Craving a taste of autumn? This Pumpkin Spice Trail Mix is the perfect easy snack to get you into the fall spirit! This recipe blends crunchy nuts, seeds, and dried fruits with the warm, comforting flavors of pumpkin spice.
It’s ideal for snacking on the go, packing in lunchboxes, or enjoying as a festive treat while watching your favorite cozy movie. This versatile recipe is easily customizable to your taste preferences and dietary needs, making it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
What is Pumpkin Spice Trail Mix?
Pumpkin Spice Trail Mix is a delightful blend of crunchy nuts, flavorful seeds, chewy dried fruits, and the iconic warmth of pumpkin spice. It’s a quick and easy snack perfect for satisfying cravings with a healthy and delicious option. Ditch the processed snacks and embrace the wholesome goodness of this homemade trail mix.
It’s far more customizable than store-bought mixes, allowing you to control the ingredients and tailor the flavor to your exact liking. Plus, the act of creating your own trail mix is surprisingly therapeutic!
Key Ingredients for Pumpkin Spice Trail Mix:
- 2 cups Raw Almonds: Provide a satisfying crunch and healthy fats. Ensure they are unsalted for better flavor control.
- 1 cup Pumpkin Seeds (Pepitas): Add a nutty flavor and are packed with nutrients. Look for raw, hulled pumpkin seeds.
- 1 cup Walnuts: Contribute to the overall nutty profile and are a great source of omega-3 fatty acids.
- 1 cup Dried Cranberries: Offer a chewy texture and a touch of sweetness. You can substitute with other dried fruits like raisins or chopped apricots.
- 1 cup Dried Apple Pieces: Add a natural sweetness and a slightly tart flavor. Ensure they are unsweetened to avoid excessive sugar.
- 1/4 cup Pumpkin Pie Spice: The star of the show, providing the signature warm and comforting flavor. You can buy pre-made pumpkin pie spice or create your own blend (recipe below).
- 2 tablespoons Maple Syrup: Adds a touch of sweetness and helps the spice blend adhere to the nuts and seeds. Substitute with honey or agave nectar if preferred.
- 1 tablespoon Coconut Oil, melted: Helps the spice blend coat the ingredients evenly and adds a subtle tropical note.
- 1/2 teaspoon Sea Salt: Enhances the flavors of the nuts, seeds, and spices.
- Optional – 1/2 cup White Chocolate Chips: For a sweet treat!
Homemade Pumpkin Pie Spice Blend:
If you prefer to make your own pumpkin pie spice, mix together:
- 3 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 2 teaspoons ground ginger
- 2 teaspoons ground nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
This will yield more than you need for this recipe, but the excess can be stored in an airtight container for future baking adventures.
How to Make Pumpkin Spice Trail Mix:
Making this Pumpkin Spice Trail Mix is incredibly easy and takes only about 15 minutes from start to finish. The recipe’s simple approach ensures a delicious and satisfying snack without any complicated steps. The combination of crunchy nuts, sweet dried fruits, and the aromatic pumpkin spice blend creates a delightful treat that’s perfect for fall. The minimal preparation time make this a great recipe perfect for taking to pot lucks or leaving out during parties!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Ingredients:
Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Line one baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and prevent sticking. In a large bowl, combine the raw almonds, pumpkin seeds, walnuts, dried cranberries, and dried apple pieces.
Step 2: Mix the Spice Blend:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the pumpkin pie spice, maple syrup, melted coconut oil, and sea salt until well combined. Ensure there are no lumps in the spice mixture.
Step 3: Coat the Trail Mix:
Pour the spice mixture over the nuts, seeds, and dried fruits in the large bowl. Use a spatula or your hands to gently toss everything together, making sure the nuts and seeds are evenly coated with the spice blend.
Step 4: Bake the Trail Mix:
Spread the trail mix in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even toasting and prevent burning. Watch closely during the last few minutes of baking, as nuts can burn easily.
Step 5: Cool and Enjoy:
Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the trail mix cool completely on the pan. As it cools, the mixture will crisp up. If adding white chocolate chips, sprinkle them over the cooled trail mix. Once the trail mix is completely cool, break it up into smaller pieces and store it in an airtight container at room temperature. Enjoy your homemade Pumpkin Spice Trail Mix as a delicious and healthy snack!
Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Spice Trail Mix:
This Pumpkin Spice Trail Mix will be your new go-to fall snack for several reasons. The highlight is, of course, the irresistible flavor combination. The warm spices perfectly complement the crunchy nuts and sweet dried fruits, making each bite a delightful experience. You’ll feel like you grabbed a bite of fall with this sweet and savory mix!
Making this trail mix at home is incredibly cost-effective compared to buying pre-made mixes from the store. You have complete control over the ingredients, allowing you to choose high-quality options and avoid unnecessary additives or preservatives. And even better it is a mix of healthy and fun, making a great snack or appetizer.
The addition of dried cranberries and apple pieces provides a chewy sweetness that balances the earthy notes of the nuts and seeds. The warm aroma while baking it will fill your kitchen with the inviting aromas of autumn. If you enjoy this recipe, you might also like my Cinnamon Roasted Almonds for another satisfying and flavorful snack. Give this Pumpkin Spice Trail Mix a try and enjoy a delicious and healthy snack that’s perfect for the fall season!
What to Serve Pumpkin Spice Trail Mix With:
This Pumpkin Spice Trail Mix is versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions:
- Enjoy it as a standalone snack: This is the most straightforward and satisfying way to enjoy the trail mix. Grab a handful whenever you need a quick energy boost or a delicious treat.
- Top Yogurt or Oatmeal: Sprinkle the trail mix over your morning yogurt or oatmeal for added flavor and texture. The crunch of the nuts and seeds pairs perfectly with the creamy base.
- Mix it into Granola: Add the trail mix to your homemade granola for an extra boost of flavor and nutrition.
- Pair it with Apple Slices: Serve the trail mix alongside sliced apples for a balanced and satisfying snack. The sweetness of the apples complements the nutty and spicy flavors of the trail mix.
- Include it in a Charcuterie Board: Add the trail mix to your charcuterie board for a unique and festive touch. It pairs well with cheeses, crackers, and other savory snacks.
- Enjoy it with Coffe or Tea: Because it is fall, this recipe is a great addition with your morning coffee or evening tea for either a small boost of sweetness or delicious crunch.
Top Tips for Perfecting Pumpkin Spice Trail Mix:
- Use High-Quality Nuts and Seeds: Opt for raw, unsalted nuts and seeds to control the sodium content and ensure the freshest flavor.
- Toast the Nuts and Seeds Separately: For an even deeper flavor, toast the nuts and seeds in a dry skillet over medium heat before mixing them. Be sure to toast them separately, as each ingredient has a varying cook time.
- Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a stronger pumpkin spice flavor, add an extra teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice to the mix. The maple syrup or agave adds a sweetness with a different overall flavor, so adding more sugar may affect the overall sweetness.
- Monitor the Baking Time: Watch the trail mix closely while it’s in the oven, as nuts can burn quickly. Stirring halfway through helps ensure even toasting.
- Customize the Ingredients: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different nuts, seeds, and dried fruits to create your own unique blend.
- Avoid Overcrowding the Baking Sheet: Make sure to spread the trail mix in a single layer on the baking sheet to ensure even toasting. If necessary, use two baking sheets. To evenly toast the ingredients, don’t skip the important step of stirring halfway.
- Ingredient Substitutions:
- Swap out the maple syrup with honey or agave
- Substitute pecans, or macadamia nuts for walnuts
- Add a sprinkle of cinnamon alongside the pumpkin spice for an extra kick!
5 Facts about Pumpkin Spice Trail Mix:
- It’s a Great Source of Nutrients: This trail mix is packed with healthy fats, protein, and fiber from the nuts and seeds.
- It’s Customizable: You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your dietary needs and preferences.
- It’s a Perfect Fall Snack: The warm spices and comforting flavors make it ideal for the autumn season.
- It’s Easy to Make: This recipe requires minimal effort and time, making it a great option for busy individuals.
- It’s Better Than Store-Bought: Homemade trail mix allows you to control the ingredients and avoid unnecessary additives.
Storing and Reheating Tips:
Storing:
- Once the Pumpkin Spice Trail Mix has cooled completely, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. This will help maintain its freshness and prevent it from becoming stale.
- Avoid storing the trail mix in direct sunlight or warm environments, as this can cause the nuts and seeds to become rancid.
- If stored properly, the trail mix will stay fresh for up to 2-4 weeks.
Reheating:
- Reheating is generally not necessary, as this trail mix is best enjoyed at room temperature.
- If you want to warm it up slightly, you can place a small portion in a microwave-safe bowl and heat it in 10-second intervals, being careful not to burn the nuts.
Freezing:
- While it’s not typically recommended to freeze trail mix, you can do so if you need to store it for an extended period.
- Place the cooled trail mix in a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible.
- The trail mix can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
- When ready to eat, thaw the trail mix at room temperature. Note that the texture of the dried fruits may change slightly after freezing.
Final Thoughts:
Pumpkin Spice Trail Mix is a simple charm for the fall. With its easy creation and diverse flavor mix, it’s perfect for making, sharing, and storing for later. Enjoy the flavors!
try also : Easy Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe and find more in pinterest
Pumpkin Spice Trail Mix Faqs :
Can I use a different sweetener?
Yes, you can substitute honey or agave nectar for maple syrup.Can I use salted nuts?
If using salted nuts, reduce or omit the added sea salt in the recipe.Can I add chocolate chips?
Yes, feel free to add chocolate chips or other candies to the trail mix.How long will the trail mix stay fresh?
When stored properly, the trail mix will stay fresh for up to 2-4 weeks.Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Ensure all ingredients are sourced from gluten-free facilities.Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, simply substitute the honey with agave