This homemade trail mix offers a perfectly customizable and healthy adult snack, ideal for boosting your energy throughout the day. You’ll love how simple it is to create a delicious and nutritious treat that avoids unhealthy additives.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Pumpkin Seeds: Essential for this specific trail mix; use raw or roasted.
- Nuts: Almonds, walnuts, cashews are great; use your favorites or what you have.
- Dried Fruit: Raisins, cranberries, apricots add sweetness; ensure they are unsweetened if possible.
- Optional Add-ins: Dark chocolate chips, coconut flakes for extra flavor.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup raw pumpkin seeds
- 1 cup mixed nuts (e.g., almonds, cashews, walnuts)
- ½ cup dried cranberries or raisins
- ¼ cup dark chocolate chips (optional)
- ¼ cup unsweetened shredded coconut (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Servings: 4-6
- Calories per serving: Approximately 250-300 (depending on ingredients)
- Tools Needed: Large mixing bowl, measuring cups.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Gather Your Ingredients
Collect all the pumpkin seeds, nuts, and dried fruit you plan to use. Having everything ready makes assembly quick and easy for your healthy adult snack.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients
Pour the pumpkin seeds and mixed nuts into a large mixing bowl. Stir them gently to distribute evenly.
3. Add Dried Fruit and Optional Mix-ins
Toss in the dried cranberries or raisins. If you’re using dark chocolate chips or shredded coconut, add them now.
4. Mix Thoroughly
Stir all the ingredients together until everything is well combined. This ensures you get a good variety in every scoop of your healthy adult snack.
5. Enjoy or Store
Your homemade trail mix is ready to enjoy immediately. You’ve just created a perfect healthy adult snack.
Variation Ideas:
- Add different seeds like sunflower or chia seeds.
- Include puffed rice cereal for extra crunch.
- Try different dried fruits such as dried mango or pineapple chunks.
- A pinch of cinnamon or a dash of sea salt can enhance flavors.
Storage Instructions:
Store your homemade trail mix in an airtight container at room temperature. It will stay fresh for up to two weeks, making it a convenient healthy adult snack option. Keep it away from direct sunlight or heat to maintain freshness.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Q: Can you roast the pumpkin seeds yourself?
A: Yes, you can roast raw pumpkin seeds at 300°F (150°C) for 10-15 minutes until lightly golden.
Q: Is this trail mix suitable for kids?
A: Absolutely! This healthy adult snack is also great for children, offering nutritious ingredients.
Q: Can you make a large batch for meal prep?
A: Yes, this recipe scales easily. Double or triple the ingredients for a week’s worth of healthy adult snacks.
Q: What if you don’t like nuts?
A: You can omit nuts and increase the amount of seeds, dried fruit, or other crunchy ingredients like pretzels.
Q: How can you make this lower in calories?
A: Reduce the amount of dried fruit and chocolate, and focus on seeds and unsalted nuts.
Q: Are there any sugar-free dried fruit options?
A: Look for dried fruits with no added sugar; many brands offer these in health food sections.
