There’s something magical about a handful of the perfect trail mix—it’s crunchy, chewy, a little sweet, and just salty enough to keep you coming back for more.
This Nutty Trail Mix with Dark Chocolate has become one of my favorite go-to snacks for road trips, hikes, or just afternoon pick-me-ups.
It comes together in minutes, uses wholesome ingredients, and keeps beautifully all week.
Plus, that bit of dark chocolate? A total treat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Wholesome and energizing – Packed with healthy fats, fiber, and antioxidants.
Quick and easy – Just toss everything in a bowl and stir.
Perfectly balanced – Sweet, salty, crunchy, and chewy in every bite.
No added sugar – Naturally sweetened with dates and dried fruit.
Meal prep friendly – Makes enough to portion for the whole week.
Customizable – Swap in your favorite nuts, seeds, or dried fruit.
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Raw almonds and walnuts – Nutty base that adds crunch and heart-healthy fats.
Raw pumpkin and sunflower seeds – Rich in minerals, texture, and subtle flavor.
Dried cranberries – Sweet, tart, and chewy for balance.
Dark chocolate chunks – A little indulgence that pairs perfectly with nuts.
Medjool dates – Natural caramel-like sweetness and chewy texture.
Sea salt – Enhances all the flavors with just a pinch.
Pro Tips Before You Start
Use raw, unsalted nuts to control the flavor and avoid overpowering saltiness.
Chop the dates small so they don’t clump together.
Mix gently to avoid breaking the nuts or chocolate.
Double the batch for parties, road trips, or gifting.
Add-ins to try – Coconut flakes, goji berries, or puffed quinoa for variety.
How to Make Nutty Trail Mix with Dark Chocolate
Step 1: Prep the Dates
Remove the pits from the medjool dates and chop each one into about 8 small pieces.
Step 2: Combine the Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, add the almonds, walnuts, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, cranberries, chocolate chunks, and chopped dates. Stir gently to combine.
Step 3: Add Sea Salt
Sprinkle sea salt evenly over the mixture and stir again so it’s well distributed.
Step 4: Store and Snack
Transfer the mix to an airtight container.
Store in the fridge for freshness or keep in the pantry.
What to Serve It With
A scoop over yogurt or smoothie bowls
As a topping for oatmeal
With cheese and fruit on a snack board
Packed in lunchboxes or travel jars
Alongside coffee or afternoon tea
Variations / Substitutions
Use pecans or cashews in place of almonds or walnuts
Swap cranberries for raisins, cherries, or chopped apricots
Add cinnamon or cocoa nibs for extra flavor
Use mini chocolate chips instead of chunks
Make it nut-free with only seeds and fruit
Storage & Leftovers
Fridge: Store in a sealed container for up to 2 weeks for ultimate freshness.
Pantry: Keep in a cool, dry place for up to 1 week.
To-go: Portion into small jars or bags for snacks on the go.
Avoid moisture and direct sunlight to keep it crisp.
FAQs
Can I toast the nuts before mixing?
Yes! Lightly toasting adds depth of flavor, but let them cool before combining.
Can I make this without chocolate?
Absolutely. Just add more dried fruit or seeds for sweetness.
Is this trail mix vegan?
Yes, if you use vegan-friendly dark chocolate.
Can I use roasted nuts instead of raw?
You can, but choose unsalted versions to control the flavor.
Is it gluten-free?
Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
How long does it stay fresh?
About 1–2 weeks in the fridge or up to 1 week in the pantry.
Can I freeze trail mix?
Yes! Freeze in a zip-top bag for up to 3 months. Let it come to room temp before eating.
Final Thoughts
This Nutty Trail Mix with Dark Chocolate is a snack that hits every craving—sweet, salty, crunchy, and satisfying.
I always keep a jar on my kitchen counter or toss a handful into my bag when I’m on the go.
It’s the kind of snack you feel good about eating and never get bored of!
