You know that moment during the holidays when you need a little something sweet, but you also don’t want to turn on the oven for the tenth time this week? Yeah, me too. That’s exactly why this Holiday Trail Mix with M&Ms is my go-to. It’s the perfect little project to do with kiddos, a lifesaver for last-minute hostess gifts, and the answer to that 3 p.m. cookie craving. Honestly, it’s just so much fun to make.
Why You’ll Love This
This isn’t just another recipe; it’s your secret weapon. We’re talking five minutes of effort for a big payoff. It’s endlessly customizable based on what you have in your pantry, it travels like a dream to parties and potlucks, and it satisfies both the chocolate lovers and the salty snackers in your life. No baking required. So good.
Ditch Dinner Stress — Cook Smart, Not Hard 🍽️
35 quick & budget-friendly 5-ingredient dinners to save your evenings. Simple. Delicious. Ready in 30 minutes or less.
Equipements Needed
- A large mixing bowl (the bigger, the better for tossing everything together without making a mess)
- A sturdy spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups
- Airtight containers or festive cellophane bags for gifting
Ingredients
- 2 cups pretzel twists: For that salty crunch we all crave.
- 1 cup roasted, salted almonds: Adds protein and a toasty flavor.
- 1 cup holiday M&Ms: Brings the festive color and chocolatey sweetness.
- 1 cup dried cranberries: A chewy, tart pop that just screams Christmas.
- 1 cup white chocolate chips: For a creamy, sweet contrast.
- 1/2 cup pepitas (pumpkin seeds): An extra crunch and a little green touch.
Step By Step
- Grab that large mixing bowl and dump in the pretzels, almonds, dried cranberries, and pepitas.
- Give everything a gentle but thorough stir with your spoon to start combining.
- Now, carefully add the M&Ms and white chocolate chips. I like to fold these in last so the colors don’t get muddy from stirring.
- Mix it all together until every piece seems to have a friendly neighbor. That’s it! You’re done.
Variations & Substitutions
This recipe is more of a guideline—make it your own! For a nut-free version, swap the almonds for more pretzels and sunflower seeds. Not a fan of white chocolate? Milk or dark chocolate chips are a perfect substitute. You could add a dash of holiday spirit with some cinnamon candies or even a handful of broken-up candy canes for a cool minty twist. And if you’re feeling a little adventurous, a light drizzle of melted chocolate over the whole mix once it’s combined makes it feel extra special.
Serving Ideas & Pairings
This trail mix is the ultimate crowd-pleaser at any Christmas party. Set out a big bowl for guests to nibble on with cocktails or mocktails. It’s also one of my favorite simple Christmas desserts to pack into little cellophane bags tied with a ribbon for a sweet party favor. For a cozy night in, pair a small bowl with a hot chocolate or a mug of coffee for the perfect sweet-and-salty treat.
Storage & Reheating
Store your mix in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. The key is keeping it sealed tight to prevent the pretzels from getting stale. There’s no need to refrigerate or reheat it. If you’ve added candy canes, know that they might get a little sticky over time, so I’d enjoy that version within a few days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to a month in a freezer-safe bag.
Pro Tips for Perfect Trail Mix
- Go for the mini pretzels if you can find them—they mix in and eat a little easier.
- If your nuts aren’t roasted, pop them on a baking sheet in a 350°F oven for 8-10 minutes to wake up their flavor. Let them cool completely before mixing!
- For gifting, layering the ingredients in a clear jar looks beautiful and keeps the fragile items from getting crushed.
- Honestly, the best tip is to taste as you go. Prefer more chocolate? Add more! It’s your mix.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this trail mix ahead of time?
Absolutely! It’s one of the best make-ahead Christmas food ideas. Just wait to add the M&Ms until the day you plan to serve or gift it if you want to keep their colors from potentially bleeding into the mix.
What are some other easy Christmas treats?
If you love this no-bake option, you might also enjoy simple recipes like rice cereal treats with holiday sprinkles, chocolate-dipped pretzel rods, or a festive cheeseball with crackers. All are fantastic, easy Christmas desserts that come together in a flash.
Is this a good holiday treat for cookie exchanges?
While it’s not a cookie, it’s a wonderful alternative to bring to a exchange, especially for anyone who might be overwhelmed with sweets. It offers a nice salty break and is always a huge hit. It’s truly one of the most versatile holiday treats.