Autumn Trail Mix Recipe

If you’re searching for the ultimate snack to fuel your crisp-weather hikes, cozy movie marathons, or quick midday pick-me-ups, this Autumn Trail Mix will quickly become your favorite companion! It’s a vibrant blend bursting with crunchy nuts, sweet dried cranberries, creamy chocolate, spice-dusted pumpkin seeds, and crunchy pretzels, all mingling together in the most irresistible autumnal flavors. Not only is this snack a lifesaver on busy days, but it also captures the very essence of fall in every bite—making you want to pack an extra bag just in case!

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Autumn Trail Mix is just how easily these simple ingredients come together to create something magical! Each piece in the mix adds its own color, flavor, and even a bit of nostalgia to help embody everything we love about autumn.

• Roasted Pumpkin Seeds: These are the backbone of fall, adding a salty crunch and a subtle earthy flavor that pairs perfectly with sweet mix-ins.
• Dried Cranberries: Their tangy sweetness and jewel-like color brighten every handful.
• Pecans: Rich, buttery, and slightly sweet, these nuts lend a beautiful crunch and that classic autumn nuttiness.
• Mini Pretzels: A salty, crispy contrast to balance out the sweetness, and they bring the most satisfying bite.
• Dark Chocolate Chunks: For a luscious, bittersweet moment in every bite—you can use chocolate chips if you prefer!
• Dried Apple Slices: Chewy and tart, these slices bring a taste of the orchard right to your snack mix.
• Cinnamon: A dusting of cinnamon infuses the mix with cozy spice notes that absolutely scream autumn.

How to Make Autumn Trail Mix

Step 1: Gather and Prep Your Ingredients

Before you begin, make sure each ingredient is fresh and ready to shine. Chop any large dried apple pieces into bite-sized bits, break any larger chocolate blocks into chunks, and give your pecans a rough chop if you like smaller pieces. Line up all your ingredients so measuring and mixing is quick and easy.

Step 2: Combine Everything in a Large Bowl

Grab your largest mixing bowl (trust me, you’ll want plenty of room for tossing) and add the roasted pumpkin seeds, dried cranberries, pecans, mini pretzels, dark chocolate chunks, and dried apple slices. If you want every scoop to be perfectly balanced, try gently shaking the bowl as you add each layer for an even distribution.

Step 3: Sprinkle with Cinnamon

Now for the autumn magic! Take your favorite cinnamon and dust it over the mixture. Start with a little—you can always add more after tasting. If your pumpkin seeds or pecans are already cinnamon roasted, use less to avoid overpowering the mix.

Step 4: Toss to Combine

Use a large spoon or clean hands to gently toss everything together. Make sure the cinnamon lightly coats the dried fruit and chocolate pieces so every handful tastes like fall. Take a moment to admire the colors—it’s as if the whole season landed in your bowl!

Step 5: Taste and Adjust

Grab a spoonful and see how you like the blend. Want a touch more sweetness? Add extra cranberries or chocolate. Love a spicier punch? Another pinch of cinnamon works wonders. This recipe is forgiving, so feel free to tweak until it tastes just right for you.

How to Serve Autumn Trail Mix

Garnishes

Want to make your Autumn Trail Mix extra special? Try mixing in a handful of toasted coconut flakes or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt right before serving. These little additions turn a simple snack into something guests will absolutely rave about!

Side Dishes

This trail mix is so flexible—it pairs well with so many autumn treats! Serve it alongside a bowl of creamy Greek yogurt for a hearty breakfast, or with mugs of hot apple cider for the ultimate fireside snack. Even a slice of warm pumpkin bread alongside this mix is pure autumn bliss.

Creative Ways to Present

Get playful with your presentation: scoop the Autumn Trail Mix into small mason jars or parchment-lined paper cones for easy grab-and-go munching. Hosting a fall get-together? Fill mini pumpkins or colorful bowls for a wow-factor centerpiece that doubles as a delicious snack.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

To keep your Autumn Trail Mix as fresh and crunchy as possible, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It’ll happily keep for a week or more, perfect for snacking whenever the craving strikes.

Freezing

Believe it or not, you can freeze this trail mix! Just scoop it into a zip-top bag, remove as much air as you can, and freeze. It’ll last for up to three months—just let it come back to room temperature before digging in so the chocolate isn’t too hard.

Reheating

Trail mix usually doesn’t need reheating, but if you love a slightly warm snack, try spreading a portion on a baking sheet and placing it in a low oven (about 250°F) for 5 minutes. The aromas will be even toastier—just be careful not to melt the chocolate too much!

FAQs

Can I make this trail mix nut-free?

Absolutely! Swap out pecans for roasted chickpeas, pumpkin seeds, or even sunflower seeds. Just make sure your chocolate and pretzels are nut-free as well to keep everyone safe and happy.

How can I make it less sweet?

Reduce or omit the chocolate chunks and dried fruit, and bulk up your Autumn Trail Mix with extra pretzels or even roasted edamame for extra savory crunch.

What other dried fruits could I use?

Dried cherries, figs, apricots, or even blueberries all work beautifully here and add their own unique twist on fall flavors. Mix and match based on your favorites!

Is this trail mix gluten free?

It can definitely be made gluten free—simply ensure your pretzels are labeled gluten free and double-check any other add-ins for hidden gluten.

What’s the best way to package for gifts?

Divide the Autumn Trail Mix into cellophane treat bags or small jars, tie them with twine and a cute label, and you’ll have the perfect edible gift for teachers, friends, or holiday parties.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a snack that’s as colorful and comforting as your favorite fall sweater, give this Autumn Trail Mix a try! It’s just as much fun to share as it is to eat, and you’ll love how easy it is to make your own signature blend. Happy snacking!

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