Vampire Bite Trail Mix

This is a no-cook Halloween snack mix: mixed nuts, dried cranberries, dark chocolate chips and two kinds of seeds, tossed with cinnamon and sea salt. It makes 8 servings of 1/2 cup each and takes 10 minutes, with no cooking at all.

Save this recipe for later:

You combine everything in one large bowl and toss. The mix then keeps at room temperature for up to two weeks, so it works as a party bowl or a snack to pack.

What Goes in the Bowl

The recipe card at the bottom has the amounts.

• Mixed nuts (2 cups): almonds, cashews and walnuts.
• Dried cranberries (1 cup): they add sweetness and the red color.
• Dark chocolate chips (1 cup): the sweet, rich part of the mix.
• Pumpkin seeds (1 cup) and sunflower seeds (1/2 cup): extra crunch.
• Cinnamon (1 teaspoon) and sea salt (1/2 teaspoon): sprinkled over everything and tossed in gently until the pieces are evenly coated.

Tips for a Better Mix

• Choose your nuts: mix and match to taste. Pecans or macadamia nuts give a different flavor.
• Watch the cranberries: they can contain added sugar, so check the label if that matters to you.
• Store it dry and cool: keep it in an airtight container in a cool, dark place so the nuts do not go rancid.
• Portion it: the mix is calorie-dense, so pre-portion it into small bags for an easy grab-and-go snack.
• Add spice: a dash of nutmeg or a sprinkle of pumpkin spice works well with the cinnamon.
• Make a big batch: it keeps, so you can prepare extra for a busy week.

Ways to Change It

• Spicy: add 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper, or some chili powder. The heat works with the sweet cranberries and chocolate.
• Nut-free: replace the mixed nuts with more pumpkin seeds and sunflower seeds to keep the crunch.
• Different chocolate: swap the dark chocolate chips for white chocolate chips or yogurt-covered raisins.
• Autumn spice: add 1/2 teaspoon of nutmeg or pumpkin pie spice.
• Fruitier: add unsweetened coconut flakes or chopped dried apricots.
• Protein: stir in a tablespoon of protein powder.

What to Serve With It

Hard cheeses such as cheddar, gouda or parmesan balance the sweetness of the mix. Veggie sticks of cucumber, bell pepper and celery with ranch or guacamole give a crisp, savory side, and so do olives and deviled eggs. Crackers add more crunch. To drink, try herbal tea such as chamomile or peppermint, or flavored sparkling water. At a party, serve the mix in small bowls, or pack it in zip-top bags. It is also good on yogurt or mixed into a salad.

Nutrition per Serving

One 1/2 cup serving has approximately 290 calories, 22 grams of fat (3 grams saturated), 15 grams of carbohydrates, 3 grams of fiber, 10 grams of sugar, 8 grams of protein and 150 milligrams of sodium.

FAQ

How long does it keep?

Up to two weeks in an airtight container at room temperature, in a cool, dark place.

Can you use other dried fruit instead of cranberries?

Yes. Dried blueberries or unsweetened coconut flakes both work.

Is it suitable for kids?

Yes, and it is a fun snack around Halloween. Watch the portion size, since the mix is calorie-dense.

Can you make it ahead?

Yes. Make a larger batch and keep it in an airtight container until you need it.

The Foodie Yummy Cookbook

12 reader-favorite recipes in one printable PDF. Enter your email and download it instantly.

Made it or loved it? Share this recipe

Written and edited by The Foodie Yummy Kitchen Team

The Foodie Yummy Kitchen Team writes and edits the recipes on Foodie Yummy: classic American potluck salads, holiday sides and easy comfort food, with a few low-carb options. Every recipe lists exact quantities, numbered steps and a printable recipe card, plus notes on swaps, storage and make-ahead timing. Spot a problem with a recipe? Tell us through the contact page and we will correct it. About us