16 Trail Mix and Snack Mix Recipes for a Quick Energy Boost

Crunchy Cracker Snack Mix
Photo: Jason Donnelly

Whether you're celebrating game day, happy hour, a holiday, or simply getting home from work or school—a snack mix is always a perfect way to get your munchie fix. Our favorite snack mix and trail mix recipes pair pantry staples with gourmet touches. Here you'll discover innovative homemade trail mixes made with sweet and savory ingredients to tote along for an afternoon hike, tailgate party, or pack as a delicious holiday gift.

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Parmesan-Ranch Sweet Potato Snack Mix

close-up of Parmesan-Ranch Sweet Potato Snack Mix
Carson Downing

Ranch fans won't be able to stop eating this cheesy, tangy snack mix. A packet of dressing mix and grated Parmesan cheese combine with melted butter for the ultimate flavor bomb topping. Sweet potato chips offset some of the savory flavor while providing extra vitamin A to your afternoon snack.

02 of 16

Trail Mix 4 Ways

four bowls of trail mix
Blaine Moats

This is the trail mix recipe to keep on hand when you want to mix and match your favorite flavors. Go sweet with our delicious banana-nut or berry trail mix variations. For a savory twist, opt for Italian-style or spicy peanut. The DIY recipe starts with air-popped popcorn but allows you to choose fruit, nuts, and seeds to suit your dietary needs if you require a nut- and/or gluten-free trail mix.

Buy It: Nostalgia Air-Pop Hot Air Popcorn Popper ($20, Target)

03 of 16

Barbecue Snack Mix

Barbecue Snack Mix
Andy Lyons

Add bold flavor to your game day spread with this homemade snack mix. The irresistible coating is made with butter, barbecue sauce, and Worcestershire with a hint of garlic and onion. For an extra smoky flavor, look for chipotle cheddar crackers to add to the mix.

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Chocolate-Ginger Snack Mix

Chocolate-Ginger Snack Mix
Andy Lyons

Your afternoon sweet tooth will definitely be satisfied with a handful of this chocolate trail mix. Crispy rice cereal and hazelnuts are covered in a ginger and chocolate-hazelnut spread coating. We add some candied ginger to give the homemade snack mix a little extra kick.

05 of 16

Sweet-and-Hot Nuts

Sweet-and-Hot Nuts in bowls
Karla Conrad

Here's gluten-free, healthy trail mix to tote on your next road trip. Combine your favorite nuts with a spicy-sweet sauce and let your slow cooker meld together the magical flavors. Toast the nuts first to get optimal crunch.

Buy It: Crock-Pot 6-Quart Cook & Carry Slow Cooker ($50, Target)

06 of 16

Game-Day Snack Mix

Game-Day Snack Mix
Kritsada Panichgul

Caesar dressing, Parmesan cheese, and butter combine for an unforgettable game-day snack mix. As if the recipe wasn't already top-notch, we also include instructions to make a really impressive entirely edible snack bowl out of rice cereal.

07 of 16

Crunchy Cracker Snack Mix

Crunchy Cracker Snack Mix
Jason Donnelly

Try an updated take on classic party mix recipes by adding nut-based crackers to pretzels, gourmet rosemary and sea salt almonds, and spices. It's a savory snack mix that pairs well with crisp hard ciders and hoppy IPAs—or punch recipes!

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Cheesy Snack Mix

Cheesy Snack Mix
Andy Lyons

Savory herbs team up with crisp corn cereal, breadsticks, and cheese crackers for an easy cocktail hour treat. We like to reach for garlic and herb gourmet almonds to add more depth of flavor. Bake and cool the snack mix the night before so you'll have more time to prep for guests.

Buy It: Nordic Ware Natural Aluminum Half Sheet Pan ($10, Walmart)

09 of 16

Chili Mixed Nuts

Chili Mixed Nuts
Andy Lyons

For a low-carb trail mix, simply go with a blend of your favorite nuts and some spices. There's a bit of lime juice added for a zesty bite. This 5-ingredient recipe comes together in just 25 minutes so you'll be munching in no time.

10 of 16

Make-It-Mine Slow Cooker Party Mix

Make-It-Mine Slow Cooker Party Mix
Karla Conrad

You can customize this slow cooker snack mix to suit your preferences and mood—whether you prefer spicy snack mix recipes, sweet and salty snack mixes, Italian flavors, or even a party mix that tastes like a taco.

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Tropical Snack Mix

Tropical Snack Mix
Andy Lyons

Bring a taste of the tropics to your next party or holiday gathering. This brightly flavored nut mix recipe features dried tropical fruit, pineapple juice, and a bit of allspice. You don't even need your oven for this one, just a quick run in the microwave.

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Cinnamon Churro Snack Mix

Cinnamon Churro Snack Mix spilling out of red containers on green background
Carson Downing

This Christmas snack mix is about to be the recipe most requested by friends and family. With a buttery cinnamon-sugar topping that gives major churro associations, how could anyone not be thankful to receive this homemade snack mix as a gift?

Test Kitchen Tip: Line your baking pan with aluminum foil for easy cleanup.

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Valentine's Day Chocolate Trail Mix

Valentine's Day Chocolate Trail Mix
Andy Lyons

OK so this chocolate trail mix recipe might be the perfect Valentine's Day treat, but we think it's great for any time of the year. Freeze-dried raspberries and cherries give the sweet chocolate drizzle a tangy contrast.

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Honey-Mustard Snack Mix

Honey-Mustard Snack Mix
Blaine Moats

As a healthy snack or a party appetizer, this easy snack mix is sure to be a hit. Because really, you can't go wrong with a combination that includes popcorn, peanuts, crispy cereal, and a buttery drizzle.

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Chicken Feed

Chicken Feed Snack Mix
Andy Lyons

The name of this trail mix recipe might make you chuckle, but it's definitely a keeper. Apple jelly (or your favorite flavor) is the secret ingredient that binds the coating along with cinnamon and butter. The mix of rolled oats, nuts, sunflower seeds, and candy-coated peanuts will have everyone reaching for an extra handful.

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Wasabi Party Mix

Wasabi Party Mix
Colleen Duffley

This Asian-inspired snack mix is sure to perk up that midday work slump. Wasabi-flavor peas, seasame sticks, honey roasted peanuts, and shredded coconut all come together for the best sweet and spicy snack mix you'll ever taste.

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