Trail mix is a simple and delicious snack that combines nuts, seeds, dried fruits, and sometimes chocolate or candy. It’s an easy, grab-and-go treat, perfect for a quick energy boost during hikes or workouts. Making your own trail mix lets you customize the ingredients to suit your tastes or dietary needs.
This recipe is a great option for a healthy, satisfying snack. Whether you prefer sweet or savory, trail mix offers a variety of flavors and nutrients. You can adjust the proportions and mix-ins based on your preferences, creating a snack that’s both delicious and nutritious.

Why You’ll Love This Trail Mix Recipe
This trail mix recipe is loaded with healthy fats, protein, and fiber, making it a great energy booster. The combination of nuts, seeds, and dried fruits provides essential vitamins and minerals, helping you stay energized all day long.
Whether you’re hiking, working, or just need a snack at home, this trail mix fits any moment. It’s easy to carry, store, and enjoy, giving you a convenient and tasty snack wherever you go.
mix is how flexible it is. You can add or swap ingredients based on what you like, making it as sweet or salty as you desire. It’s all about creating your perfect blend!
This recipe comes together in minutes, without any complicated steps. Just mix the ingredients and you’re ready to enjoy a delicious snack that’s both satisfying and healthy.
Ingredient Notes for a Trail Mix Recipe
- Almonds: Packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats, almonds provide a crunchy texture and help keep you full longer. They’re rich in vitamin E, which is great for skin health.
- Walnuts: Walnuts are loaded with omega-3 fatty acids, which support brain health and heart function. They add a slightly bitter taste, balancing the sweetness of other ingredients.
- Dried Cranberries: These sweet and tart berries are full of antioxidants, promoting a healthy immune system. They also add a chewy texture to your trail mix.
- Raisins: Raisins offer a natural sweetness along with fiber and iron. They are a great source of quick energy, making them an excellent choice for a trail snack.
- Dark Chocolate Chips: Dark chocolate is rich in antioxidants and provides a satisfying sweetness. It also boosts mood and energy, making your trail mix a treat for both the body and mind.
- Sunflower Seeds: These seeds are a good source of vitamin E and magnesium. They provide a nutty flavor and crunchy texture, along with healthy fats that are heart-healthy.
- Pumpkin Seeds: High in protein and zinc, pumpkin seeds support immune health. They have a slightly sweet, nutty flavor and add a nice crunch to your mix.
Pre-preparation of Trail Mix Recipe
While trail mix is super easy to make, pre-preparation is key to creating the perfect blend. You’ll want to ensure all your ingredients are ready and chopped if necessary. This includes:
- Chopping nuts or fruits: For ease of eating, chop larger nuts or dried fruits into bite-sized pieces.
- Portioning ingredients: Measure out each ingredient carefully to maintain balance and flavor.
- Choose your favorite add-ins: Feel free to personalize your trail mix with chocolate, spices, or other elements to suit your taste.
How to make Trail Mix Recipe
Ingredients
Now, let’s talk about what goes into the perfect trail mix. This recipe blends energy-boosting nuts, sweet dried fruits, and a hint of chocolate for a balanced snack.
- 1 cup almonds
- 1 cup walnuts
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup raisins
- 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup sunflower seeds
- 1/4 cup pumpkin seeds
Directions
Here’s how to put everything together:
- Measure out your ingredients: Use measuring cups to ensure you have the right amount of each ingredient.
- Chop nuts and dried fruits (if necessary): Chop any large nuts or dried fruits into bite-sized pieces.
- Mix everything in a bowl: Add all the ingredients into a large mixing bowl.
- Stir well: Use a spoon or spatula to combine everything evenly.
- Store in an airtight container: Once mixed, transfer your trail mix to an airtight container to keep it fresh.
Trail Mix Recipe Variation
Feel free to experiment with different ingredients based on your taste. Here are some variations you can try:
- Tropical Trail Mix: Add dried pineapple, coconut flakes, and macadamia nuts for a tropical twist.
- Protein Boost: Add a scoop of your favorite protein powder or a handful of pumpkin seeds to boost the protein content.
- Sweet and Salty: Mix in pretzels or a handful of chocolate-covered almonds for a fun, sweet, and salty flavor.
How to Serve Trail Mix Recipe
Trail mix is an incredibly versatile snack. Here are a few serving ideas:
- On-the-Go: Pack individual servings into small bags or containers for easy, portable snacks.
- With Yogurt: Top a bowl of yogurt with trail mix for an added crunch and extra flavor.
- As a Salad Topping: Add some trail mix to your salad for a nutty, sweet crunch.
- Energy Bars: Mix it with oats and honey to form energy bars. Press it into a baking dish, refrigerate, and cut into squares for a homemade treat.
Storage Options
To keep your trail mix fresh, follow these storage options:
- Airtight Container: Store trail mix in an airtight container to preserve its freshness. Keep it in a cool, dry place to prevent the nuts from getting stale.
- Refrigeration: If you live in a hot climate or want to preserve it for a longer time, consider storing the trail mix in the refrigerator.
- Freezer: You can freeze trail mix for up to three months. Just be sure to use a freezer-safe bag or container.
FAQs About Trail Mix Recipe
Can I make trail mix without nuts?
Yes, you can make nut-free trail mix by using seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds. You can also add pretzels or whole-grain cereals for crunch.
Is trail mix healthy?
Trail mix can be healthy when made with nutritious ingredients like nuts and dried fruit. However, be mindful of portion sizes, as it can be calorie-dense.
How do I store trail mix?
Store trail mix in an airtight container to keep it fresh. It can last for up to a week at room temperature or longer in the fridge.
Can I customize my trail mix recipe?
Absolutely! You can customize your trail mix with your favorite ingredients, such as different nuts, seeds, or even adding a sweet element like coconut flakes.