Autumn Trail Mix Recipe
If you’re looking for a snack that truly celebrates the cozy flavors and vibrant colors of fall, you can’t go wrong with Autumn Trail Mix. This delightful medley blends roasted pumpkin seeds, sweet dried cranberries, crunchy pretzels, honey-roasted peanuts, tart apple chips, and decadent chocolate and butterscotch morsels, all tied together with a hint of cinnamon. It’s the perfect snack to bring a bit of harvest magic to your hikes, parties, lunchboxes, or lazy afternoons with a hot mug of cider.
Ingredients You’ll Need
-
Roasted Pumpkin Seeds:
1 cup
Dried Cranberries:
1 cup
Candy-Coated Chocolate Pieces:
1 cup
Mini Pretzels:
1 cup
Honey-Roasted Peanuts:
1 cup
Dried Apple Chips:
1/2 cup
Butterscotch Chips or White Chocolate Chips:
1/2 cup
Ground Cinnamon (optional):
1/2 teaspoon
How to Make Autumn Trail Mix
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
Start by lining up all the ingredients on your kitchen counter, measuring them out so everything is ready to go. A little prep makes assembling this Autumn Trail Mix a breeze, and you’ll ensure the right balance of flavors in each bite.
Step 2: Combine the Crunchy and Chewy Elements
In a large mixing bowl, toss in the roasted pumpkin seeds, dried cranberries, mini pretzels, honey-roasted peanuts, and dried apple chips. These are your foundation flavors, bringing together salty, sweet, tart, and nutty all at once.
Step 3: Add the Sweet Touches
Pour in the candy-coated chocolate pieces and butterscotch or white chocolate chips. Gently mix them in so they’re evenly distributed. These morsels add little pockets of creamy sweetness and make every handful of Autumn Trail Mix irresistible.
Step 4: Sprinkle with Cinnamon (Optional)
If you’re falling hard for those autumn spices, now’s the time to sprinkle in the ground cinnamon. Use a gentle hand—just a dusting will warm up the flavors and make the room smell like a cozy fall afternoon.
Step 5: Toss and Store
Using a big spoon or even your hands, gently toss the mixture until all the ingredients are well combined. Transfer to an airtight container to keep the mix fresh and crunchy. Now you’re stocked with a festive snack that’ll stay delicious for up to two weeks.
How to Serve Autumn Trail Mix
Garnishes
Enhance your Autumn Trail Mix with a handful of golden raisins for extra chewy sweetness, or a light dusting of powdered sugar to make it look like the first snowfall of the season. For a sophisticated touch, a few curls of orange zest can add both aroma and a pop of color.
Side Dishes
Pair this mix with crisp apple slices and cubes of sharp cheddar cheese for a balanced snack board. It also makes a perfect companion to spiced apple cider, pumpkin beer, or a thermos of coffee when you’re lounging fireside or hitting the trails.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, pour your Autumn Trail Mix into mason jars tied with tartan ribbon or fill small paper cones for a rustic, grab-and-go presentation. You can even layer it in clear treat bags as a homemade gift for teachers, coworkers, or neighbors to spread some fall cheer.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any remaining trail mix in a tightly sealed, airtight container at room temperature, away from heat and humidity. This keeps the mix fresh, crunchy, and tasty for up to two weeks—if it lasts that long!
Freezing
While Autumn Trail Mix is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze it if needed. Place in freezer-safe zip-top bags with as much air removed as possible; store for up to 2 months. Let it come back to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
Reheating
Reheating isn’t necessary for trail mix, but if you love an extra-warm, fragrant touch, spread a serving on a baking sheet and pop it in a low oven (about 250°F) for 5-7 minutes. The flavors will mingle and the chips might get a little melty for a treat that’s almost dessert-like.
FAQs
Can I make Autumn Trail Mix nut-free?
Absolutely! Swap the honey-roasted peanuts for roasted sunflower seeds or additional pumpkin seeds. You’ll keep all the crunch and flavor without any nuts.
Can I customize with other ingredients?
Definitely! Try adding toasted pecans, dried figs, maple granola, or even coconut flakes. The fun of Autumn Trail Mix is making it your own, so feel free to get creative with your favorite fall flavors.
Is this trail mix suitable for kids?
Yes, it’s a favorite with little hands thanks to the sweet-and-salty profile and festive pops of color. Just be aware of any food allergies and adjust accordingly for safe snacking.
How can I make this mix a bit healthier?
Reduce the candy or butterscotch chips and increase the dried fruits and seeds. You’ll still get loads of flavor and plenty of energy-boosting nutrients in every handful.
Can I make Autumn Trail Mix ahead for a party?
Absolutely! Prepare it up to a week in advance and store in an airtight container. Portion into bowls or jars just before serving to maintain freshness and crunch.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re packing up snacks for a weekend hike or searching for the perfect fall party treat, Autumn Trail Mix is always a crowd-pleaser. I can’t wait for you to try it—don’t be surprised if it becomes your new favorite way to welcome the cozy season!
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Autumn Trail Mix Recipe
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Autumn Trail Mix is a delightful combination of sweet, salty, and crunchy flavors, making it a perfect snack for the fall season. Packed with pumpkin seeds, dried fruits, chocolate, and more, it’s easy to make and great for parties or on-the-go munching.
Ingredients
Roasted Pumpkin Seeds:
1 cup
Dried Cranberries:
1 cup
Candy-Coated Chocolate Pieces:
1 cup
Mini Pretzels:
1 cup
Honey-Roasted Peanuts:
1 cup
Dried Apple Chips:
1/2 cup
Butterscotch Chips or White Chocolate Chips:
1/2 cup
Ground Cinnamon (optional):
1/2 teaspoon
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine pumpkin seeds, dried cranberries, candy-coated chocolate, mini pretzels, honey-roasted peanuts, dried apple chips, and butterscotch chips. Add ground cinnamon if desired. Toss gently to mix well.
- Store: Store the trail mix in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
Notes
- Customize the mix with additional fall add-ins like dried figs, pecans, or maple granola.
- For a nut-free option, swap peanuts with sunflower seeds.
- This trail mix is a versatile snack perfect for parties or as a lunchbox treat in autumn.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/10 of recipe
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 160mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 2mg
