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika (if using), and chopped chives. Mix well until the ingredients are fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth.
Transfer the cheese mixture onto a large sheet of plastic wrap. Shape it into a rough oval resembling the form of a pine cone. Wrap the shaped mixture tightly in the plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up.
Once firm, unwrap the cheese mixture and transfer it to a serving plate.
Starting from the base of the oval, gently press each almond into the cheese mixture so that the narrow end of the almond sticks out slightly, mimicking the scales of a pine cone. Work your way row by row until the entire surface is covered with almonds.
Add the sprig of fresh rosemary at the top of the pine cone to resemble pine needles, if desired.
Serve the Parmesan Pine Cone with crackers or bread slices for scooping. Enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
426 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 30.7 g | 39% | |
| Saturated Fat | 10.8 g | 54% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 39 mg | 13% | |
| Sodium | 452 mg | 20% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 23.5 g | 9% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 3.2 g | 11% | |
| Total Sugars | 2.7 g | ||
| Protein | 15.3 g | 31% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.2 mcg | 1% | |
| Calcium | 313 mg | 24% | |
| Iron | 1.4 mg | 8% | |
| Potassium | 244 mg | 5% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
