Trail mix is the ultimate snack for those on the go, whether you’re hiking, at work, or just lounging at home. The best part? You can easily customize it to fit your taste and nutritional needs. Today, I’m excited to share The Best Trail Mix (Made with Only 5 Ingredients!) that combines the creamy richness of nuts, the tartness of dried fruit, and the sweetness of chocolate. This delightful mix is simple to make and absolutely delicious!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This trail mix is not only easy to whip up, but it also packs a punch of flavor and nutrition. With just five wholesome ingredients, you’ll have a snack that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s great for energy boosts during hikes, as a mid-afternoon snack, or even as a topping for your morning yogurt. Plus, you can feel good knowing exactly what’s in your trail mix—no hidden additives or preservatives!
What’s in the Bowl
Let’s break down these five simple ingredients that make up The Best Trail Mix (Made with Only 5 Ingredients!):
- 1 cup raw cashews: These creamy nuts provide healthy fats and protein, keeping you satisfied.
- 1 cup raw almonds: Crunchy and nutrient-dense, almonds are a fantastic source of vitamin E and magnesium.
- 1 cup pistachios (shells removed): With their unique flavor and bright green color, pistachios add a fun element to the mix.
- 1 cup dried cranberries: Sweet and tart, dried cranberries add a chewy texture and a burst of flavor.
- 1 cup chocolate chips: Who can resist the indulgence of chocolate? These add a delightful sweetness to balance the nuts and fruit.
What You’ll Need (Gear)
To make the best trail mix, gather these kitchen essentials:
- Mixing bowl: A large bowl for combining all your ingredients.
- Measuring cups: To ensure you get the right proportions for each ingredient.
- Storage container: An airtight container for keeping your trail mix fresh.
Build The Best Trail Mix (Made with Only 5 Ingredients!) Step by Step

Making The Best Trail Mix (Made with Only 5 Ingredients!) is a breeze! Follow these simple steps:
Step 1: Gather Ingredients
Start by measuring out your ingredients. You’ll need 1 cup each of raw cashews, raw almonds, shelled pistachios, dried cranberries, and chocolate chips.
Step 2: Mix It Up
In a large mixing bowl, combine all the measured ingredients. Use a spatula or your hands to mix everything until evenly distributed.
Step 3: Taste Test
Before you store your trail mix, take a moment to taste it! Adjust the proportions if you want more of a particular ingredient, like adding extra chocolate chips for a sweeter mix.
Step 4: Store Properly
Transfer your trail mix to an airtight container. This will help keep it fresh and crunchy. Store it in a cool, dry place or in the refrigerator for maximum freshness.
Holiday & Seasonal Touches

Want to get festive? Here are some fun ideas to customize your trail mix for the holidays or different seasons:
- Add dried figs or apricots for a fruity touch.
- Include pumpkin seeds in the fall for added crunch and nutrition.
- Incorporate mini marshmallows or seasonal candies around the holidays for a sweet twist.
- Swap out the chocolate chips for yogurt-covered raisins in the summer for a lighter taste.
Testing Timeline
When making The Best Trail Mix (Made with Only 5 Ingredients!), you can expect the following timeline:
- Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Mixing time: 5 minutes
- Storage time: Indefinitely if kept in an airtight container!
Store, Freeze & Reheat
To ensure your trail mix stays fresh and tasty, follow these tips:
You can store your trail mix in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Just make sure to use a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy it, there’s no need to reheat; simply take it out of the freezer and let it sit for a few minutes before snacking.
Reader Q&A
Can I use different nuts in this trail mix?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with your favorite nuts like walnuts, pecans, or hazelnuts. Just make sure they are raw and unsalted for the best flavor.
Is it possible to make this trail mix vegan?
This trail mix is already vegan-friendly since it contains no animal products. Enjoy it guilt-free!
How can I make this trail mix healthier?
To reduce sugar, consider using dark chocolate chips or unsweetened dried fruit. You can also add seeds like chia or sunflower for more nutrients.
Can I make this trail mix ahead of time?
Yes! You can make a big batch of The Best Trail Mix (Made with Only 5 Ingredients!) and store it for later. It’s a great snack to have on hand for busy days.
Keep Cooking
If you love this trail mix, you might also enjoy these delicious recipes:
- Caramel Popcorn Snack Mix With White Chocolate Drizzle for a sweet treat.
- Try your hand at homemade granola for a breakfast option!
- Check out a savory nut mix for a different flavor profile.
Final Thoughts
Trail mix is such a versatile snack that can easily be tailored to suit your preferences. With The Best Trail Mix (Made with Only 5 Ingredients!), you’ll always have a tasty, energizing snack at your fingertips. This simple recipe is perfect for sharing with family and friends or keeping all to yourself! So gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a mix of flavors that will keep you coming back for more. Happy snacking!
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The Best Trail Mix (Made with Only 5 Ingredients!)
Ingredients
- 1 cup raw cashews
- 1 cup raw almonds
- 1 cup pistachios (shelled)
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- 1 cup chocolate chips
Instructions
- Start by measuring out your ingredients. You'll need 1 cup each of raw cashews, raw almonds, shelled pistachios, dried cranberries, and chocolate chips.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine all the measured ingredients. Use a spatula or your hands to mix everything until evenly distributed.
- Before you store your trail mix, take a moment to taste it! Adjust the proportions if you want more of a particular ingredient, like adding extra chocolate chips for a sweeter mix.
- Transfer your trail mix to an airtight container. This will help keep it fresh and crunchy. Store it in a cool, dry place or in the refrigerator for maximum freshness.
Equipment
- Mixing Bowl
- Measuring Cups
- Storage container
Notes
- Store your trail mix in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
- For longer storage, consider freezing it in a freezer-safe container.
- Feel free to customize with your favorite nuts or dried fruits.
