Save A crunchy, nutty snack mix inspired by woodland flavors, combining roasted acorns, oak nuts, and a blend of seeds and spices for a unique, earthy treat.
I first made this snack mix to bring a taste of the forest to my family gatherings and it quickly became a favorite for its crunch and depth of flavor.
Ingredients
- Nuts & Seeds: 1 cup acorns (leached and roasted see notes), 1/2 cup oak nuts (if unavailable substitute with additional roasted acorns or hazelnuts), 1/2 cup raw almonds, 1/2 cup pumpkin seeds (pepitas), 1/4 cup sunflower seeds
- Add-Ins: 1/3 cup dried cranberries, 1/3 cup dark chocolate chips (optional)
- Seasoning: 1 tbsp olive oil, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, 1/2 tsp sea salt, 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon, 1/8 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Step 2:
- In a large bowl combine roasted acorns, oak nuts, almonds, pumpkin seeds, and sunflower seeds.
- Step 3:
- In a small bowl mix olive oil, smoked paprika, sea salt, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper. Drizzle over the nut and seed mixture tossing well to coat evenly.
- Step 4:
- Spread the mixture in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- Step 5:
- Roast for 15 20 minutes stirring halfway through until fragrant and lightly golden.
- Step 6:
- Remove from oven and let cool completely.
- Step 7:
- Mix in dried cranberries and dark chocolate chips (if using).
- Step 8:
- Store in an airtight container for up to one week.
Save Sharing this snack mix has brought my family together for many cozy evenings enjoying something both wholesome and delicious.
Variations
Try adding toasted coconut flakes or other dried fruits such as apricots or figs for an extra burst of flavor and texture.
Pairings
Pair with a light fruity white wine or a crisp cider to complement the earthy and nutty flavors of the mix.
Allergen Information
Contains tree nuts (acorns oak nuts almonds hazelnuts if substituted) and seeds (pumpkin sunflower). Chocolate chips may contain traces of milk or soy check labels if sensitive.
Save This snack mix is the perfect balance of earthy and sweet ideal for any occasion or a healthy treat.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → How should acorns be prepared before use?
Acorns must be properly leached by shelling, chopping, and soaking in several changes of cold water until bitterness is gone, then drying and roasting to enhance their nutty flavor.
- → What can I substitute if oak nuts are unavailable?
If oak nuts are not available, substitute with extra roasted acorns or hazelnuts to maintain a similar texture and flavor.
- → Can I add other dried fruits to this mix?
Yes, toasted coconut flakes or other dried fruits can be added for additional texture and flavor variety.
- → What spices enhance this snack blend?
Smoked paprika, sea salt, ground cinnamon, and a touch of cayenne pepper provide a warm and slightly spicy depth to the mix.
- → How long can this snack mix be stored?
Store in an airtight container for up to one week to maintain freshness and crunch.