Hitting the trail is pure exhilaration - fresh air, breathtaking views, and the thrill of exploring new terrain. But let's face it - even the most epic adventure can quickly go downhill if your stomach starts growling. Packing the right bites keeps your energy levels up, your mood high, and your focus sharp, ensuring you conquer that summit with a smile.
Trail mix can get a bit... predictable. Those store-bought bags often contain a mishmash of questionable ingredients - sugary cereal bits, dehydrated marshmallows (where'd the real ones go?), and maybe a rogue raisin or two. While they might provide a quick burst of energy, they leave you wanting something more – something delicious, nutritious, and exciting for your taste buds.
Say goodbye to store-bought mediocrity and discover how to create the ultimate trail mix masterpiece that will fuel your outdoor adventures with delicious, nutritious ingredients. Join us on a journey to craft the perfect blend of sweet, salty, and everything in between for your taste buds.
Chunky Monkey Trail Mix
Not just an ice cream flavor anymore, Chunky Monkey translates perfectly to trail mix recipes, too!
INGREDIENTS
1 cup dried banana chips
1 cup unsweetened coconut strips
3/4 cup dried pineapple chunks
1 cup roasted salted cashews
1 cup milk or dark chocolate peanuts
1/2 cup yogurt covered dried cranberries
INSTRUCTIONS
Toss all the ingredients together in a large bowl.
Store in an airtight container at room temperature.
Reece’s Trail Mix
No special skills required to make this trail mix recipe. Only tools needed are a set of measuring cups and a mixing bowl.
INGREDIENTS
1 cup shelled pumpkin seeds roasted and salted
1/2 cup sunflower seeds roasted and salted
1/2 cup sweetened coconut flakes
3/4 cup raisins
1/2 cup red-skinned Spanish nuts
3/4 cup Reece’s pieces
INSTRUCTIONS
Stir together all ingredients in a large bowl.
Store at room temperature in an air-tight container.
Source: https://www.cookingbride.com
Maple Cheddar Trail Mix
I love a unique twist on a classic hiking snack, and this Maple Cheddar Trail Mix is definitely delicious and different!
INGREDIENTS
1/2 cup pecans (raw)
1/2 cup almonds (raw)
1 1/2 Tbsp olive oil or coconut oil
1 Tbsp maple syrup
1/4 tsp salt
1 cup cheddar crackers (such as Cheese-Its or Goldfish)
1/2 cup cheddar sesame sticks*
1/3 cup raisins or dried cranberries
INSTRUCTIONS
Preheat the oven to 325°F.
Add the pecans, almonds, oil, maple syrup, and salt to a bowl and mix well.
Spread the nuts in an even layer on a bare baking sheet (no parchment paper).
Bake for 10 minutes.
Remove from the oven, and immediately use a spatula to toss the nuts. Then, let them cool completely.
Once the nuts are completely cool, mix with the rest of the ingredients and store the trail mix in an airtight container. This trail mix is best if consumed within 2-3 days.
Source: https://www.amandaoutside.com/
Kid’s Trail Mix
If you’re looking for a classic M&M trail mix recipe, this is it! With mixed nuts, crunchy candy-coated chocolate, and raisins, this is one of those crowd-pleasing trail mix recipes hungry snackers won’t be able to get enough of.
INGREDIENTS
1 cup cashew halves , or nut of choice
1 cup peanuts , or nut of choice
½ cup almonds
1 cup raisins or dried cranberries
½ cup M&M's
INSTRUCTIONS
In a large bowl, stir the cashews, peanuts, almonds, raisins and M&M's until combined.
Store trail mix in a mason jar or zip-top bag
Source: https://www.iheartnaptime.net/
Nut-Free Trail Mix
When nuts are off the table, your trail mix doesn’t have to be! This delicious nut-free trail mix is full of hearty seeds, dried fruit like apricots & cranberries, and chocolate.
INGREDIENTS
1/4 cup maple syrup
1/8 tsp salt
1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
1/2 cup shelled pumpkin seeds
1/2 cup roasted shelled sunflower seeds
1/3 cup dried cranberries
1/3 cup golden raisins
6 dried apricots, chopped into smaller pieces
1/4 cup allergen-free chocolate chips or chunks (i.e. Enjoy Life)
INSTRUCTIONS
Prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper. Set aside.
Add the maple syrup to a small pot over medium heat. When it starts to bubble, stir in the salt and pumpkin pie spice. Reduce heat to medium low, and add the pumpkin seeds and sunflower seeds.
Continue to cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring often. Be sure to watch this closely as it’s a fine line between a nice maple coating and burning the mix. When there appears to be no more “extra” syrup in the pot and everything is sticking to the seeds, remove from heat and pour the mixture onto the parchment paper. Let cool.
Once cool, the seeds should have a firm glaze on the outside. Break apart any clusters as needed, and mix in a bowl with the remainder of the ingredients. Enjoy!
Source: https://www.dairyfreefrobaby.com
Trail Mix Hacks: Tips & Tricks for the Perfect Mix
Here are some additional tips to keep in mind when choosing your trail snacks:
Be mindful of allergies: Double-check ingredient lists and avoid anything you might have a reaction to.
Consider shelf-life: Opt for snacks that won't melt in the heat or get soggy in your backpack.
Don't forget the taste factor: You're going to be eating these snacks on the trail, so choose things you actually enjoy!
Pack a variety: This helps prevent boredom and ensures you're getting a good mix of nutrients.
Think about portion sizes: Pack just enough for your hike without overloading your backpack.
Remember, the perfect trail snack is the one that keeps you fueled, happy, and ready to conquer the trail. So, experiment, find what works best for you, and get ready to create awesome trail memories – one delicious bite at a time!
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