This vegan trail mix snack recipe is super fast and simple to prepare. Trail mix is the ideal plant-based snack for when you need a quick energy boost or afternoon pick-me-up and especially good for whenever you feel like going off on an adventure like Tolkien's Hobbit Bilbo Baggins! It's best to take tasty snack supplies especially for second breakfasts and elevenses!
Celebrating the 100th day of school? Use our trail mix post for ingredient ideas, helpful tips for storing home-made trail mix, and more!
Origins of trail mix
Trail mix, traditionally known as GORP (Good Old Raisins and Peanuts), is primarily a mixture of dried fruits and nuts, with old recipes often including grains or chocolate drops, was originally created as a food for hikers. The convenience of this non-perishable, lightweight, and energy-dense food made it ideal sustenance for outdoor activities.
The origins of trail mix are somewhat disputed, but the concept of mixing together convenient, energy-rich foods for travel dates back many centuries. For example, Native Americans developed a trail food called pemmican, made from a mixture of meat, fat, and berries.
As for the modern version of trail mix, many attribute its invention to Horace Kephart, a popular outdoorsman and nature writer, who in his guidebook "The Book of Camping and Woodcraft" (first published in 1906), recommended a ration for campers and hikers consisting of a mix of nuts, raisins, and chocolate.
However, the term "trail mix" is a bit more recent, with the earliest recorded usage appearing in print in the US around the late 1960s or early 1970s. The concept quickly spread in popularity as a healthy snack option, whether for hiking, backpacking, or even just for a snack during the day.
National Trail Mix Day
There is even a day in honour of trail mix - National Trail Mix Day which is held each year on the 31st August. This is the perfect excuse to prep some trail mix and go off on an adventure.
Dried fruit in the medieval times
Dried fruits were a common food in medieval times. They were an important part of the diet. The process of drying fruit, which could be as simple as leaving them out in the sun, allowed people to preserve the food for much longer periods than the fresh produce would normally last.
Common dried fruits in the Middle Ages included dates, figs, currants, raisins (dried grapes), and prunes (dried plums). These fruits were often used in a variety of dishes, from stews, soups, and savoury pies.
Savoury medieval pies would contain meat, dried fruits such as dates, prunes and currants, spices such as mace, cloves and ginger, and even sugar.
Dried fruits were also included at the end of meals as part of dessert recipes called digestives. For example apples and pears would be roasted along with spices, dried fruits such as raisins and dates and some sugar.
Dried fruits would also have been enjoyed as a snack but its important to note that these ingredients were very expensive as they had to be imported, so it was mainly the wealthy medieval population that could have such meals.
Trade also played a significant role in the spread and consumption of dried fruits during the medieval period. Traders from the Middle East, where the climate was particularly suited for drying fruits, would carry these items along the Silk Road and other trade routes to Europe.
In addition, dried fruits had a role in medieval medicine. They were part of the diet prescribed by physicians to balance the "humours" in the body, a dominant medical theory of the time. For example, dried figs were considered good for restoring one's health after illness because they were thought to be warming and moistening, and would help to cleanse the body of disease.
Medieval trail mix
For fun, if you would like to create a medieval style trail mix then choose dried fruits that were popular during the medieval times such as - prunes, dates, figs, raisins, and currants - and possibly dried apples and pears.
What nuts could I include in a medieval trail mix?
In medieval Europe, the availability of nuts varied by region and season, but there were several types that were commonly consumed. Here are a few examples:
Hazelnuts: These were one of the most common nuts in Europe during the medieval period, especially in the British Isles and Northern Europe.
Walnuts: Walnuts were also widespread and used for many recipes.
Chestnuts: In many parts of Europe, chestnuts were abundant and formed a significant part of the diet, especially for people in regions like Italy and France.
Almonds: Almonds were popular, particularly in the Mediterranean and British Isles. They were used in a variety of dishes, both sweet and savory. Almond milk was also a common substitute for animal milk during fasting periods.
Pine Nuts: Pine nuts, harvested from certain species of pine trees, were commonly used in the cooking of the Mediterranean regions.
Acorns: Although not typically thought of as a nut in modern culinary terms, acorns were also used as a food source, especially in times of scarcity. They require significant processing to remove tannins and make them edible.
The availability of these nuts would have depended on local ecosystems and trade connections. While nuts like hazelnuts and chestnuts might have been gathered from wild trees in some areas, others like almonds and pine nuts would have been more commonly traded. The use of nuts would also have varied widely based on social class, as some nuts were more expensive than others.
The benefits of trail mix
Trail mix is an amazing healthy snack that is simple to prepare and ready to enjoy almost instantly. The high fibre content of the nuts and dried fruits can satisfy your hunger, minimising the desire to reach for more refined treats. Consuming enough food to feel full is a regular difficulty for people who are new to plant-based and vegan diets.
This problem can be helped by including more nutrient-dense, high-calorie foods like trail mix. A 40g serving of trail mix, for example, contains about 155 calories. These plant-based calories may lead to a better sense of fullness.
Many people worry about the high fat content of nuts but according to plant-based Dr Gregor the fat content in nuts is not fully absorbed and that people who eat a handful of nuts a day can actually end up loosing weight as their metabolisms receive a boost! Great news!
How to prepare Easy Trail Mix
Trail mix is one of the easiest snacks to prepare and doesn't really require a recipe as any dried fruits, nuts and seeds can be added in any quantity. But of course, those new to home-made trail mixes might like a guide to start them off on their trail mix journey!
First, all the ingredients -dried fruits, nuts, seeds, and perhaps chocolate chips or drops - are weighed out and added to a bowl.
Next, the individual ingredients are mixed together and decanted into an air-tight food container. That's it! That's all there is to creating the best trail mix.
Recipe notes and frequently asked questions
Storing home-made trail mix
Homemade trail mix should be stored properly to maintain its freshness and prevent the ingredients from becoming stale. Here are some tips on how to store your trail mix:
Airtight Container: Storing the trail mix in an airtight container can protect it from oxygen and humidity.
Cool, Dark Place: Store the airtight container in a cool, dark place. Light and heat can also accelerate the oxidation process, leading to stale nuts and seeds.
Refrigeration: If you want to extend the shelf life even further, especially in warmer climates, consider refrigerating the trail mix. The cool temperature slows down oxidation, and the dark, consistent environment of the fridge is great for storage.
Separate Storage: If you're not planning to consume the trail mix soon, you might want to consider storing the ingredients separately, especially the dried fruit and more perishable items like coconut shards, and mix them together as needed. This is because the different components of trail mix can have different shelf lives, and the moisture from dried fruit can affect the other ingredients.
Properly Dried: Ensure all components of the trail mix are thoroughly dried before mixing and storing.
Freshness Date: Keep a note of when you made the trail mix or when the individual ingredients were opened. Even with the best storage methods, nuts, seeds, and dried fruit will eventually start to lose their freshness.
Remember, if the trail mix develops an off smell or the nuts and seeds taste bitter or sour, it's best to discard it as these are signs that the mix is past its best.
Any nuts you have to hand or are easily available are perfect for trail mixes, including mixed nuts and broken nuts which are usually less expensive.
Almonds: Almonds are a great choice as they are rich in healthy fats, protein, and vitamin E.
Walnuts: Walnuts are known for their omega-3 fatty acid content and provide a slightly bitter flavor.
Cashews: Cashews have a creamy texture and mild taste and provide a good amount of vitamins and minerals.
Peanuts: Although technically a legume, peanuts are often included in trail mixes. They are affordable, have a slightly sweet taste, and offer protein and monounsaturated fats.
Pecans: Pecans have a rich, buttery flavor and are a good source of antioxidants and healthy fats. Although lately these type of nuts have been very expensive in the UK.
Hazelnuts: Hazelnuts provide a delicious, slightly sweet flavor and are packed with nutrients like vitamin E, folate, and healthy fats.
Pistachios: Pistachios have a unique taste and are rich in fiber, protein, and healthy fats.
Brazils: Brazil nuts are another popular choice for trail mixes. They are large, creamy-textured nuts that have a rich, slightly sweet flavor.
Any dried fruits that are readily available or that you may have in your pantry are perfect for home-made trail mixes.
There are so many dried fruits that countless varieties of trail mix can be created.
For larger dried fruits such as prunes, figs and apricots do chop these up into smaller pieces before adding to your trail mix.
Raisins: Raisins are a classic choice for trail mixes. They are sweet, chewy, and versatile. You can opt for regular raisins or explore different varieties like golden raisins [sultanas] or even dried currants.
Cranberries: Dried cranberries provide a tart and tangy flavour that balances well with nuts. They are also rich in antioxidants.
Apricots: Dried apricots have a sweet and slightly tangy taste. They offer a chewy texture and are a good source of fiber and vitamins.
Dates: Dates are naturally sweet and have a caramel-like flavour. They are soft and chewy, making them a great addition to trail mixes.
Dried Mango: Dried mango slices offer a tropical twist to your trail mix. They are sweet, tangy, and can provide a burst of flavour.
Blueberries: Dried blueberries are small, sweet, and packed with antioxidants. They can add a burst of fruity flavour to your mix.
Cherries: Dried cherries offer a sweet and slightly tart flavour. They have a chewy texture and are rich in antioxidants.
Goji Berries: Goji berries are small, bright red dried fruits that have a slightly sweet and tangy taste. They are packed with plant-based nutrition.
Mulberries: Dried mulberries have a slight tart but sweet flavour. They are chewy and provide a good source of vitamins and minerals.
Papaya: Dried papaya has a tropical and mildly sweet taste. It adds a vibrant color and flavor to trail mixes.
Fig: Dried figs are naturally sweet and have a rich, honey-like flavour. They are chewy and offer a good source of fiber.
Mango: Dried mango is sweet, tangy, and has a tropical flavour. It has a chewy texture and is a good source of vitamins and minerals.
Banana Chips: While not technically a dried fruit, banana chips are a popular addition to trail mixes. They are crispy and provide a sweet and tropical taste.
Apple: Dried apple slices are slightly chewy with a sweet and tangy flavour. They can add a hint of crispness to your trail mix.
Peach: Dried peach slices are sweet, slightly tangy, and offer a soft, chewy texture. They can provide a burst of fruity flavour.
Pear: Dried pear slices have a naturally sweet and subtle flavour. They are chewy and can complement other dried fruits and nuts in your trail mix.
Pineapple: Dried pineapple chunks or rings have a tropical, sweet taste. They are chewy and can add a refreshing twist to your trail mix.
Coconut Flakes: Dried coconut flakes are not technically a fruit, but they can be a delicious addition to trail mixes. They offer a slightly sweet and nutty flavor along with a crispy texture.
Prunes: Dried prunes, also known as dried plums, are sweet and have a rich, sticky texture. They are a good source of fiber and can add natural sweetness to your trail mix.
Larger seeds are best for a home-made trail mix, as smaller seeds such as chia, sesame and poppy seeds are difficult to pick up with your fingers and eat easily. Keep these seeds for sprinkling on your home-made porridge or oatmeal.
Sunflower Seeds: Sunflower seeds are a classic addition to trail mixes. They are packed with nutrients like vitamin E, healthy fats, and protein. They have a mild, nutty taste and a crunchy texture.
Pumpkin Seeds: Pumpkin seeds, also known as pepitas, are rich in healthy fats, protein, and various minerals. They have a creamy, nutty flavour and provide a nice crunch.
Hemp Seeds: Hemp seeds are highly nutritious, containing a good balance of essential fatty acids, protein, and minerals. They have a mild, nutty flavor and a soft texture.
Apart from nuts, seeds and dried fruits, here is a list of ingredients that could also be added to a home-made trail mix to keep it interesting and delicious:
Whole Grains: Add whole grain cereal like toasted oats, puffed rice, or quinoa flakes for added fiber and crunch. Or a handful of your favourite breakfast cereal of granola.
Dark Chocolate: Add some dark chocolate chunks or chips for a touch of sweetness and tastiness. Dark chocolate is rich in antioxidants.
Pretzels: Mini vegan pretzels or pretzel sticks can offer a savory and crunchy texture.
Vegan Yogurt-Covered Treats: Include small portions of yogurt-covered raisins, cranberries, or other dried fruits for a creamy and tangy flavor.
Spices: Sprinkle some spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or pumpkin spice for added warmth and aroma. These spices can complement the flavors in your trail mix.
Roasted Chickpeas: Roasted chickpeas are a protein-packed option that can provide a crunchy texture and savory taste. Roasted fava beans and roasted peas can also be purchased in small packets from many stores and health shops.
Protein-Rich Additions: Consider including protein-rich additions like small protein bars, protein balls, protein bites, etc and chop up any large pieces.
Freeze-Dried Fruit: Freeze-dried fruits retain their natural flavors and textures while being lightweight. They can add a tasty crunch and vibrant taste to your trail mix.
Popcorn: Air-popped popcorn can be a light and crispy addition to your trail mix. You can add a sprinkle of spices or a drizzle of melted dark chocolate for extra flavour. Allow the chocolate to set before mixing through the trail mix.
Nibs: Cacao nibs are crushed cacao beans and they offer a rich, chocolatey flavor and can add a slight crunch to your trail mix.
Your favourite small sweets or candy can also be added to a home-made trail mix and although this is not the most healthy choice it can be a fun way to create a special holiday themed trail-mix especially for Halloween, Easter, Christmas, 100 days of school celebration, etc.
Trail mix is a versatile snack that can be enjoyed in various ways beyond just eating it straight from the bag. Here are some creative ideas for using trail mix:
Vegan Yogurt Topping: Sprinkle trail mix over your favorite vegan yogurt for added crunch, texture, and flavour. A sprinkle of trail mix over a chia pudding is also a tasty addition.
Smoothie Bowl Topping: Use trail mix as a topping for your smoothie bowl to add a crunchy element. Simply sprinkle it on top along with fresh fruits and other toppings for a tasty combination of textures.
Salad Enhancement: Incorporate trail mix into your salads for added crunch and flavour. It can provide a contrast of textures alongside fresh vegetables, leafy greens, and your choice of dressing.
Baked Goods: Incorporate trail mix into baked goods like cookies, muffins, flapjacks, or energy bars.
Granola Mix-In: Add trail mix to your homemade granola for an extra dose of flavor and texture. It can enhance the nuttiness and crunchiness of the granola.
Trail Mix Trail Mix: Yes, you can create your own unique trail mix by combining different varieties of your home-made trail mixes. Mix and match your favorite ingredients to create a custom blend tailored to your preferences.
Gifting: Package your homemade trail mix in decorative jars or bags and gift it to friends, family, teachers, or coworkers. It makes for a thoughtful and personalized gift option. Just make sure that there are no specific food allergies before gifting especially if the trail mix includes nuts.
The 100th day of school is a common milestone celebrated in US elementary schools, often marked with various activities centered around the number 100.
A 100th day trail mix is a popular activity that involves students making a trail mix using 100 items.
In this activity ten different types of ingredients are chosen, and the students add ten pieces of each ingredient, which results in a total of 100 pieces.
This fun activity helps students practice counting to 100 and introduces them to the concept of fractions and proportions, as each ingredient represents 1/10 of the total mix.
More easy vegan snack recipes
These are some of our favourite family snacks these amazing Crispy Tofu Bites which we love dipping into some sweet chilli sauce or ketchup for a quick snack, or a few of these crisp traditional Scottish Oatcakes which store well in a tin and are delicious with vegan cheese slices, fresh salad and chutney, and my kids especially love a slice of this easy vintage Peanut Butter Bread spread with well more peanut butter! Try a slice toasted under the grill [broiler], so good!
And I particularly love one of these Buttermilk Scones as they are just the best softest and lightest scone out there! These scones are perfect either with a slab of jam or a slice of vegan cheese, so good for both sweet and savoury fillings depending on your current snack mood!
***please note: for US measurements click the 'US customary button' within the recipe and the measurements will switch to tablespoons, cups, and ounces.***
Recipe
Vegan Trail Mix
Equipment
- Airtight container
Ingredients
- 130 grams cashews broken or left whole, or brazils, almonds, pecans etc,
- 20 grams coconut flakes or dried coconut chunks.
- 60 grams raisins or cranberries, sultanas, currants, goji berries
- 50 grams walnuts halved or quartered
- 50 grams dried mango chopped, or dried apricots or papaya
- 65 grams dried dates chopped
- 100 grams vegan chocolate chips or a block of vegan chocolate chopped into pieces, or use cacao nibs
Instructions
- Add the cashews, walnuts, raisins, coconut shards, mango, dates and chocolate drops to a bowl. and stir to mix it all together.130 grams cashews, 20 grams coconut flakes, 60 grams raisins, 50 grams walnuts, 50 grams dried mango, 65 grams dried dates, 100 grams vegan chocolate chips
- Decant the trail mix into an airtight container.
- Keep dry and in a cool, dark place such as a food cupboard or pantry, and the trail mix should store well for many months.
Notes
- Nutritional information is provided for guidance only and is not a strict calculation as ingredients vary.
- This recipe prepares around 475g trail mix.
- Store trail mix within an airtight container in a cool, dry area and it should keep for many months.
- Any of your favourite nuts, dried fruits, and seeds can be used for tasty trail mix.
- Try adding some of your favourite breakfast cereals or granola for addition crunch.
- Check out our recipe notes and FAQ section for more helpful information including ingredient ideas to add to a trail mix so that you can customize your own individual trail mix.
- Taking part in a 100th day of school activity? Use our trail mix recipe as a basis and add an extra three ingredients to take it up to a 10 ingredient trail mix and you'll be on your way to creating the best trail mix ever.
Nutrition
Thank you for trying out our Easy Vegan Trail Mix! We hope you enjoyed making and munching it as much as we do.
If you tried this recipe, please let us know in the comments below how it turned out for you, or if you made any modifications.
If you share your creations on social media, don't forget to tag us (@traditionalplantbasedcooking) and use the hashtag #traditionalplantbasedcooking, so we can see your delicious dishes!
Lastly, if you found this recipe helpful, please share it with your friends and family, so they can enjoy it too.
Thank you, and happy cooking!
Love, Jacq x
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