Trail Mix can be fun and easy to make. Children love to help out, and parents like the fact that they can control the ingredients. Unlike most chips or cookies, trail mix can be high in vitamins and fiber. Keep an eye on what you use; many nuts and dried fruit, while healthy, can still be high in calories. Remember, too, that many of the ingredients can pose a choking hazard for small children. Store the homemade trail mix in small, airtight zipper bags to control the portions and keep it fresh.
Common Ingredients
There is no "right way" to make homemade trail mix. You control what you put in. Many children love dried fruit. Experiment with different kinds. Raisins and apples are the most common, but dried strawberries, blueberries, apricots and bananas are also great in trail mix. Nuts and seeds are also popular trail mix ingredients. If you child loves sunflower seeds, try roasted pumpkin seeds. Peanuts, walnuts, almonds, cashews, even pistachios or macadamia nuts can be a great addition. Popcorn, pretzels, granola, chow mein noodles, cereal and puffed rice also work well in trail mix. Make sure you check the nutrition facts for salt, sugar and fat content, and adjust your recipes accordingly. As an extra treat, a small amount of chocolate or peanut butter chips, M&Ms, or mini marshmallows can be added. If you're going camping, keep in mind that chocolate can melt. Try adding other small, dry foods that your child loves; chances are that they will work well in trail mix.
GORP
GORP stands for "Good Old Raisins and Peanuts", and in its simplest form that's what it is. The recipe is simple, mix raisins and peanuts together. A staple of Boy and Girl Scout camping trips, GORP stores well. Sometimes M&M's are added, but keep them to a minimum. For a fun variation trying adding almonds or sunflower seeds along with the peanuts or dried apples pieces with the raisins.
Cereal
Another great way to make a healthy trail mix is by using a favorite cereal. Check the sugar content in the cereal before proceeding! Pour several cups of cereal in a bowl, then add your choice of sunflower seeds, peanuts, cashews, almonds, walnuts or another favorite nut. Add dried fruit as well. Experiment with different kinds of fruit. Dried papaya or mango adds a totally different taste to the trail mix.
Popcorn
Air popped popcorn can be a great ingredient in trail mix. Make sure that it's air popped, because even microwave popcorn has extra salt, fat and calories. Add pretzels and maybe even a handful of mini marshmallows. Graham cracker bears can be the perfect addition to the mixture. Some children like dried fruit or even a small amount of coconut included.
Tags: dried fruit, sunflower seeds, child loves, different kinds, Experiment with
