Trail mix is a delicious snack that gives a great burst of energy, especially when you need that 4pm pick-me-up! It’s also a satisfying snack to take when you’re on the go.
Since most trail mixes use 3-4 different types of nuts, the fat and calorie count can be quite high. Also, there tends to be a lot of dried fruit in some trail mixes, which makes them high in sugar.
My recipe uses raw, unroasted almonds as the primary ingredient. Almonds are actually the seeds of the fruit, cultivated from the almond tree. They are packed with Vitamin E, Calcium, Phosphorus, Iron, and Magnesium.
Almonds also contain a highly absorbable protein, making it easy for the body to benefit from their nutrients. They also have a high amino acid content, making it a high-quality protein source.
Would you believe that almonds have more calcium than any other nut? That, plus the fact that they’re one of the lowest calorie nuts, makes almonds one of my favorite nuts to use in recipes.
If you can, stay away from roasted almonds, because unless specifically stated, they’re not dry-roasted. Nope! They’re roasted in oil, which, as you know, raises the calorie count quite a bit. If raw almonds aren’t available, the next best thing is dry roasted.
WARNING! This homemade trail mix is HIGHLY ADDICTIVE! It also has magical disappearing qualities…
Here’s the recipe - enjoy!
Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
To a bowl, add:
-2 cups raw unsalted almonds
-1 cup raw unsalted pumpkin seeds
-¼ cup hemp seeds
-2 Tbsp. maple syrup
-1 tsp. cinnamon
-¼ cup Goji berries
-¼ cup Mulberries or golden berries
Mix the first 5 ingredients in a bowl, then pour them onto a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Evenly distribute the mix.
Bake for 20 minutes.
Check the trail mix after 20 minutes. Make sure the nuts and seeds have a nice crunch. If you want them crunchier, bake for another 5 minutes.
Remove from oven and transport to a big bowl. Mix in the Goji berries and Mulberries.
Let cool, and store in a sealed glass container. If you manage to have any leftovers, that is!
