Dark Chocolate Trail Mix is a delightful combination of rich dark chocolate, crunchy nuts, and sweet dried fruits. This homemade snack is perfect for on-the-go energy, a midday pick-me-up, or a healthy treat during outdoor activities.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Nutrient-Dense: Packed with antioxidants from dark chocolate, healthy fats from nuts, and natural sugars from dried fruits.
- Customizable: Easily adaptable to include your favorite nuts, seeds, and dried fruits.
- Quick and Easy: Requires no cooking; simply mix the ingredients and enjoy.
- Portable: Ideal for packing in lunches, taking on hikes, or keeping at your desk for a healthy snack.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Dark chocolate chips
- Roasted almonds
- Roasted cashews
- Pumpkin seeds
- Dried cherries
Directions
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the dark chocolate chips, roasted almonds, roasted cashews, pumpkin seeds, and dried cherries.
- Mix Well: Stir the mixture until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Store: Transfer the trail mix to an airtight container or individual snack bags for easy portioning.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Approximately 16 servings (1/4 cup each)
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
Variations
- Nut-Free Version: Replace nuts with additional seeds such as sunflower seeds or more pumpkin seeds.
- Different Dried Fruits: Substitute dried cherries with dried cranberries, apricots, or blueberries for a different flavor profile.
- Add Grains: Include whole-grain cereals or granola clusters for added texture and carbohydrates.
- Spiced Nuts: Use spiced or flavored nuts to add an extra kick to your trail mix.
- Chocolate Variations: Try using dark chocolate chunks or cacao nibs for a different chocolate experience.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Keep the trail mix in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
- Freezing: For longer storage, place the trail mix in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Not applicable, as this is a no-cook recipe.
FAQs
What are the health benefits of dark chocolate trail mix?
Dark chocolate is rich in antioxidants, nuts provide healthy fats and protein, and dried fruits offer natural sugars and fiber, making this trail mix a balanced and nutritious snack.
Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
Yes, you can substitute milk chocolate for dark chocolate if you prefer a sweeter taste, though dark chocolate offers more antioxidants.
How can I make this trail mix gluten-free?
Ensure all ingredients, especially any added cereals or chocolate chips, are certified gluten-free.
Is this trail mix suitable for vegans?
Yes, as long as the dark chocolate chips are dairy-free and all other ingredients are plant-based.
Can I add coconut flakes to this trail mix?
Absolutely! Unsweetened coconut flakes can add a tropical flavor and additional texture.
How do I prevent the dried fruits from sticking together?
Lightly coat the dried fruits with a small amount of cornstarch or powdered sugar before mixing to reduce stickiness.
Are there any nut alternatives for those with allergies?
Yes, you can use seeds like sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, or soy nuts as alternatives to tree nuts.
Can I include granola in this trail mix?
Certainly! Adding granola can provide extra crunch and flavor.
How should I portion this trail mix for snacks?
Divide the trail mix into 1/4 cup portions and store them in individual snack bags for convenient grab-and-go snacks.
Is this trail mix suitable for children?
Yes, but be mindful of any potential allergens and ensure the pieces are appropriately sized to prevent choking hazards.
Conclusion
Dark Chocolate Trail Mix is a versatile and nutritious snack that combines the rich flavors of dark chocolate with the satisfying crunch of nuts and the sweetness of dried fruits. Quick to prepare and easily customizable, it’s perfect for a healthy snack option that caters to various tastes and dietary preferences.
Print
Dark Chocolate Trail Mix
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Snack
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Dark Chocolate Trail Mix is a deliciously healthy snack combining crunchy nuts, tangy dried fruits, and rich dark chocolate. Ideal for on-the-go energy or a quick treat, this mix is no-bake, easy to assemble, and perfect for satisfying your sweet and salty cravings.
Ingredients
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1 cup raw almonds (lightly roasted if desired)
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1 cup raw cashews
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1/2 cup pumpkin seeds
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1/2 cup sunflower seeds
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1 cup dried cranberries
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1/2 cup dried cherries
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1 cup dark chocolate chunks or chips (70% cocoa or higher)
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1/2 cup unsweetened coconut flakes (optional)
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1/4 teaspoon sea salt (optional)
Instructions
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In a large bowl, combine the almonds, cashews, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, dried cranberries, dried cherries, and coconut flakes (if using).
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Gently fold in the dark chocolate chunks or chips.
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Sprinkle with sea salt and toss lightly to distribute evenly.
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Transfer the mix to an airtight container.
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Enjoy immediately or store at room temperature for up to 2 weeks for a quick, energizing snack.
Notes
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For extra crunch, lightly toast the nuts and seeds in a dry skillet over medium heat for 5–7 minutes before mixing, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
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Feel free to customize the mix by adding other dried fruits or seeds based on your taste preferences.