Dried Tart Cherry Trail Mix

When you need a quick snack that’s both satisfying and packed with flavor, dried tart cherry trail mix is a fantastic option to have on hand. This mix combines the sweet-tart punch of dried cherries with a variety of nuts and seeds for crunch, making it a perfect blend of taste and texture. Whether you’re out hiking, at your desk, or just craving something healthy between meals, this trail mix delivers energy and nutrients in every bite.

One of the best things about dried tart cherries is their unique tangy flavor, which adds a delightful twist to the usual sweet trail mix ingredients. Unlike sweeter dried fruits, tart cherries have a bright, slightly sour note that balances beautifully with the natural richness of nuts like almonds or cashews. Plus, tart cherries are known for their antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, giving this snack a little extra health boost.

Beyond the flavor and health perks, this trail mix is super versatile. You can customize it however you like, swapping out nuts or adding in extras like dark chocolate chips or coconut flakes. It’s a great snack to prepare in advance and portion out for busy days, making it a smart and tasty choice whether you’re fueling up for a workout or need a midday pick-me-up.

In this post, I’ll walk you through a simple yet delicious recipe for dried tart cherry trail mix, including tips on choosing the best ingredients and some ideas for serving and storage. It’s an easy recipe that anyone can whip up, and it’s sure to become a go-to snack in your routine.

Why You’ll Love It

• Perfect Balance of Sweet and Tart: The dried tart cherries add a refreshing tang that keeps your taste buds excited, cutting through the richness of nuts and making every handful deliciously balanced.
• Nutrient-Packed Energy Boost: Loaded with protein, healthy fats, fiber, and antioxidants, this trail mix gives you lasting energy without the crash that sugary snacks can cause.
• Easy to Customize: Whether you prefer crunchy almonds, creamy cashews, or a sprinkle of pumpkin seeds, you can tailor this mix to your favorite flavors and textures.
• Great for On-the-Go: Portable and non-perishable, it’s an ideal snack to toss in your bag for hiking, work, or travel, keeping hunger at bay wherever life takes you.
• Supports Recovery and Wellness: Thanks to the anti-inflammatory compounds in tart cherries, this mix can help soothe muscles after exercise and support overall health.

Ingredient List

Dried Fruit

• 1 cup dried tart cherries
• ½ cup dried cranberries (optional for extra sweetness)

Nuts & Seeds

• 1 cup raw almonds
• ½ cup raw cashews
• ½ cup pumpkin seeds (pepitas)

Extras

• ¼ cup dark chocolate chips (70% cocoa or higher)
• 2 tablespoons unsweetened shredded coconut (optional)
• 1 teaspoon sea salt

Ingredient Notes

• I always use unsweetened dried tart cherries to keep the flavor bright and avoid added sugars.
• Raw nuts have a better crunch and fresher taste than roasted, but you can toast them lightly if you prefer.
• Pumpkin seeds add a nice texture and are packed with magnesium, which is great for muscle recovery.
• Don’t skip the sea salt — it enhances all the flavors and balances the tartness of the cherries.
• Dark chocolate chips add just the right touch of indulgence without overpowering the mix.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Large Mixing Bowl – To combine all the ingredients evenly. I like a sturdy glass or stainless steel bowl.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons – For accuracy with nuts, seeds, and extras.
• Airtight Container or Jar – To store your trail mix and keep it fresh longer. I use a mason jar or BPA-free plastic container.
• Baking Sheet (Optional) – If you want to lightly toast the nuts and seeds for extra crunch.
• Spatula or Wooden Spoon – For stirring the mix without crushing the ingredients.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

• Measure out all your nuts, seeds, dried tart cherries, and other mix-ins according to the ingredient list.
• If you prefer toasted nuts and seeds, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Step 2: Toast Nuts and Seeds (Optional)

• Spread the almonds, cashews, and pumpkin seeds evenly on a baking sheet.
• Place in the oven for about 8–10 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even toasting.
• Watch closely during the last few minutes to prevent burning — nuts can go from perfectly toasted to burnt quickly.
• Remove from oven and let them cool completely before mixing.

Pro Tip: Toasting enhances the flavor and adds a satisfying crunch, but if you’re short on time, raw nuts work perfectly fine too.

Step 3: Combine the Ingredients

• In a large mixing bowl, add the dried tart cherries, optional cranberries, toasted or raw nuts and seeds, dark chocolate chips, shredded coconut, and sea salt.
• Gently stir everything together using a spatula or wooden spoon until all ingredients are evenly distributed.

Step 4: Taste and Adjust

• Take a small handful and taste your trail mix.
• If it feels too tart, add a little more dried cranberries or a few extra chocolate chips.
• If it’s too salty, reduce the sea salt next time or balance it with extra dried fruit.

Step 5: Store Your Trail Mix

• Transfer the finished trail mix into an airtight container or jar.
• Store it in a cool, dry place for up to two weeks, or keep it in the fridge to extend freshness for up to a month.

Pro Tip: Portion out your trail mix into small snack bags or containers to make grabbing a quick, healthy snack even easier during busy days.

Tips and Tricks for Success

• Use high-quality dried tart cherries without added sugars for the best flavor and health benefits.
• Toast nuts and seeds lightly for deeper flavor and crunch, but let them cool completely before mixing.
• Store your trail mix in an airtight container to keep it fresh and crunchy longer.
• Mix in chocolate chips last to prevent them from melting if your nuts are still warm.
• Make smaller batches if you don’t eat trail mix often to avoid it going stale.
• Experiment with portion sizes to find what keeps you energized without overeating.

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

• Swap almonds and cashews for walnuts, pecans, or pistachios depending on your preference.
• Use dried blueberries, raisins, or goji berries instead of or alongside tart cherries.
• Replace pumpkin seeds with sunflower seeds or hemp seeds for a different crunch.
• For a sweeter twist, add banana chips or dried mango pieces.
• Omit the chocolate chips for a dairy-free or lower-sugar option.
• Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or chili powder for a unique flavor kick.

Serving Suggestions

• I love grabbing a small handful of this dried tart cherry trail mix as a mid-morning snack to keep my energy up without feeling heavy.
• Toss it over a bowl of Greek yogurt with a drizzle of honey for a quick and tasty breakfast boost.
• Sprinkle it on top of your favorite salad to add a pop of color, sweetness, and crunch.
• Pack it in small snack bags for easy, on-the-go fuel during hikes, road trips, or busy workdays.
• Mix it into oatmeal or smoothie bowls to add texture and a burst of tart cherry flavor.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

• Store your trail mix in an airtight container at room temperature in a cool, dry place to keep it fresh up to two weeks.
• For longer storage, keep the trail mix in the refrigerator for up to a month without losing crunch.
• Avoid storing near heat or sunlight to prevent nuts and chocolate from melting or going rancid.
• There’s no need to reheat—this trail mix is perfect eaten straight from the container or bag.
• If your nuts lose their crunch over time, spread the mix on a baking sheet and toast lightly at 300°F (150°C) for 5–7 minutes to refresh.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the best way to store dried tart cherry trail mix?

Keep it in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. You can also refrigerate it to extend freshness up to a month.

Can I use other dried fruits instead of tart cherries?

Absolutely! Dried blueberries, cranberries, or raisins work well and add their own unique flavors.

Is this trail mix gluten-free and vegan?

Yes! All the ingredients are naturally gluten-free and vegan, making it a great snack for many dietary preferences.

How long does the trail mix last?

Stored properly, it stays fresh for about two weeks at room temperature, or up to a month in the fridge.

Can I make this trail mix ahead of time?

Definitely! It’s an excellent make-ahead snack that you can portion out for the week or even longer.

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Did you try this recipe? Let me know in the comments how it turned out!

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