When you’re on a keto journey, snacks often feel like the forbidden fruit—or, well, the forbidden nut. But fear not!
This trail mix is like a symphony of flavors and textures, offering crunchy nuts, seeds that pop, and just the right amount of sweetness. It’s like the snack version of that favorite pair of jeans you never want to take off.
So, whether you’re hiking through the woods or just your living room, this mix has got your back.
Steps
- Begin by toasting the unsweetened coconut chips in a small non-stick skillet over medium-low heat, stirring frequently to ensure even toasting until they are lightly golden, which should take about 7-8 minutes. Once toasted, set the coconut chips aside to cool completely.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the dry-roasted almonds, raw pistachios, dry-roasted sunflower seeds, cooled coconut chips, unsweetened dried cranberries, and sugar-free chocolate chips. Toss the mixture thoroughly until all ingredients are well blended.
- Transfer the finished trail mix into a large mason jar or an airtight container for storage. Keep the container at room temperature to maintain freshness, and enjoy your keto trail mix as a convenient snack whenever you need a quick energy boost.
Ingredients
- ½ cup dry-roasted almonds, unsalted
- ½ cup raw pistachios, shelled
- ¼ cup dry-roasted sunflower seeds, unsalted
- ½ cup unsweetened coconut chips
- ½ cup unsweetened dried cranberries
- ? cup sugar-free chocolate chips
Nutritional Values
Calories: 1520 kcal | Carbohydrates: 90 g | Protein: 40 g | Fat: 120 g | Saturated Fat: 40 g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 30 g | Monounsaturated Fat: 40 g | Trans Fat: 0.01 g | Sodium: 130 mg | Potassium: 1660 mg | Fiber: 30 g | Sugar: 10 g | Vitamin A: 260 IU | Vitamin C: 5 mg | Calcium: 290 mg | Iron: 10 mg
FAQ
- Is trail mix high in carbohydrates?
- Many trail mix recipes, particularly those available in stores, tend to be high in carbs due to ingredients like chocolate chips and yogurt chips. However, this particular recipe uses no-sugar-added chocolate chips and unsweetened dried cranberries to keep the carbohydrate content low, with no added sugars and salt-free nuts.
- Can I freeze homemade trail mix?
- Yes, you can freeze homemade trail mix. Simply transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag, and it can be stored in the freezer for up to six months. Just make sure to thaw it completely before consuming.
- Is trail mix a healthy option for weight loss?
- Trail mix can be a healthy snack option, but it’s important to be mindful of portion sizes. While nuts in trail mix offer healthy nutrients and omega-3 fatty acids, they are also calorie-dense and can contribute to weight gain if consumed in large amounts. Following the recommended serving size is key for weight management.
- What can I substitute in this trail mix recipe?
- You can easily swap ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand. For example, sunflower seeds can be replaced with pumpkin seeds, and macadamia nuts, peanuts, or walnuts can be used in place of almonds or pistachios. Unsweetened dried blueberries are a great alternative to dried cranberries, and you can use sugar-free white chocolate chips if preferred.
- How should I store homemade trail mix?
- Store your homemade trail mix in an airtight container or large mason jar at room temperature. It will remain fresh for up to one month, although it may start to lose its freshness after that. However, it is still edible beyond one month.
Tips
- Prevent Over-Toasting Coconut Flakes: Stir the coconut flakes frequently while toasting to ensure even color and prevent burning, as this process can happen quickly.
- Cool Coconut Flakes Completely: Allow the toasted coconut to cool entirely before mixing it with other ingredients to maintain the desired texture and avoid melting the chocolate chips.
- Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to substitute ingredients based on personal preference or dietary needs, such as using pumpkin seeds instead of sunflower seeds or incorporating different types of nuts.
- Store Properly for Freshness: Keep the trail mix in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain its freshness for up to a month. For longer storage, consider freezing it in a freezer-safe container for up to six months.
Equipment
- Small Non-Stick Skillet
- Large Mixing Bowl
- Rubber Spatula
- Large Mason Jar
