Homemade Trail Mix
A simple, wholesome trail mix combining nuts and dried fruits for a protein-rich, fiber-filled snack. Quick to prepare, easy to store, and perfect for on-the-go energy or a healthy midday boost.
Equipment
- 1 large mixing bowl
- 1 airtight storage container
- 1 measuring cup
Ingredients
- 2 cups mixed nuts almonds, pecans, walnuts, cashews, or pre-mixed variety
- 1 cup raisins or preferred dried fruit
- 1 cup dried apricots chopped into quarters
- Optional: additional dried fruits like blueberries cherries, or coconut flakes
Instructions
- Prepare Your Workspace: Begin by clearing a clean, spacious area in your kitchen. Gather all the ingredients and equipment listed—nuts, dried fruits, a large mixing bowl, and a measuring cup. Ensuring your workspace is organized makes the process smoother and prevents any spills or mistakes while mixing.
- Measure the Nuts: Using a measuring cup, carefully measure out 2 cups of your preferred nuts. You can choose a combination of almonds, pecans, walnuts, cashews, or even a pre-mixed bag of raw nuts. This variety not only adds flavor and texture but also ensures a balance of healthy fats, protein, and fiber.
- Prepare the Dried Fruits: Next, measure 1 cup of raisins and 1 cup of dried apricots. Chop the apricots into quarters for easier mixing and better distribution throughout the trail mix. If you want, you can include other dried fruits such as blueberries, cherries, or coconut flakes to customize the flavor and nutritional profile.
- Combine Ingredients in Bowl: Place all measured nuts and dried fruits into the large mixing bowl. Take a moment to gently toss the ingredients together with clean hands or a spoon. Ensure that the nuts and fruits are evenly distributed so that each serving of trail mix contains a balanced mix of flavors and textures.
- Taste and Adjust (Optional): At this stage, taste a small portion of your trail mix to check for flavor and texture. If you prefer a slightly sweeter mix, consider adding a few extra dried fruits. For added crunch, you can sprinkle in a handful of seeds such as pumpkin or sunflower seeds.
- Store Properly for Freshness: Once your trail mix is well combined, transfer it to an airtight container. Storing in a sealed container prevents moisture from affecting the crunchiness of the nuts and keeps the dried fruits fresh. Label the container with the date so you know how long it has been stored.
- Serve and Enjoy Anytime: Your trail mix is now ready to enjoy! Scoop a handful into a small bowl for a quick snack, pack it in a lunchbox, or take it with you on a hike for an energizing boost. This mix is perfect for snacking anytime you need protein, fiber, and healthy fats to keep you satisfied.
- Tips for Longevity: For longer storage, keep the container in a cool, dark pantry. If you live in a warm climate, storing the trail mix in the refrigerator can extend its shelf life and maintain freshness. Avoid exposure to direct sunlight or heat, which can cause nuts to go rancid more quickly.
Notes
- This trail mix is highly versatile; you can adjust the types and amounts of nuts or dried fruits based on personal preference, seasonal availability, or dietary needs.
- For an extra nutritional boost, consider adding seeds like pumpkin, sunflower, or chia. These increase protein, healthy fats, and fiber content.
- When chopping dried fruits, aim for uniform sizes so that each bite has a balanced combination of flavors and textures.
- Use fresh, high-quality nuts for the best taste and crunch. Avoid nuts that have been sitting on the shelf too long, as they can become rancid.
- This recipe is perfect for meal prep—make a large batch and portion it into smaller containers or snack bags for easy grab-and-go options throughout the week.
