Do you have a go-to snack? I think just about everybody has something that they turn to when they need something quick to eat. The things I tend to reach for when I want a healthy snack are string cheese, berries, and trail mix. What I reach for when I don’t care if I’m being healthy or not is a topic for another day.
Ode to Trail Mix
There are lots of reasons to love trail mix. For one thing, it’s quick to make and serve. If you can carve out 5 minutes in your day then you have time to make trail mix. Literally all you have to do is dump all the ingredients in a bowl and toss them together. And you actually don’t have to measure anything if you don’t want to. I list measurements in this recipe to give you an idea of the ratios I prefer, but if you are in a hurry it won’t hurt anything to just throw some stuff in will-nilly.
Another reason to love trail mix is that it is highly customizable. You can make it sweet or savory, depending on your tastebuds. This is my favorite combination of goodies, but there are so many other things you could add or substitute, like:
- Peanuts, walnuts, or pecans
- Sunflower or pumpkin seeds
- Raisins, dried cherries, banana chips, dehydrated pineapple or apples
- Cheerios, Chex, or other dry cereal
- M&M’s, Reese’s Pieces, milk, white, or semi-sweet chocolate chips
- Wasabi peas, if you like some heat
- Seasonings and spices, such as extra salt, garlic powder, ranch mix, or red pepper flakes
I also like that it’s super portable. Since this particular combination is peanut-free, I pack it in little single-serving sized containers to send to school for snack time, and I often throw a half-pint jar of it in my bag for when I know I’ll be gone past lunch time to stave off those hangry feelings.
And in case you were wondering, if I don’t care if my snack is healthy or not I make a similar (but decidedly sweeter) snack: White Chocolate Cranberries & Pretzels.
What’s your favorite trail mix combo?
- 3 cups pretzels
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- 1 cup salted cashews
- 1 cup sliced almonds
- 3/4 cup dark chocolate chips
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Measure all ingredients into a large mixing bowl and stir to combine. Store in an airtight container.
Yum, I love trail mix. I’ll have to make this for sure. I love having an easy snack nearby.
Me too! I tend to get hangry, so a fast snack is imperative for me staying a nice person 🙂
I love trail mix and I’ve never made it before. I need to try this! Love all the options you can add to change it up.
Yes, the options are nearly limitless!
I love it even if I’ve never made this before. Thanks for sharing!
You’re welcome! Hope you get a chance to try it soon!
With Trail mix, the options are endless. You can make it however you want. So great for road trips and flying.
Yes, this is the best road trip snack!
I need to make our own trail mix. It’s more affordable and such a healthy and easy snack. I love pretzels, so I’m excited to try this one!
It’s definitely more affordable.