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 love making this snack mix because it brings the flavors of the forest right into my kitchen, and it's always a hit at gatherings.
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 This snack mix has become a favorite at our family picnics and brings back warm memories of foraging trips in the forest.
Required Tools
Baking sheet, parchment paper, large mixing bowl, small bowl, spoon or spatula
Allergen Information
Contains tree nuts (acorns, oak nuts, almonds, hazelnuts if substituted). Contains seeds (pumpkin, sunflower). Chocolate chips may contain traces of milk or soy – check labels if sensitive. Always ensure all wild foraged ingredients are correctly identified and processed.
Nutritional Information
Calories 230, Total Fat 14 g, Carbohydrates 21 g, Protein 5 g per serving
Save Enjoy this unique snack as a healthy treat anytime you want to bring a taste of nature to your day.
Recipe Help & Answers
- → How do I prepare acorns for this mix?
Shell and chop acorns, then soak in several changes of cold water over days to remove bitterness before drying and roasting.
- → Can I substitute oak nuts if unavailable?
Yes, extra roasted acorns or hazelnuts make good alternatives while maintaining texture.
- → What spices enhance the flavor?
Smoked paprika, ground cinnamon, sea salt, and cayenne pepper bring smoky, warm, and slightly spicy notes.
- → Is this mix suitable for special diets?
It is vegetarian, gluten-free, and rich in nuts and seeds but contains potential allergens like tree nuts and chocolate traces.
- → How should I store the snack mix?
Keep it in an airtight container at room temperature to preserve its crunch and flavor for up to one week.
- → Can I add other ingredients for variation?
Toasted coconut flakes or other dried fruits can be included to diversify textures and flavors.