‘Tis the Season for Snacking: Holiday Trail Mix 3 Ways

Here in Ann Arbor, winter came with no time wasted. On Halloween night, flurries clung to the costumes of children and college students alike, and only a week later, I found myself trudging to class through several inches of snow. With the dropping temperatures, I’m craving comforting holiday treats more than ever. And so, never one to be patient when it comes to food, I developed three holiday trail mix blends to bring the festive flavors of the winter season right to my dorm room.

These trail mix combos are the perfect on-the-go snack for in between classes, and they can take your oatmeal and yogurt bowls up a notch, too. The recipes below make small batches, but if you’re in the spirit of giving, feel free to double or triple the given quantities and fill up small mason jars to make a last-minute gift for friends. 

First up is Hot Chocolate Trail Mix, a sweet and nostalgic blend reminiscent of the snow days of my childhood, when I’d rush into the kitchen after sledding, cheeks flushed from the cold, and eagerly sip hot cocoa until the rich liquid filled my belly with warmth. Add some peppermint flakes or bits of crushed candy cane for a fun twist that’ll keep you alert during long afternoons of classes.

Hot Chocolate Trail Mix

Difficulty:BeginnerPrep time: 3 minutesCook time: minutesTotal time: 3 minutesServings:3 servings

Ingredients

• 1/4 cup cashews
• 2 tbsp almonds
• 2 tbsp chocolate chips
• 1 tbsp unsweetened coconut flakes
• 1 tbsp mini marshmallows
• optional peppermint flakes

Instructions

If you’re looking for something a little heartier, this “Reindeer Food” Trail Mix is for you. No one knows for sure what the magical reindeer at the North Pole eat, but I think it would be hard for anyone to resist this combination of sweet apple chips, juicy raisins, and crunchy nuts and seeds. For an extra savory touch, sprinkle in some dried rosemary leaves. 

“Reindeer Food” Trail Mix

Difficulty:BeginnerPrep time: 3 minutesCook time: minutesTotal time: 3 minutesServings:3 servings

Ingredients

• 1/4 cup peanuts
• 2 tbsp pumpkin seeds
• 2 tbsp apple chips
• 1 tbsp raisins
• 1 tbsp almonds
• optional 1/8 tsp dried rosemary leaves

Instructions

Finally, it wouldn’t be the holidays without the sweet and spicy punch of gingerbread, so this last recipe incorporates all the makings of a spectacular gingerbread house. Made with a base of graham crackers and studded with dried cranberries, this mix will transport you to a scrumptious winter wonderland. 

Gingerbread House Trail Mix

Difficulty:BeginnerPrep time: 3 minutesCook time: minutesTotal time: 3 minutesServings:3 servings

Ingredients

• 1/4 cup crushed graham crackers
• 2 tbsp pecans
• 2 tbsp almonds
• 1 tbsp white chocolate chips
• 1 tbsp shredded coconut
• 1 tbsp dried cranberries
• 1/8 tsp pumpkin pie spice

Instructions

As the days get shorter and the skies get gloomier, I hope these holiday trail mix recipes will help keep your inner Grinch at bay. After all, whether you’re studying for finals or unwinding with a Hallmark holiday movie marathon, good snacks are always a reason to be merry. 

• Christmas
• Hanukkah
• Snack
• Vegetarian