Budget-Friendly Family Fun: Build-Your-Own Trail Mix!

Spring is here, and it's the perfect time to get the family together for a fun activity and a healthy snack! This recipe for homemade trail mix allows everyone to customize their own blend, making it a winner for picky eaters and adventurous palates alike. Plus, it's budget-friendly and uses ingredients you might already have on hand.

Ingredients:

• The Crunchy Base (choose 3-4):

• Rolled oats (old-fashioned or quick)

• Rice Krispies cereal (I choose Organic brands)

• Unsalted pretzels (broken into bite-sized pieces)

• Popcorn (air-popped and cooled)

• Dry roasted peanuts (chopped) *Be aware of allergies
  

• The Sweet Additions (choose 2-3):

• Raisins

• Dried cranberries

• Chopped dried apricots

• Dates (chopped)

• Dark chocolate chips (mini or chopped)
  

• Bonus Boosters (choose 1-2):

• Sunflower seeds (raw or roasted)

• Pumpkin seeds (raw or roasted)

• Shredded unsweetened coconut

• Dried banana chips
  

• 
  

Instructions:

1. Gather & Prep: Wash and dry any fresh produce you'll be using (like chopped dried apricots). If using chopped nuts, ensure they are nut-free and friendly for everyone enjoying the mix.

2. Container Chaos: Grab a large bowl or platter for assembling your mix and set out smaller bowls for each individual ingredient.

3. Let's Get Mixing:  Here's the fun part! Everyone gets to choose their favorite ingredients from each category (crunchy base, sweet additions, and bonus boosters) and add them to the large bowl.

4. Mix it Up: Once everyone has added their picks, give the entire mix a good stir to ensure an even distribution of deliciousness.

5. Portion Patrol:  Divide the trail mix into individual containers or baggies for easy snacking throughout the week.
   

Tips:

• Get Creative: Don't be afraid to experiment with different ingredient combinations!

• Allergy Aware:  Be mindful of allergies when choosing ingredients. Opt for nut-free alternatives like sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds if needed.

• Spice it Up: Want a little kick? Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or a dash of cayenne pepper (for adults only!) for a surprising flavor twist.

• Storage Savvy: Store your trail mix in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for up to two weeks.
  

Budget-Friendly Options:

• Look for store-brand versions of nuts, seeds, and dried fruits.

• Buy whole nuts and chop them yourself for a cheaper alternative to pre-chopped options.

• Use leftover cereal or popcorn kernels at the bottom of the bag.
  

With this recipe, you can create a delicious and healthy snack that's perfect for after-school munchies, weekend adventures, or a quick energy boost. So grab your family, gather your ingredients, and get ready to build your own trail mix adventure!