Simple Snack Mix Recipe

Simple Snack Mix Recipe

Ingredients:

  • 4 cups crispy corn cereal squares
  • 1 cup dried mixed fruit, chopped
  • cup yogurt-covered raisins
  • cup chopped mixed nuts
  • cup banana chips

Directions:

  1. In a medium bowl, combine crispy corn cereal squares, dried mixed fruit, yogurt-covered raisins, mixed nuts, and banana chips.
  2. Toss or stir the ingredients until evenly mixed.
  3. Store the trail mix in sealed, airtight s to maintain freshness.

Nutrition Facts (per serving):

Nutrition Amount
Calories 74
Total Fat 3g
Saturated Fat 1g
Sodium 62mg
Total Carbohydrate 13g
Dietary Fiber 1g
Total Sugars 2g
Protein 1g
Vitamin C 2mg
Calcium 23mg
Iron 2mg
Potassium 106mg

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

** Nutrient information is not available for all ingredients. Amount is based on available nutrient data.

If you are following a medically restrictive diet, please consult your doctor or registered dietitian before preparing this recipe for personal consumption.

History and Origins of Snack Mix

The concept of a snack mix, combining nuts, dried fruits, and crunchy cereal, traces its roots back to early 20th-century America. Originally, these mixes were designed as portable, energy-boosting snacks for workers and travelers. During the post-World War II era, packaged versions became widely available, aligning with the rise of convenience foods. The homemade versions, like this Simple Snack Mix, retain the charm of customizability and freshness that industrial mixes often lack.

Regional Variations

While the base ingredientsnuts, dried fruits, and cerealare common nationwide, regional adaptations highlight local tastes. In the southern United States, pecans and sweetened dried fruits are popular, while the Midwest often favors corn-based cereals. West Coast versions may include exotic dried fruits like mango or kiwi, reflecting the area's diverse produce. Some regions add spices, such as cinnamon or chili powder, to introduce a savory or sweet-and-spicy twist.

Distinguishing Features Compared to Similar Dishes

Unlike traditional trail mixes, which focus mainly on nuts and dried fruits, this Simple Snack Mix incorporates crispy corn cereal and banana chips, creating a textural contrast. It is lighter and less calorie-dense than fully chocolate-covered mixes, and the addition of yogurt-covered raisins adds a subtle creaminess absent in most commercial mixes. The combination of sweet, salty, and crunchy elements makes it unique among snack options.

Typical Serving Occasions

Simple Snack Mix is versatile and commonly served at casual gatherings, office parties, or as an on-the-go snack for children and adults. Its ideal for hiking trips, road trips, or school lunches because of its portability and minimal preparation. In addition, it can be offered in small bowls at social events or family movie nights as a lighter alternative to chips and candy.

Interesting Facts

  • Snack mixes are sometimes referred to as party mixes due to their frequent appearance at social events.
  • The combination of texturescrunchy, chewy, and creamystimulates multiple senses, making them highly satisfying.
  • Customizable ingredient lists mean nearly infinite variations, allowing each household to create a signature mix.
  • Historically, the portability of snack mixes made them a favorite for soldiers during wartime and explorers on long journeys.
  • In some cultures, similar mixes are enjoyed during festivals, such as Diwali in India, where sweet and savory nuts and dried fruits are popular.

Overall, Simple Snack Mix is more than just a convenient treat; its a blend of history, regional flavor, and playful customization, appealing to a wide range of tastes and occasions.

FAQ about Simple Snack Mix Recipe

Store the Simple Snack Mix in an airtight container to maintain freshness. It's best to keep it in a cool, dry place, such as a pantry. For longer storage, you can refrigerate it, but be mindful that certain ingredients may become slightly less crispy.

Yes, you can customize the snack mix with different nuts, dried fruits, or cereals according to your preferences. Some people like to add pretzels, chocolate chips, or sunflower seeds. Just keep in mind that altering the ingredients may affect the texture or flavor.

The snack mix should stay fresh for about 1 to 2 weeks if stored properly in an airtight container. However, it may become stale faster if exposed to moisture or heat.

Yes, you can prepare the Simple Snack Mix ahead of time. It's a great option for meal prepping or parties. Just ensure that you store it in an airtight container to preserve its crunch and flavor.

The snack mix contains crispy corn cereal squares, which may not be gluten-free depending on the brand. If you're looking for a gluten-free version, make sure to use a certified gluten-free cereal or substitute it with a gluten-free option.

Yes, adding chocolate is a delicious variation! You can add chocolate chips, melted chocolate, or even yogurt-covered chocolate pieces for an extra indulgent treat. Just be mindful of how the chocolate might affect the texture if stored for a longer period.

To make the snack mix healthier, you can use lower-sugar dried fruits, replace the yogurt-covered raisins with regular raisins, and opt for unsalted or lightly salted nuts. Additionally, you can use whole-grain cereal or add seeds like chia or flaxseeds for extra nutrition.

If you don't have banana chips, you can substitute them with other dried fruits, such as dried mango, apricots, or even dried apple slices. Alternatively, you can use a different crunchy element like pretzels or additional nuts.

While it's not necessary to freeze the snack mix, you can do so for longer storage. Freezing may affect the texture of some ingredients, like the cereal or banana chips, so it's best to try it in smaller portions first. Always store it in an airtight container or resealable bag.

Comments

Charles Martin

07/17/2024 01:18:26 AM

Simple to prepare and delicious in flavor!

Edward Jones

10/23/2023 10:11:41 PM

I have experience adapting this activity for my group of girl scouts. I set up a selection of ten different ingredients, provided them with ziploc bags, and allowed them to make their own trail mix before a hike. The girls thoroughly enjoyed the experience!

Susan Hill

01/17/2025 11:25:09 AM

Do not add cereal until you are ready to eat. It will soak up moisture from the other ingredients.

Paul Cruz

12/25/2022 04:00:27 PM

My family absolutely adored this recipe! We accidentally used raisins with chocolate-flavored yogurt and bought salted nuts, but the result was incredibly delicious.

Thomas Roberts

04/28/2024 07:52:44 AM

In general, this snack mix is a fantastic option to keep around. I decided to go with dried cranberries instead of a tropical dried fruit blend. The corn cereal does tend to become a bit soggy, which is a downside, but overall I still enjoy it.