Trail mix, aka gorp, is a protein-packed, sweet-and-salty snack that’s perfect for taking on the go. It’s a staple among hikers, campers, and scouts alike. Although I’m not much of a camper myself, I love do love a good pantry cleanout recipe, and this homemade trail mix does just that. It’s super easy to make– just toss everything together and it’s ready to go!

A bowl full of trail mix aka gorp.

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Sweet, salty, and energy-sustaining trail mix (also known as gorp) is the perfect mid-morning or afternoon pick-me-up to keep you going all day long. Roasted nuts provide a good source of fats and protein, raisins add fiber, and M&M’s add a touch of sweetness for a burst of quick energy.

What’s in This Trail Mix Recipe?

  • Nuts: We like a combination of roasted peanuts, cashews, and almonds.
  • Raisins: Add a pop of sweetness and some fiber for energy.
  • Chocolate: We like milk chocolate and peanut M&Ms for their sweetness.
A pile of mixed nuts and raisins on a white surface.
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Make It Easy

The fun thing about trail mix is that you can really add just about anything! If you’ve got nut allergies, swap for pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, chia seeds, or dried chickpeas. You could also use granola! Not a fan of raisins? Try dried pineapple, coconut flakes, banana chips, dried cranberries, or dried blueberries. And in place of the M&M’s try chocolate chips, chocolate chunks, white chocolate, or yogurt-covered pretzels.

How to Store

Store leftover trail mix in an airtight container or individual Ziplock bags for up to 1 month. It makes a great grab-and-go snack!

Servings of gorp trail mix in individual glass jars.

Serving Suggestions

Make bags of this trail mix recipe for breakfast on the go, along with a coffee smoothie or a glass of cold brew for sustained energy all day. I love adding this to the kids’ lunch boxes so they have a snack that’s filled with protein and something they’ll love too–chocolate!

If you’re planning to pack some gorp for camping or a long hike, be sure to bring lots of water and a refreshing electrolyte drink.

Recipe Card

Trail Mix Recipe

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Prep: 10 minutes
Cook: 0 minutes
Total: 10 minutes
Servings: 9
Author: Becky Hardin
A bowl full of mixed nuts and m&m's.
Making homemade trail mix couldn't be easier! Just grab ingredients from your pantry, mix it together, and get to snacking.
Step-by-step photos can be seen below the recipe card.
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Ingredients 

  • 1 cup roasted peanuts
  • 1 cup raisins
  • ¾ cup roasted cashews
  • ¾ cup roasted almonds
  • ½ cup milk chocolate M&M’s
  • ½ cup peanut M&M’s

Instructions 

  • Add all the ingredients to a bowl and mix well to combine.
    1 cup roasted peanuts, 1 cup raisins, ¾ cup roasted cashews, ¾ cup roasted almonds, ½ cup milk chocolate M&M’s, ½ cup peanut M&M’s
    A bowl full of mixed nuts and m&m's.
  • Place in one large or several small Ziplock bags.

Video

Becky’s Tips

  • Make sure your peanuts do not have added ingredients other than salt. Some brands include seasonings and this will throw off the flavor of your trail mix.
  • You can use chocolate chips in place of the M&M’s.
Storage: Store trail mix in an airtight container for up to 1 month.
Serving: 0.5cupCalories: 386kcalCarbohydrates: 36gProtein: 11gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 11gTrans Fat: 0.02gCholesterol: 2mgSodium: 105mgPotassium: 448mgFiber: 5gSugar: 14gVitamin A: 26IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 79mgIron: 2mg

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.

Did you make this? Leave a comment!
What is usually in trail mix?

Trail mix usually consists of nuts, raisins or dried fruits, and some type of sweet (usually chocolate).

What does gorp stand for?

The term “gorp” is an acronym. Some people believe it stands for “good ol’ raisins and peanuts”, while others say it stands for “granola, oats, raisins, peanuts”. This term is mostly used by hikers and outdoors-enthusiasts who pack this snack to keep them energized.

Is trail mix healthy?

Yes! It’s a great source of healthy fats, protein, and fiber and can provide you with the energy to get through the day. As with anything, it is best enjoyed in moderation!

Why do they put M&M’s in trail mix?

M&M’s are added as a source of quick energy (sugar) to get you through until the rest of the ingredients in the mix can give you that longer-lasting energy.

Is it OK to eat trail mix everyday?

Sure! Just remember to enjoy it in moderation!

More Snack Mix Recipes to Love

Meet Becky Hardin

Becky Hardin is a wife and mother living in Saint Louis Missouri. She founded The Cookie Rookie in 2012 as a creative way to share recipes. Now, she is a trusted resource for easy cooking around the world, being featured in Taste of Home, The Kitchn, ABC’s Home and Family, and more. Here at The Cookie Rookie she is the editor in chief of all recipes and continues to enjoy sharing her passion for cooking for busy families. She has since founded two additional food blogs, Easy Chicken Recipes and Easy Dessert Recipes.

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