Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Autumn Trail Mix is a festive, flavorful snack that captures the essence of fall in every bite. Packed with seasonal ingredients like dried cranberries, pumpkin seeds, spiced nuts, and candy corn, it’s the perfect combination of sweet, salty, crunchy, and chewy. Ideal for on-the-go snacking, party bowls, or cozy nights in, this mix is as convenient as it is delicious.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
roasted almondspecans or walnuts (lightly toasted)pretzel sticks or twistsdried cranberriespumpkin seeds (pepitas)golden raisinscandy cornbutterscotch or white chocolate chipscinnamon or pumpkin spice (optional)
directions
In a large mixing bowl, combine roasted almonds, toasted pecans or walnuts, and pretzels.
Add in dried cranberries, pumpkin seeds, golden raisins, and candy corn.
Sprinkle with cinnamon or pumpkin spice if desired, and toss everything gently to distribute the flavors.
Fold in butterscotch or white chocolate chips last to avoid melting from warm ingredients.
Transfer to an airtight container or serve immediately in a bowl.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields approximately 6 cups of trail mix.Preparation time: 10 minutesTotal time: 10 minutes
Variations
Swap candy corn for mini marshmallows or yogurt-covered raisins.
Add granola clusters or cereal for added crunch.
Use maple-glazed nuts for an extra touch of sweetness.
Include dried apple or banana chips for more fruity flavor.
Try a sprinkle of sea salt for balance if using sweeter ingredients.
storage/reheating
Store Autumn Trail Mix in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.Keep in a cool, dry place to maintain crunch and freshness.No reheating necessary, but avoid exposure to heat to prevent chocolate or chips from melting.
FAQs
Can I make this trail mix nut-free?
Yes, substitute nuts with seeds like sunflower or extra pretzels and crunchy chickpeas.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
It can be if you use certified gluten-free pretzels and chips.
Can I add fresh fruit?
Fresh fruit isn’t recommended as it reduces shelf life and adds moisture.
Is this mix suitable for kids?
Absolutely! It’s colorful, fun, and customizable for different preferences.
How can I make it less sweet?
Reduce or omit the candy corn and chips, and increase savory or salty components.
Can I make a large batch?
Yes, this recipe easily scales up for parties or meal prep.
What’s the best way to serve this mix?
Serve it in small cups or jars for portion control or as a snack bowl for gatherings.
Can I freeze trail mix?
Freezing is not recommended due to the different textures and moisture risks.
What type of chocolate works best?
White or butterscotch chips complement the fall flavors, but dark chocolate is also great.
Can I toast the ingredients?
Yes, lightly toasting nuts enhances flavor—just be sure they are cooled before mixing.
Conclusion
Autumn Trail Mix is the ultimate fall snack, blending comforting spices, seasonal flavors, and a medley of textures into one irresistible handful. Whether you’re preparing it for a hike, a harvest party, or simply to celebrate the season, this trail mix will satisfy cravings and bring a festive flair to your snacking routine.
PrintAutumn Trail Mix
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Snack
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delicious and festive Autumn Trail Mix packed with seasonal flavors, perfect for snacking or sharing during fall gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 cup roasted pumpkin seeds
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- 1 cup candy corn
- 1 cup mini pretzels
- 1 cup chocolate chips (or autumn-themed chocolate candies)
- 1 cup roasted almonds
- 1/2 cup dried apple slices, chopped
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine pumpkin seeds, dried cranberries, candy corn, mini pretzels, chocolate chips, roasted almonds, and chopped dried apple slices.
- Gently mix all ingredients until evenly distributed.
- Store the trail mix in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
- Serve in small bowls or pack into individual snack bags for on-the-go treats.
Notes
- You can customize by substituting nuts or dried fruits based on your preference.
- For a nut-free version, replace almonds with sunflower or soy nuts.
- To make it more festive, add a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice.