Description
A quick, healthy, and satisfying trail mix combining toasted almonds, pumpkin seeds, cashews, dark chocolate chunks, and chia seeds for a protein-packed energy boost without the sugar crash.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup raw almonds (140 g), skins on
- ½ cup roasted pumpkin seeds (60 g)
- ½ cup raw cashews (70 g)
- ⅓ cup dark chocolate chunks (60 g), 70% cocoa or higher
- ¼ cup unsweetened dried cranberries (30 g), optional
- 2 tbsp chia seeds (20 g)
- Pinch of sea salt
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon, optional
Instructions
- Optional toasting (5-7 minutes): Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread almonds, cashews, and pumpkin seeds evenly on a baking sheet. Toast for 5-7 minutes, stirring halfway, until lightly golden and fragrant. Skip if short on time.
- Cool the nuts and seeds completely to avoid melting the chocolate.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled nuts and seeds, chia seeds, dried cranberries, and a pinch of sea salt. Add cinnamon if using.
- Gently fold in the dark chocolate chunks. If nuts are warm, chocolate may melt, so be patient.
- Mix thoroughly with a spatula or wooden spoon to evenly distribute the chocolate.
- Transfer trail mix to an airtight container or jar. Store at room temperature for up to two weeks.
Notes
Toast nuts and seeds carefully to avoid burning. Cool completely before adding chocolate to prevent melting. Store in airtight container; refrigerate if kitchen is warm to keep chocolate from melting. Stir before serving if clumped. Customize with nut-free or seasonal variations as desired.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5-7 minutes (optional toasting)
- Category: Snack
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: ½ cup (approximate)
- Calories: 280
- Fat: 20
- Carbohydrates: 18
- Fiber: 5
- Protein: 8
Keywords: trail mix, protein snack, dark chocolate, almonds, healthy snack, energy boost, easy snack, gluten-free, vegan option