Recipe: Almond Pinecone (with cream cheese)

ALMOND PINECONE

1 1/2 Cups almonds - toasted
1/2 Cup mayonnaise
8 oz cream cheese
5 slices bacon - cooked, minced
1 Tbsp. scallion
1/2 tsp dill (optional)
white pepper to taste
pine springs

Toast almonds and set aside. Combine all other ingredients in a bowl and mix well. Chill for at least 1 hour.

Form the cream cheese mixture into the shape of a pinecone. Beginning at the bottom, gently press the almonds in rows across the pinecone shape. Continue the rows until the whole shape is covered, and resembles a pinecone.

Either eat immediately or refrigerate. Allow to come up to room temperature before serving. Garnish with pine sprigs.

Serves 8.