The Ultimate Fruit and Nut Trail Mix Recipe (DASH-Friendly & Addictive)

Stop settling for stale, store-bought bags filled with fillers. This homemade fruit and nut trail mix recipe delivers a shatteringly crisp crunch and warm cinnamon hug in every handful. It’s the perfect balance of sweet, nutty, and satisfying that makes snacking feel like a special occasion.

I know the feeling of needing a snack that just hits the spot without leaving you rummaging through the pantry ten minutes later. As the “Empathetic Kitchen Hacker,” my goal is always to find that sweet spot between nourishing and absolutely delicious. This mix is my answer to the mid-afternoon slump—it’s crunchy, just sweet enough, and incredibly comforting.

If you are new to tracking what goes into your body, pairing this snack with a little knowledge can be a game changer. Many of my readers find that learning the basics of counting macros helps them appreciate how a balanced mix of fats and carbs can keep them feeling steady and full.

Why This Mix is a Pantry Hero

• Sensory Overload (The Good Kind): We roast the nuts before adding the fruit, creating a deep, toasted flavor profile that raw mixes just can’t compete with. The cinnamon blooms in the oven, making your kitchen smell like a bakery.
• Texture Heaven: It combines the snap of roasted almonds and banana chips with the chewy sweetness of apricots and cranberries. Every bite is a new adventure.
• Totally Customizable: While this version is designed as a DASH-friendly, no salt trail mix with cinnamon, you can easily swap nuts or fruits based on what you have hiding in your cupboards.

Crafting the Perfect Roast

The secret to a truly healthy homemade trail mix is roasting the nuts and seeds separately from the fruit. Dried fruit can turn hard and bitter if exposed to high heat, so we give the almonds, cashews, walnuts, and pumpkin seeds a head start.

I toss them with a generous dusting of cinnamon—no sugar needed here!—and roast until they are fragrant. The aroma is your best timer; when the nutty scent hits you, they are ready. Once they cool (this is crucial for that crunchy roasted trail mix texture), we fold in the jewels: golden raisins, cranberries, and banana chips.

Note on Dietary Swaps: This recipe celebrates natural fruit sugars. However, if you have family members who are strictly watching their carb intake or following a ketogenic lifestyle, this fruit-heavy mix might not fit their goals. For them, I highly recommend whipping up a batch of this crispy Keto Granola instead—it satisfies that same crunch craving without the higher carb count from the dried fruit.

Pairings and Serving Ideas

I love keeping a jar of this on the counter for grab-and-go moments, but it also shines as a topping. Sprinkle a handful over your morning yogurt or oatmeal for added texture. If you want a fuller breakfast options, it pairs beautifully with one of these irresistible smoothie recipes. The creaminess of a smoothie alongside the crunch of this mix is a texture match made in heaven.

If you are looking to expand your snack rotation with more fruit-forward options that kids and adults both love, try these revitalized apple slices with cinnamon dip. They share that same cozy spice profile and are just as fun to eat.

Expert Tips for Success

• Cool Completely: Do not rush the cooling process! If you mix the dried fruit with hot nuts, the fruit will steam and the nuts will lose their crispness. Patience pays off in crunch.
• Watch the Oven: Nuts go from “perfectly toasted” to “burnt tragedy” in about 60 seconds. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes of roasting.
• Storage Matters: Store your mix in an airtight glass jar or container. It keeps the moisture out and preserves that delightful snap for up to 5 days.

Ultimate Crunchy Fruit & Nut Trail Mix

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Dive into this irresistible blend of toasted nuts, seeds, and naturally sweet dried fruits—your go-to snack for a quick energy lift with a cozy hint of cinnamon that brings out the best in every bite, no extra salt needed. Drawing inspiration from heart-smart eating styles like the DASH pattern, it’s a wholesome treat that’s as satisfying as it is simple to whip up.

• Prep Time: 12 minutes
• Cook Time: 14 minutes
• Total Time: 44 minutes
• Yield: 12 servings 1x

Ingredients

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Nuts & Seeds:

• 3/8 cup 6 tablespoons raw almonds
• 3/8 cup 6 tablespoons raw cashews
• 3/8 cup 6 tablespoons raw walnut halves
• 1/3 cup 5 tablespoons + 1 teaspoon raw pumpkin seeds (pepitas)

Spices:

• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Dried Fruits:

• 3/8 cup 6 tablespoons golden raisins
• 3/8 cup 6 tablespoons dried cranberries (preferably unsweetened or reduced sugar, if available)
• 3/8 cup 6 tablespoons dried apricots (quartered or diced if large)
• 3/8 cup 6 tablespoons banana chips

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Instructions

1. Prepare for Roasting: Set your oven to preheat to 340∘F (170∘C). Prepare a baking sheet, lining it with parchment paper if desired for easier cleanup.
2. Season the Nuts and Seeds: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the raw almonds, cashews, walnut halves, and pumpkin seeds. Sprinkle the ground cinnamon over the mixture. Toss thoroughly until the nuts and seeds are evenly coated with the spice.
3. Roast the Mixture: Spread the seasoned nut and seed mixture in a single, even layer onto the prepared baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding to ensure even toasting.
4. Toast Until Fragrant: Place the baking sheet into the preheated oven. Roast for 12-15 minutes. About halfway through the roasting time (around 6-7 minutes), stir the mixture gently to promote even browning. Continue to roast until the nuts and seeds are fragrant and lightly golden. Keep a vigilant eye during the last few minutes to prevent burning, as nuts can toast quickly.
5. Cool Completely: Once toasted, carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven. Allow the roasted nuts and seeds to cool completely on the baking sheet or transfer them to a wire rack to expedite cooling. This step is crucial for achieving a crunchy texture.
6. Combine All Ingredients: After the roasted nuts and seeds have fully cooled, transfer them to a large mixing bowl. Add the golden raisins, dried cranberries, diced dried apricots, and banana chips to the bowl. Stir gently with a spoon or spatula until all the ingredients are well distributed throughout the medley.

Notes

Make Ahead & Storage: This Ultimate Fruit-and-Nut Power Trail Mix can be prepared in advance. Store the cooled mixture in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain its freshness and crunch. For the best quality and flavor, it is recommended to consume it within 5 days.

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Nutrition Facts (1/4 cup, 12 servings, yield about 3 cups): Calories: 139 kcal | Total Fat: 8.7 g (Saturated Fat: 1.5 g (estimation, varies with banana chip oil), Unsaturated Fat: 7.2 g (estimation)) | Sodium: 2.6 mg | Potassium: 150 to 200 mg (depending on specific ingredients) | Magnesium: 30 to 40 mg (depending on specific ingredients) | Total Carbs: 14.5 g (Fiber: 2.1 g, Sugars: 9.2 g (primarily from dried fruits; using unsweetened dried cranberries and apricots will reduce this)) | Protein: 3.6 g

These values are approximate and may vary based on ingredients and preparation.

Nutrition

• Calories: 139

I hope this mix brings a little extra joy and crunch to your day! It is such a simple way to treat yourself to something wholesome without spending hours in the kitchen.

Disclaimer: I’m just a mom and food enthusiast sharing recipes that work for my family, not a nutritionist. Always listen to your own body and consult a professional when making dietary changes!