Healthy Sweet and Salty Trail Mix

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This trail mix is the ideal snack when you want something that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. It combines the heartiness of roasted cashews and almonds with the sweetness of dried banana chips and cranberries. The addition of crunchy oyster crackers and a sprinkle of semi-sweet chocolate chips adds a fun twist that perfectly balances the flavors. It’s a great option for on-the-go munching, whether you’re hiking, packing lunch for the day, or simply looking for a healthier alternative to store-bought snacks. Plus, it’s highly customizable, so feel free to tweak it based on your personal preferences!

Ingredients

• 1 cup roasted unsalted cashews
• 1 cup roasted almonds
• 1 cup dried banana chips
• 3/4 cup dried cranberries
• 1 cup oyster crackers
• 1/3 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the roasted cashews, roasted almonds, dried banana chips, dried cranberries, oyster crackers, and semi-sweet chocolate chips.
2. Gently toss the ingredients together until they are evenly mixed.
3. Transfer the trail mix to an airtight container or portion it into snack-sized bags for easy on-the-go enjoyment.
4. Store at room temperature for up to a week.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Approximately 6 servings
• Prep time: 5 minutes

Variations

• Add different nuts: Feel free to swap out cashews or almonds for other nuts like walnuts, pecans, or peanuts for variety.
• Use other dried fruits: You can mix in dried raisins, apricots, or cherries if you prefer different flavors.
• Add seeds: Add sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, or chia seeds for an extra crunch and nutritional boost.
• Go for dark chocolate: If you prefer dark chocolate, substitute semi-sweet chocolate chips with dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store your trail mix in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can refrigerate it for up to 2 weeks.
• Reheating: There’s no need to reheat trail mix. Enjoy it straight from the container as a quick and convenient snack.

FAQs

Can I use salted cashews or almonds instead of unsalted?

Yes, you can use salted nuts, but keep in mind it will make the trail mix a bit saltier. Adjust the amount of oyster crackers and chocolate chips if you want to balance the salty flavor.

Can I make this trail mix gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is already gluten-free as long as you ensure the oyster crackers you use are certified gluten-free. There are many gluten-free cracker options available at most stores.

Can I add coconut flakes to this trail mix?

Yes! Dried coconut flakes or shredded coconut would be a great addition to the mix. They’ll add a tropical flavor and extra texture.

Can I use other types of crackers besides oyster crackers?

Absolutely! You can substitute oyster crackers with other types of crackers, such as pretzel crisps or even whole wheat crackers for a different flavor.

Can I use dried pineapple instead of banana chips?

Yes, dried pineapple would make a wonderful replacement for banana chips. It will add a tangy sweetness to the mix.

How long will this trail mix stay fresh?

Stored in an airtight container, this trail mix can stay fresh for up to a week at room temperature. If you refrigerate it, it can last up to 2 weeks.

Can I make this trail mix ahead of time?

Yes! This trail mix is perfect for meal prep. You can make a large batch ahead of time and store it for easy access to snacks throughout the week.

Can I add protein to this trail mix?

For an extra protein boost, you can add roasted chickpeas, edamame, or even a scoop of your favorite protein powder mixed into the mix.

Is this trail mix good for kids?

Yes, this trail mix is great for kids as a healthy snack. The mix of nuts, dried fruits, and a little chocolate makes it both nutritious and fun to eat.

Can I make this trail mix in bulk for a party?

Definitely! This recipe is easy to scale up, and making a large batch is great for parties, picnics, or family gatherings. Just adjust the quantities accordingly.

Conclusion

This Healthy Sweet and Salty Trail Mix is the perfect snack for anyone looking to satisfy their cravings for something crunchy, sweet, and salty. It’s easy to prepare, portable, and highly customizable to suit your tastes. With a balance of nuts, dried fruits, crackers, and chocolate, this trail mix provides both energy and enjoyment. Whether you’re hiking, running errands, or simply need a midday snack, this trail mix is a delightful treat that everyone will love!

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