Fall is here, and that means it’s time for cozy snacks! If you love the warm flavors of pumpkin spice, you’ll adore this Pumpkin Spice Trail Mix. It combines crunchy nuts, sweet dried fruits, and a hint of chocolate to make a perfect snack for chilly days. Whether you’re heading outdoors or just enjoying a movie night, this mix is a tasty and healthy choice. Let’s get started on this delicious recipe!
Ingredients
Complete Ingredient List
– 1 cup raw pumpkin seeds (pepitas)
– 1 cup unsalted almonds
– 1 cup dried cranberries
– 1 cup dark chocolate chips
– 2 tablespoons pumpkin pie spice
– 1 tablespoon maple syrup
– 1 tablespoon coconut oil
– Pinch of sea salt
Creating the perfect Pumpkin Spice Trail Mix starts with great ingredients. I love using raw pumpkin seeds for their crunch and nutty flavor. Unsalted almonds add a nice texture and healthy fats. Dried cranberries give a sweet and tangy taste that pairs well with the spices. Dark chocolate chips bring a rich sweetness that makes this mix even better.
Pumpkin pie spice is the star here. It brings that warm, cozy flavor of fall. I use maple syrup to bind it all together and add a touch of sweetness. Coconut oil helps coat everything and makes the mix feel rich. Finally, a pinch of sea salt enhances all the flavors perfectly.
Ingredient Substitutions
– Alternatives for pumpkin seeds: If you can’t find pumpkin seeds, try sunflower seeds or pecans. Both add great taste and crunch.
– Different nuts to consider: You can swap almonds for cashews or walnuts. Each nut has its own flavor and texture.
– Options for dried fruits: If you want a change from cranberries, use raisins or chopped dates. These fruits add natural sweetness and chewiness.
Nutritional Information
– Calories per serving: This trail mix has about 200 calories per serving.
– Important vitamins and minerals: The nuts and seeds provide protein, fiber, and healthy fats. They also offer vitamins like E, magnesium, and zinc. Dried cranberries add antioxidants, making this mix not just tasty but good for you too.
By choosing high-quality ingredients, you ensure your Pumpkin Spice Trail Mix is both delicious and nutritious. For the full recipe, check out the earlier section.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Oven and Ingredients
To start, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your trail mix bakes evenly. Next, grab a small bowl. In it, mix together 2 tablespoons of pumpkin pie spice and a pinch of sea salt. This spice blend adds that cozy fall flavor we all love.
Combining Ingredients
Now, let’s melt the coconut oil and maple syrup. Take a small saucepan and place it on low heat. Add 1 tablespoon of coconut oil and 1 tablespoon of maple syrup. Stir until they combine well. In a large mixing bowl, add 1 cup of raw pumpkin seeds, 1 cup of unsalted almonds, and 1 cup of dried cranberries. Once the oil and syrup are ready, pour them over the nuts and seeds. Sprinkle the spice mixture on top, too.
Baking Process
Next, grab a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper. Spread the trail mix evenly on the sheet. Bake it in your preheated oven for about 10 minutes. Remember to stir the mix halfway through. This prevents burning and helps the nuts toast evenly. Once it’s done, the nuts should smell fragrant. Let it cool on the baking sheet. After cooling, stir in 1 cup of dark chocolate chips. Now, you have a tasty trail mix to enjoy!
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting Your Trail Mix
To get that ideal crunch, roast your nuts and seeds. Baking them at 350°F for about 10 minutes helps. Stir halfway to keep them from burning. This step brings out their flavors too!
Balancing flavors is key. Use sweet ingredients like dried cranberries to offset the saltiness of nuts. A pinch of sea salt enhances the sweetness of dark chocolate. This mix will delight your taste buds.
Storage Recommendations
For freshness, use airtight containers. Glass jars or plastic bins work well. They keep your trail mix crunchy and tasty.
You can store it for about two weeks. After that, it may lose its flavor and crunch. Check for any signs of spoilage before you snack.
Serving Suggestions
This trail mix pairs well with yogurt or oatmeal. Just sprinkle it on top for extra flavor. You can also enjoy it as a stand-alone snack. It’s perfect for hikes or road trips. Try adding it to your salad for a tasty crunch!
For a fun twist, mix it with popcorn. It adds a sweet and salty taste that everyone will love. Enjoy your pumpkin spice trail mix in many ways!
For the full recipe, check out the detailed steps in the article.
Variations
Seasonal Variations
To make your pumpkin spice trail mix even better, try adding autumn spices. Cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice can boost the warm flavors. You can mix these spices into the pumpkin pie spice for extra depth.
Incorporating seasonal fruits is another great idea. Dried apples, pears, or even figs can add natural sweetness and chewiness. These fruits pair well with the other ingredients.
Health-Conscious Adjustments
If you want to lower sugar content, reduce or skip the maple syrup. You can also replace dark chocolate chips with unsweetened cocoa nibs. This change keeps the flavor but cuts the sugar.
Using non-chocolate alternatives is smart too. Try adding yogurt-covered raisins or sunflower seeds. These options still provide a sweet crunch without the chocolate.
Kid-Friendly Modifications
Kids love fun snacks! You can add colorful candies or mini marshmallows to make the mix more exciting. This makes it visually appealing, too.
Creating visually appealing mixes helps engage kids. Use a mix of nuts, seeds, and bright dried fruits. Arrange them in layers for a fun snack experience.
This pumpkin spice trail mix is a flexible treat. You can adjust it to fit your taste and dietary needs. For the full recipe, check out the [Full Recipe].
Where to Buy Pumpkin Spice Trail Mix
Pre-Made Options
You can find pumpkin spice trail mix in many stores. Check your local grocery store first. Stores like Walmart, Target, and Whole Foods often have it. You may also find it at health food stores. Popular brands to consider include Nature Valley, Trader Joe’s, and Planters. Each brand offers a unique mix of flavors and textures.
Online Shopping Resources
Shopping online is a great way to find pumpkin spice trail mix. Websites like Amazon and Thrive Market offer many options. They often have good deals and customer reviews. You can also check Walmart’s and Target’s websites for convenience. Some brands even offer subscription options. These options help you get your favorite mix delivered regularly.
Reviews of Popular Brands
When choosing a brand, reviews can help you decide. Nature Valley gets high marks for its crunchy texture. Many people love Trader Joe’s for its balanced flavors. Planters is praised for its variety of nuts. Look for consumer ratings to guide your choice. Feedback often highlights taste, freshness, and quality.
FAQs
How long does homemade pumpkin spice trail mix last?
Homemade pumpkin spice trail mix lasts about two weeks. Store it in an airtight container. Keep it in a cool and dry place. Avoid direct sunlight. For best freshness, consume it within the first week. You can also check for any off smells or signs of spoilage.
Can I freeze pumpkin spice trail mix?
Yes, you can freeze pumpkin spice trail mix. Place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. Make sure to remove as much air as possible. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When ready to enjoy, just thaw it in the fridge overnight.
What are the health benefits of pumpkin spice ingredients?
Pumpkin seeds are high in protein and healthy fats. They help build muscle and support heart health. Almonds are rich in vitamin E, which is good for your skin. Dried cranberries provide antioxidants that boost your immune system. Dark chocolate chips add iron and can improve mood. The spices in pumpkin pie spice can help with digestion and inflammation.
How can I customize my pumpkin spice trail mix?
You can add more nuts, like walnuts or pecans, for extra crunch. Try adding seeds like sunflower or chia for added nutrition. If you want more sweetness, toss in some honey-roasted nuts. Dried fruits, like apples or raisins, can also add flavor. Feel free to experiment with spices, too! Cinnamon or nutmeg can give it a unique twist. For more ideas, check the Full Recipe.
This blog post walks you through making a tasty pumpkin spice trail mix. You got the full ingredient list along with fun swaps. We covered how to bake it right and store it fresh. You also learned ways to tweak the mix for any season, plus options for kids.
As you try making your trail mix, remember to enjoy the process. Customize it exactly how you like. With these tips, you’ll have a delicious snack everyone will adore. Happy mixing!
![- 1 cup raw pumpkin seeds (pepitas) - 1 cup unsalted almonds - 1 cup dried cranberries - 1 cup dark chocolate chips - 2 tablespoons pumpkin pie spice - 1 tablespoon maple syrup - 1 tablespoon coconut oil - Pinch of sea salt Creating the perfect Pumpkin Spice Trail Mix starts with great ingredients. I love using raw pumpkin seeds for their crunch and nutty flavor. Unsalted almonds add a nice texture and healthy fats. Dried cranberries give a sweet and tangy taste that pairs well with the spices. Dark chocolate chips bring a rich sweetness that makes this mix even better. Pumpkin pie spice is the star here. It brings that warm, cozy flavor of fall. I use maple syrup to bind it all together and add a touch of sweetness. Coconut oil helps coat everything and makes the mix feel rich. Finally, a pinch of sea salt enhances all the flavors perfectly. - Alternatives for pumpkin seeds: If you can't find pumpkin seeds, try sunflower seeds or pecans. Both add great taste and crunch. - Different nuts to consider: You can swap almonds for cashews or walnuts. Each nut has its own flavor and texture. - Options for dried fruits: If you want a change from cranberries, use raisins or chopped dates. These fruits add natural sweetness and chewiness. - Calories per serving: This trail mix has about 200 calories per serving. - Important vitamins and minerals: The nuts and seeds provide protein, fiber, and healthy fats. They also offer vitamins like E, magnesium, and zinc. Dried cranberries add antioxidants, making this mix not just tasty but good for you too. By choosing high-quality ingredients, you ensure your Pumpkin Spice Trail Mix is both delicious and nutritious. For the full recipe, check out the earlier section. To start, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your trail mix bakes evenly. Next, grab a small bowl. In it, mix together 2 tablespoons of pumpkin pie spice and a pinch of sea salt. This spice blend adds that cozy fall flavor we all love. Now, let’s melt the coconut oil and maple syrup. Take a small saucepan and place it on low heat. Add 1 tablespoon of coconut oil and 1 tablespoon of maple syrup. Stir until they combine well. In a large mixing bowl, add 1 cup of raw pumpkin seeds, 1 cup of unsalted almonds, and 1 cup of dried cranberries. Once the oil and syrup are ready, pour them over the nuts and seeds. Sprinkle the spice mixture on top, too. Next, grab a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper. Spread the trail mix evenly on the sheet. Bake it in your preheated oven for about 10 minutes. Remember to stir the mix halfway through. This prevents burning and helps the nuts toast evenly. Once it’s done, the nuts should smell fragrant. Let it cool on the baking sheet. After cooling, stir in 1 cup of dark chocolate chips. Now, you have a tasty trail mix to enjoy! To get that ideal crunch, roast your nuts and seeds. Baking them at 350°F for about 10 minutes helps. Stir halfway to keep them from burning. This step brings out their flavors too! Balancing flavors is key. Use sweet ingredients like dried cranberries to offset the saltiness of nuts. A pinch of sea salt enhances the sweetness of dark chocolate. This mix will delight your taste buds. For freshness, use airtight containers. Glass jars or plastic bins work well. They keep your trail mix crunchy and tasty. You can store it for about two weeks. After that, it may lose its flavor and crunch. Check for any signs of spoilage before you snack. This trail mix pairs well with yogurt or oatmeal. Just sprinkle it on top for extra flavor. You can also enjoy it as a stand-alone snack. It’s perfect for hikes or road trips. Try adding it to your salad for a tasty crunch! For a fun twist, mix it with popcorn. It adds a sweet and salty taste that everyone will love. Enjoy your pumpkin spice trail mix in many ways! For the full recipe, check out the detailed steps in the article. {{image_2}} To make your pumpkin spice trail mix even better, try adding autumn spices. Cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice can boost the warm flavors. You can mix these spices into the pumpkin pie spice for extra depth. Incorporating seasonal fruits is another great idea. Dried apples, pears, or even figs can add natural sweetness and chewiness. These fruits pair well with the other ingredients. If you want to lower sugar content, reduce or skip the maple syrup. You can also replace dark chocolate chips with unsweetened cocoa nibs. This change keeps the flavor but cuts the sugar. Using non-chocolate alternatives is smart too. Try adding yogurt-covered raisins or sunflower seeds. These options still provide a sweet crunch without the chocolate. Kids love fun snacks! You can add colorful candies or mini marshmallows to make the mix more exciting. This makes it visually appealing, too. Creating visually appealing mixes helps engage kids. Use a mix of nuts, seeds, and bright dried fruits. Arrange them in layers for a fun snack experience. This pumpkin spice trail mix is a flexible treat. You can adjust it to fit your taste and dietary needs. For the full recipe, check out the [Full Recipe]. You can find pumpkin spice trail mix in many stores. Check your local grocery store first. Stores like Walmart, Target, and Whole Foods often have it. You may also find it at health food stores. Popular brands to consider include Nature Valley, Trader Joe's, and Planters. Each brand offers a unique mix of flavors and textures. Shopping online is a great way to find pumpkin spice trail mix. Websites like Amazon and Thrive Market offer many options. They often have good deals and customer reviews. You can also check Walmart's and Target's websites for convenience. Some brands even offer subscription options. These options help you get your favorite mix delivered regularly. When choosing a brand, reviews can help you decide. Nature Valley gets high marks for its crunchy texture. Many people love Trader Joe's for its balanced flavors. Planters is praised for its variety of nuts. Look for consumer ratings to guide your choice. Feedback often highlights taste, freshness, and quality. Homemade pumpkin spice trail mix lasts about two weeks. Store it in an airtight container. Keep it in a cool and dry place. Avoid direct sunlight. For best freshness, consume it within the first week. You can also check for any off smells or signs of spoilage. Yes, you can freeze pumpkin spice trail mix. Place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. Make sure to remove as much air as possible. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When ready to enjoy, just thaw it in the fridge overnight. Pumpkin seeds are high in protein and healthy fats. They help build muscle and support heart health. Almonds are rich in vitamin E, which is good for your skin. Dried cranberries provide antioxidants that boost your immune system. Dark chocolate chips add iron and can improve mood. The spices in pumpkin pie spice can help with digestion and inflammation. You can add more nuts, like walnuts or pecans, for extra crunch. Try adding seeds like sunflower or chia for added nutrition. If you want more sweetness, toss in some honey-roasted nuts. Dried fruits, like apples or raisins, can also add flavor. Feel free to experiment with spices, too! Cinnamon or nutmeg can give it a unique twist. For more ideas, check the Full Recipe. This blog post walks you through making a tasty pumpkin spice trail mix. You got the full ingredient list along with fun swaps. We covered how to bake it right and store it fresh. You also learned ways to tweak the mix for any season, plus options for kids. As you try making your trail mix, remember to enjoy the process. Customize it exactly how you like. With these tips, you’ll have a delicious snack everyone will adore. Happy mixing!](https://savoryspiral.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/aefbb0b2-dc41-4120-8b27-2d7387cf87d6-250x250.webp)