Best Apricot Dark Chocolate Trail Mix Recipes

Trail mix is a delicious and convenient snack that is perfect for on-the-go or as an accompaniment to outdoor activities such as hiking, camping or picnicking. It typically consists of a mix of nuts, seeds, dried fruits, and sometimes chocolate or other sweets. One tasty variation that has become increasingly popular in recent years is apricot dark chocolate trail mix. This recipe combines the sweet and tangy flavor of dried apricots with the rich and slightly bitter taste of dark chocolate.

Benefits of Apricots

Apricots are not only delicious but they also offer a range of health benefits. They are a rich source of fiber, potassium and vitamins A and C. The high fiber content of apricots helps to aid digestion, while the potassium helps to regulate blood pressure. The vitamin A content of apricots is good for eye health and the vitamin C helps boost immunity. So, adding dried apricots to your trail mix is not only a tasty choice but a healthy one as well.

Benefits of Dark Chocolate

Dark chocolate is not only a tasty addition to trail mix but it also offers a range of health benefits. Dark chocolate is high in antioxidants, which can help to protect the body against oxidative stress and reduce inflammation. The flavanols found in dark chocolate have also been shown to lower blood pressure and improve heart health. However, it is important to choose high-quality dark chocolate with a high percentage (70% or higher) of cocoa solids in order to reap these benefits.

Making Apricot Dark Chocolate Trail Mix

Making apricot dark chocolate trail mix is easy and can be done in just a few steps. Here are the ingredients you will need:

• 1 cup of almonds
• 1 cup of cashews
• 1 cup of dried apricots, chopped
• 1/2 cup of dark chocolate chunks
• 1/2 cup of unsweetened coconut flakes
• 1/2 tsp of sea salt

Step 1: Toast the Nuts

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Spread the almonds and cashews out on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven for 10-15 minutes, until they are lightly golden and fragrant. Remove them from the oven and allow them to cool completely.

Step 2: Mix Together

Once the nuts have cooled, mix them together with the chopped dried apricots, dark chocolate chunks, unsweetened coconut flakes and sea salt in a large bowl.

Step 3: Store

Transfer the apricot dark chocolate trail mix to an airtight container and store it in a cool, dry place. This mix can be stored for up to two weeks.

Conclusion

Apricot dark chocolate trail mix is a delicious and healthy variation of traditional trail mix. The combination of dried apricots, toasted nuts, dark chocolate chunks, and unsweetened coconut flakes makes for a satisfying and indulgent snack that can be enjoyed anywhere at any time. Whether you're on a hike or simply in need of a mid-afternoon snack, apricot dark chocolate trail mix is a great choice.

Valuable Tips when Making Apricot Dark Chocolate Trail Mix Recipes

Trail mix is a popular snack that can easily be made at home. With so many variations available, one recipe that stands out is the apricot dark chocolate trail mix recipe. This simple yet delicious recipe is a favorite among many, and for good reason. Here are some valuable tips to help you make the best apricot dark chocolate trail mix recipe:

1. Choose high quality ingredients

When making any recipe, it is important to choose high quality ingredients. This is especially true for a recipe like apricot dark chocolate trail mix, where each individual ingredient contributes to the overall flavor and texture of the snack. Opt for high quality dried apricots, dark chocolate chips, nuts and other ingredients. This will ensure that your trail mix tastes great and is of the highest quality.

2. Balance the flavors

It is important to balance the flavors in your trail mix. The sweetness of the apricots and the bitterness of the dark chocolate should be balanced so that neither flavor overpowers the other. You can achieve this balance by using a ratio of one part apricots to one part dark chocolate chips. You can also add nuts or seeds to help balance the flavors.

3. Experiment with different nuts and seeds

One of the best things about making your own trail mix is that you can experiment with different nuts and seeds to find the perfect combination. You can use almonds, cashews, walnuts, macadamia nuts and other nuts to add crunch and flavor to your mix. You can also add pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, chia seeds or flax seeds for added nutrition.

4. Mix everything together thoroughly

When making trail mix, it is important to mix everything thoroughly so that all the ingredients are evenly distributed. This will ensure that each bite of trail mix is balanced in flavor and texture. To mix everything together, simply add all the ingredients to a large bowl and toss until everything is evenly distributed.

5. Store your trail mix properly

Proper storage is key to ensuring that your trail mix stays fresh and delicious. Store your trail mix in an airtight container at room temperature. You can store it for up to a week, but it is best to consume it within a few days to ensure maximum freshness and taste.

6. Use the right ratios

To make the perfect apricot dark chocolate trail mix, you need to use the right ratios of ingredients. A good ratio to follow is 1 part dried apricots to 1 part dark chocolate chips. You can also add nuts and seeds in a 1:1:1 ratio for added crunch and nutrition.

7. Add a touch of salt

Adding a touch of salt to your trail mix can help bring out the flavors of the other ingredients. You can use sea salt or Himalayan pink salt to add a subtle hint of flavor. But be careful not to add too much salt, as it can overpower the other flavors in your trail mix.

8. Customize to your taste

The beauty of making your own trail mix is that you can customize it to your own taste. If you love almonds, add more almonds. If you prefer a sweeter trail mix, add more dried apricots. You can also add different types of nuts and seeds to create your own unique blend of flavors and textures.

9. Add it to your favorite recipes

Trail mix is not just for snacking. You can also use it in your favorite recipes. Sprinkle it on top of your morning oatmeal, add it to your favorite cookie recipe, or use it as a topping for ice cream. The possibilities are endless!

10. Make it in bulk

Finally, if you love apricot dark chocolate trail mix, consider making it in bulk. This is a great option if you want to have a healthy snack on hand throughout the week. Simply double or triple the recipe and store it in an airtight container. This way, you can grab a handful whenever you need a quick and healthy snack.