The holidays are a whirlwind of activity, but that doesn't mean you should sacrifice delicious and healthy snacks! This Holiday Trail Mix recipe is perfect for busy festive seasons. It's incredibly easy to make, customizable to your liking, and guaranteed to satisfy those sweet and salty cravings. It's a great homemade gift idea, too! Whether you need a quick snack for yourself or a delightful treat to share with friends and family, this recipe delivers on taste and convenience. Get ready to embark on a flavorful journey with this simple yet satisfying recipe, perfect for adding a festive touch to your holiday gatherings.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup dried cranberries (or a mix of dried cranberries, cherries, and blueberries)
- 1 cup roasted and salted peanuts
- 1 cup cashews (or your favorite nuts)
- 1/2 cup pumpkin seeds (pepitas)
- 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips (or white chocolate chips for a different flavor profile)
- 1/4 cup pretzels, roughly chopped
- 1/4 cup mini marshmallows (optional, for extra sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
Instructions:
- Prep the Ingredients: Begin by measuring out all your ingredients. Make sure your nuts and seeds are dry. If using pretzels, break them into smaller, bite-sized pieces.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the dried cranberries, peanuts, cashews, pumpkin seeds, chocolate chips, pretzels, and marshmallows (if using).
- Add Spices: Add the cinnamon and nutmeg to the mix. Gently toss everything together until the spices are evenly distributed.
- Mix Thoroughly: Use a large spoon or your hands to ensure all the ingredients are well combined.
- Store and Serve: Transfer the trail mix to an airtight container. This helps maintain its freshness. Store it in a cool, dry place. Your delicious holiday trail mix is ready to be enjoyed!
Cooking Tips for Perfect Holiday Trail Mix:
- Customize Your Mix: Feel free to experiment with different ingredients! Add other nuts, seeds, dried fruits, or even candy pieces to create your perfect blend. Think chopped candied ginger for a spicy kick, or coconut flakes for added texture.
- Toast the Nuts: For an extra layer of flavor, consider lightly toasting your nuts and seeds in a dry skillet before adding them to the mix. Just watch them carefully to prevent burning.
- Portion Control: To avoid overeating, portion your trail mix into individual snack bags for easy grab-and-go snacks. This is also ideal for packing lunches or sharing with others.
- Make it Ahead: This recipe is fantastic for making ahead of time. The flavors will actually meld together nicely over a couple of days, enhancing the overall taste experience.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving – 1/4 cup):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300 (depending on specific ingredients)
- Fat: 15-20g
- Protein: 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
- Fiber: 3-5g
Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
Variations:
- Spicy Holiday Trail Mix: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped chili flakes for a spicy twist.
- Tropical Holiday Trail Mix: Replace some of the nuts with macadamia nuts and add dried mango or pineapple chunks.
- Chocolate Lover's Trail Mix: Increase the amount of chocolate chips and add some chocolate-covered pretzels.
This holiday trail mix is a simple recipe that offers a delightful blend of sweet, salty, and crunchy elements. It's the perfect healthy snack for parties, road trips, or any occasion! Enjoy the festive flavors and happy snacking!