This nut-free trail mix is perfect for school-safe snacks, packed with seeds, dried fruit, and allergy-friendly chocolate. It’s gluten-free, dairy-free, and comes together in minutes. Ideal for prepping ahead or packing on the go!
It's hard to find store-bought trail mixes without nuts. This easy, nut-free mix alternative is better than store-bought and is easily customizable.
A great portable snack for road trips, long hikes, work, nut-free schools, parties, and gatherings.
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Why you'll love this recipe
- Simple ingredients
- Easy to make
- Perfect for school snacks
Ingredients and substitutions
Here are a few quick notes about the ingredients in this recipe. You can see a complete ingredient list and instructions in the recipe card below.
Gluten-free pretzels - Mini pretzels or sticks are a great way to add a salty crunch. Many gluten-free pretzels are dairy-free but always check the ingredient list. Gluten-free crackers are a great substitute.
Pumpkin seeds - Also known as pepitas, pumpkin seeds are a great source of plant-based protein and healthy fats. Feel free to substitute with different seeds.
Rice Chex - Any square crispy rice cereal will work. Corn Chex is a great gluten-free option! Cheerios and other gluten-free O's cereals are a good substitute.
Sunflower seeds - These add crunch, they provide healthy fats and a nutty flavor without allergens. Plus, are rich in lipids and protein.
Dairy-free dark chocolate gems or chocolate chips - Chocolate in snack mix is a must! But, feel free to swap it out with additional dried fruit, seeds, extra pretzels, or rice cereal.
The Choco No No's brand has dairy-free and nut-free chocolate gem options and EnjoyLife is a great source of allergy-friendly chocolate chips.
How to make nut-free trail mix
Step 1: Add all ingredients to a large bowl. Gently stir it with a wooden spoon.
Step 2: Transfer homemade mix to an airtight container.
Variations
This recipe is easily customizable. Use it as a template to create a healthy trail mix that works for you.
Load up on your favorite ingredients like various seeds, or do a fruit mix. Double the recipe and make a big batch! Here are some ideas for easy swaps:
Seeds - Chia seeds, sesame seeds, hemp hearts, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds
Dried fruit - Cranberries, raisins, apricots, banana chips, apples, guava, mango, or ginger
Cereal - Choose a crunchy cereal that fits your dietary needs.
Pretzels - Use mini, regular, or sticks. Gluten-free, nut-free, and dairy-free crackers work here too.
Chocolate - You can choose from semi-sweet, dark, or white chocolate chips. Gems, chunks, or even mini chips!
Throw in some allergy-friendly mini marshmallows if you rather.
Storage
This nut-free snack mix is best stored at room temperature. Keep it in an airtight container like a mason jar or in a large ziplock bag or a big container for a double batch.
Gluten-free snack tips
Quick snacks are so handy. But when creating an allergy-friendly recipe, there are a few things to consider:
- Use brands that you trust that have free-from ingredients based on your dietary needs.
- While they can be a better buy, avoid the bulk section when buying seeds or dried fruit. Bulk bins often have cross-contamination.
- Many gluten-free friendly brands can be found at your local grocery store, health food store, or available at online retailers.
FAQs
A trail mix typically consists of a combination of nuts, seeds, dried fruits, and sometimes other ingredients for added flavor. This nut-free recipe omits nuts and uses seeds, dried fruit, cereal, and chocolate.
Depending on the ingredients used, when stored in an airtight container, trail mix is best eaten within one week.
Yes, you can absolutely make this nut-free trail mix without chocolate. Simply leave out the chocolate chips or substitute with dried fruit, toasted coconut flakes, or crispy cereal pieces to maintain texture and sweetness. This swap makes the mix even more school-safe and reduces added sugar.
Want more nut-free recipes? These nut-free cookies are a delicious option!
More easy snack recipes
Love this recipe? Please consider leaving a 5-star 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟rating on the recipe card below and let me know what you think in the comments!
📖 Recipe
Nut Free Trail Mix
Ingredients
- 1 cup gluten-free mini pretzels
- ½ cup pumpkin seeds
- 1 cup dried cranberries or cherries
- 1 cup rice or corn Chex
- ½ cup dairy-free chocolate gems chocolate chunks or chocolate chips
- ½ cup sunflower seeds
Instructions
- Add all ingredients to a large bowl. Gently stir it with a wooden spoon.
- Transfer homemade trail mix to an airtight container or ziplock bag. Best eaten within one week.
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