Take your trail mix game to the next level with this show-stopping cool ranch jerky trail mix, where nuts, pretzels, cereal, roasted fava beans, and beef jerky come together in perfect harmony. The pièce de résistance? A tangy parmesan parsley ranch butter topping that elevates the entire experience. This isn’t just a snack, it’s an adventure waiting to happen – whether you’re hitting the trails, stuck in traffic on a road trip, or just looking for a tasty treat for the kids. The best part? It’s ridiculously easy to make and adaptable to any palate. And if you’re hooked on trail mix, you’ll love that this recipe is just the tip of the iceberg – try pairing it with fruit muffins, cereal-based treats, or even homemade jerky for a snack attack like no other.
Why You’ll Love This
This game-changing trail mix is a far cry from your average, lackluster combination. With a medley of nuts, pretzels, cereal, and savory jerky, it’s a true masterclass of textures and flavors. The pièce de résistance? A rich parmesan ranch butter that ties everything together beautifully. Making your own trail mix has never been more enjoyable or satisfying, thanks to this delightful recipe. On the flip side, the process is surprisingly straightforward – simply combine all the ingredients in a bowl, then top it off with a melted and stirred-to-perfection topping. The result? A filling and energy-boosting snack that’s perfect for a quick pick-me-up during a long afternoon or as a reliable companion for an extended outdoor adventure.
How to Make Jerky Trail Mix
To create your own unique trail mix recipe, follow these steps: First, combine the dry ingredients (excluding jerky and topping ingredients) in a single bowl. Next, prepare the topping by melting butter in the microwave and then mixing it with other topping ingredients. Once both components are ready, merge them together by tossing the dry ingredients with the melted butter mixture. Transfer the prepared trail mix to a parchment paper-lined baking sheet and bake for 30 minutes, stirring halfway through the cooking time. After it’s done, allow the trail mix to cool to room temperature before adding the jerky and storing it in a mason jar or airtight container in a cool and dark place.
Substitutions and Variations
Feel free to mix and match your favorite ingredients to create a unique snack that suits your taste buds. While Chex is an option, you can substitute it with another cereal of your choice, perhaps something sweet and sugary to balance out the savory flavors. Experiment with different types of jerky, such as beef, venison, or even turkey, to add variety to your snack. Don’t be afraid to deviate from the classic ranch seasoning either – try using a different cheese, herbs like dried basil or dill weed, or even go bold with mixed herbs. And why not sweeten things up by adding in some chocolate chips, banana chips, or small candies? The possibilities are endless!
How to Store Trail Mix With Jerky
When storing your homemade trail mix, consider keeping it in an airtight container made of plastic or silicone, or opt for a mason jar that will keep the contents fresh and protected from light. You can choose to refrigerate it if you prefer, but it’s not necessary. At room temperature, your trail mix should remain edible for about two weeks. When it comes to freezing, unfortunately, it doesn’t retain its quality well, so make sure to only prepare as much as you can consume within a short period.
Top Tips
When incorporating jerky into your trail mix, be mindful of the salt content, as many types can be quite salty. To balance this out, consider pairing it with unsalted nuts. For added convenience, simply chop larger pieces of jerky into bite-sized morsels before mixing in other ingredients. If you’re looking to add an extra kick, introduce some heat by incorporating cayenne pepper or hot red pepper flakes (or opt for spicy jerky instead).
Cool Ranch Jerky Trail Mix FAQs
While store-bought trail mixes often rely on added salt and sugar, making your own allows you to have complete control over the ingredients. This means you can opt for a healthier version by limiting the amount of these sweet and salty additives. The beauty of DIY trail mix is that you get to choose exactly what goes into it. From nuts and seeds to dried fruits and even popcorn, the possibilities are endless.
Some unique additions you might consider including in your homemade trail mix recipe are candied or chocolate-covered treats like raisins or cranberries, crunchy elements like pretzels or roasted fava beans, and a boost of nutrition from ingredients like pumpkin seeds or chickpeas. Don’t forget to add some sweet treats like coconut flakes or chips for a little indulgence.
Cool Ranch Jerky Trail Mix Recipe
Cool Ranch Jerky Trail Mix
Bella Bucchiotti shares a standout trail mix recipe that’s a game-changer. With an impressive medley of ingredients, including nuts and pretzels, parmesan cheese, and savory beef jerky, this snack is impossible to resist. Whether you’re in the mood for something crunchy, cheesy, or protein-packed, this recipe has got it all.
Instructions
To begin, preheat your oven to a moderate temperature of 300 degrees Fahrenheit. Next, line a sheet pan with parchment paper for easy cleanup. In a large mixing bowl, combine all the ingredients except for the topping mixture and the jerky itself. Gently toss the mixture together until everything is well incorporated. In a microwave-safe dish, melt the butter and then combine it with the dry mixture in the bowl. Add the ranch seasoning powder, grated Parmesan cheese, and dried parsley to the mixture, stirring gently to combine. Sprinkle this flavorful topping evenly over the mixture in the sheet pan. Finally, bake for 30 minutes, tossing the mixture halfway through the cooking time. Remove the sheet pan from the oven and let it cool completely before adding in the jerky and storing everything in an airtight container.
Notes
When incorporating jerky into your snack mix, consider the salt level of the jerky itself. If it’s particularly salty, you may find that unsalted nuts provide a better balance of flavors. On the other hand, if you’re working with a milder jerky, you can stick to your go-to nut variety. To make the most of your jerky strips, simply chop them into bite-sized pieces before adding them to the mix. For an extra kick, try sprinkling in some cayenne pepper or hot red pepper flakes. Alternatively, if you prefer a spicier flavor, you can use spicy jerky as a substitute.