Pin this I started making trail mix after realizing how much money I was spending on those little airport bags that never had quite what I wanted. One Sunday afternoon, I spread out jars of nuts and fruit on my counter and just started mixing. The kitchen smelled like a health food store, and I felt oddly powerful deciding exactly what went in. Now I keep a big container of it next to my keys, and it's saved me from countless vending machine disasters.
My niece calls this my magic bowl because I let her pick three things to add whenever she visits. Last time she chose banana chips, coconut, and way too many chocolate chips, and we ate it straight from the bowl while watching cartoons. She asked if we could sell it at her school bake sale, which might be the best compliment I've ever received. Now I make a batch before every family gathering because people actually request it.
Ingredients
- Raw almonds: I prefer raw because they stay crunchy longer, but roasted work if that's what you have on hand.
- Cashews: These add a buttery sweetness that balances the tartness of the dried fruit perfectly.
- Walnuts: They bring an earthy flavor and those good omega-3s everyone talks about.
- Pumpkin seeds: Pepitas add a nice green pop and a subtle nutty crunch that's different from the other nuts.
- Sunflower seeds: Small but mighty, they fill in the gaps and add texture to every bite.
- Dried cranberries: The tart kick wakes up your taste buds and keeps the mix from being too heavy.
- Dried apricots: Chop them small so you get a little piece of sunshine in more handfuls.
- Raisins: The classic for a reason, they add natural sweetness without being overwhelming.
- Dark chocolate chips: This is the reward hiding in every scoop, and dark chocolate feels almost healthy.
- Shredded coconut: Optional, but it adds a tropical vibe that makes you feel like you're eating better than you are.
- Banana chips: They bring a sweet crunch and remind me of childhood field trips.
- Yogurt-covered raisins: A little indulgent, but they make the whole thing feel like dessert.
Instructions
- Gather your ingredients:
- Pull out everything you're using and line them up on the counter. This is the fun part where you can swap things in or out based on what looks good to you.
- Combine in a large bowl:
- Dump all the nuts, seeds, dried fruit, and chocolate chips into your biggest mixing bowl. If you're adding optional ingredients, toss those in too.
- Mix it up:
- Use your hands or a big spoon to mix everything together, making sure the chocolate and fruit are distributed throughout. I use my hands because it's faster and more satisfying.
- Taste and adjust:
- Grab a handful and see if it needs more of anything. This is your mix, so make it exactly how you want it.
- Store properly:
- Transfer to an airtight container or several smaller ones for grab-and-go portions. It'll stay fresh at room temperature for up to two weeks, though mine never lasts that long.
Pin this I once packed this for a long drive and my friend kept reaching over from the passenger seat asking what was in it. By the time we arrived, she'd taken a photo of the ingredient list and texted it to herself. The next week she sent me a picture of her own version with pecans and dried mango, and now we trade combinations like recipes. It's become our thing.
Customization Ideas
The beauty of trail mix is that it bends to whatever you're craving or whatever's in your pantry. I've made batches with pecans and maple-glazed walnuts that tasted like fall in a bag. When I want something lighter, I skip the chocolate and add extra dried cherries and coconut. A friend of mine makes a savory version with smoked almonds, pretzels, and a dusting of ranch seasoning that disappears at parties. Let your mood and your cupboard guide you.
Storage and Portioning
I keep mine in a big glass jar on the counter because seeing it reminds me to actually eat it instead of reaching for chips. For portioning, I fill small reusable bags on Sunday nights so I can grab one on my way out the door all week. If you live somewhere humid, the chocolate can get soft and the coconut can get chewy, so a sealed container in a cool spot works better. Mason jars look nice and keep everything crisp.
Make It Your Own
This mix is a starting point, not a rulebook. I've added everything from cinnamon-roasted chickpeas to crystallized ginger depending on what I find at the store. My brother makes his with only seeds and dark chocolate because he doesn't like dried fruit, and it works perfectly for him. The best version is the one you'll actually eat.
- Try a pinch of sea salt or smoked paprika for a savory-sweet combo.
- Swap in white chocolate chips and dried blueberries for a sweeter take.
- Toast your nuts in a dry skillet for five minutes before mixing if you want deeper flavor.
Pin this Once you make your first batch, you'll wonder why you ever bought the pre-made stuff. This is the kind of recipe that gets better every time you make it because you learn what you love.
Recipe Questions
- → Can I prepare this mix in advance?
Yes, you can prepare trail mix up to 2 weeks in advance. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature to keep ingredients fresh and maintain optimal texture.
- → What substitutions work best for nuts?
Pecans and hazelnuts are excellent nut alternatives. You can also try macadamia nuts or Brazil nuts. Maintain roughly equal portions when substituting to balance flavors and textures.
- → How do I make this mix savory instead of sweet?
Replace or reduce dried fruits and chocolate chips, then add a pinch of sea salt or chili powder. Consider including savory elements like roasted chickpeas or pretzels for extra crunch.
- → Is this suitable for vegan diets?
Yes, this mix is naturally vegan when using dairy-free chocolate chips instead of regular chocolate. All nuts, seeds, and dried fruits are plant-based ingredients.
- → What allergens should I be aware of?
This mix contains tree nuts including almonds, cashews, and walnuts. Chocolate chips may contain soy or dairy. Always check ingredient labels and be cautious of potential cross-contamination with sunflower and pumpkin seeds.
- → Can I portion this into individual bags?
Absolutely. Divide the prepared mix into small bags or containers for convenient portable snacks. This method makes it easier to grab servings for travel or outdoor activities.