Spring has sprung, and Easter is just around the corner! Are you looking for a fun, healthy, and easy snack to enjoy during your Easter celebrations? Look no further! This Easter trail mix recipe is perfect for both kids and adults, and it’s so simple to make. It’s the ideal homemade cooking project, offering a delicious alternative to store-bought treats. This quick dinner idea (or rather, quick snack idea!) is packed with flavor and fun, making it a perfect addition to your Easter basket or a delightful treat to share with family and friends. Get ready to embark on a culinary adventure with this easy recipe!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup mini chocolate chips
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- 1 cup mixed nuts (almonds, cashews, pecans)
- ½ cup mini marshmallows
- ½ cup pastel-colored M&Ms (or other Easter-themed candies)
- ¼ cup shredded coconut (optional, for added texture)
- 2 tablespoons sunflower seeds (optional, for added healthy fats)
Instructions:
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Gather your ingredients: Lay out all your ingredients in separate bowls for easy access. This simple step helps streamline the cooking process.
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Combine the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, gently combine the dried cranberries, mixed nuts, mini marshmallows, pastel M&Ms, shredded coconut (if using), and sunflower seeds (if using).
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Add the chocolate chips: Add the mini chocolate chips to the bowl.
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Mix everything together: Gently toss all the ingredients until they are evenly distributed. Avoid overmixing, as this can crush the marshmallows and nuts.
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Serve or store: Your Easter trail mix is ready to enjoy! You can serve it immediately or store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.
Tips for the Best Easter Trail Mix:
- Customize it: Feel free to experiment with different types of dried fruits, nuts, seeds, and candies. You can easily adapt this recipe to your preferences and dietary needs. Consider adding pretzels, yogurt-covered raisins, or even some chopped dried mango for extra flavor dimensions.
- Portion control: Pre-portion your trail mix into individual bags or containers for easy snacking and to prevent overeating. This is especially helpful for parties or Easter egg hunts.
- Make it ahead: This recipe is perfect for making ahead of time. Prepare it a few days before Easter to save time on the big day. This makes it an ideal element to incorporate into your Easter preparations.
Variations:
- Healthy Easter Trail Mix: Omit the chocolate chips and M&Ms for a healthier option. Substitute with more nuts, seeds, and dried fruits. Add a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra flavor. This variation provides a delicious and nutritious snack, perfect for those seeking healthy meal options.
- Nut-Free Easter Trail Mix: Substitute the nuts with pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, or other seed varieties for those with nut allergies. Always double-check ingredient labels to ensure they're nut-free.
- Gluten-Free Easter Trail Mix: Ensure that all your ingredients are certified gluten-free, as some candies and dried fruits may contain gluten.
Nutritional Information (per serving - approximate, will vary based on ingredients used):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used. It's always best to use a nutrition calculator with your exact ingredients for the most accurate information.
- Calories: Approximately 250-300 calories
- Protein: Approximately 5-7 grams
- Fat: Approximately 15-20 grams
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 25-30 grams
- Sugar: Approximately 10-15 grams
Enjoy this delightful Easter treat! This easy and delicious recipe is sure to be a hit at your Easter gathering. Happy Easter!