Tangy Cool Ranch Jerky Trail Mix Recipe for Happy Hikers

Cool ranch seasoning adds a zesty kick to this homemade trail mix that breaks free from boring snack routines.

Crunchy nuts and savory dried meat create a protein-packed adventure for hungry explorers.

Salty and tangy flavors merge into an irresistible combination you can’t stop munching.

Each handful delivers a punch of energy perfect for hiking or midday desk breaks.

Mixing your own blend means total control over ingredients and intensity of ranch-style seasoning.

Crafting this portable snack takes just minutes and promises to become your new go-to travel companion.

Pack some in your backpack and watch how quickly friends request a taste.

Foods That Match Cool Ranch Jerky Trail Mix

• Pair this zesty Cool Ranch Jerky Trail Mix with crisp lager beer to complement the tangy ranch seasoning and balance the salty crunch.
• Enjoy a cold sparkling citrus soda or lemonade that cuts through the mix's richness and provides a bright, refreshing counterpoint.
• Serve alongside creamy dips like ranch or blue cheese to enhance the existing ranch flavor profile and provide a smooth contrast to the crunchy mix.
• Create a charcuterie board featuring soft cheeses, fresh apple slices, and cured meats that harmonize with the jerky's savory notes and trail mix complexity.

Fun Add-Ins for Cool Ranch Jerky Trail Mix

• Gluten-Free Crunch: Replace pretzels and crackers with gluten-free alternatives like rice crackers or gluten-free pretzels to accommodate celiac or gluten-sensitive individuals.
• Spicy Southwest Kick: Swap ranch seasoning for a spicy southwestern blend, adding cayenne pepper and chipotle powder for heat-loving snack enthusiasts.
• Low-Sodium Option: Use low-sodium jerky and reduce ranch seasoning to cut down on salt content, perfect for those monitoring sodium intake.
• Vegetarian Protein Swap: Replace meat jerky with plant-based jerky made from soy, mushroom, or jackfruit to create a vegetarian-friendly trail mix that still packs protein.

FAQs for Cool Ranch Jerky Trail Mix

• Is this trail mix healthy?

While tasty, it’s a high-protein snack with some nutritional benefits from nuts and jerky, but also contains processed chips and crackers. Moderation is key.

• Can I make my own ranch seasoning?

Yes! Mix dried dill, dried chives, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and dried parsley. This allows you to control salt and customize flavor intensity.

• What type of jerky works best?

Beef jerky is traditional, but turkey or chicken jerky can work well. Choose a jerky with minimal added sugars for a balanced flavor profile.

• How long will the trail mix stay fresh?

When stored in an airtight container at room temperature, the mix will stay crisp and fresh for about 7-10 days. Avoid humid environments to maintain crunchiness.

Cool Ranch Jerky Trail Mix with Bold Flavor

• Perfect for Busy Lifestyles
• Takes only 20 minutes from start to finish, making this trail mix ideal for people with tight schedules who want a delicious, homemade snack.
• Easily swap ingredients based on personal preferences or pantry availability, allowing flexibility for different taste buds and dietary needs.
• Cool ranch seasoning transforms ordinary ingredients into an addictive, zesty mix that appeals to both kids and adults, perfect for gatherings or road trips.
• Stores beautifully in airtight containers, staying fresh for days and providing a convenient grab-and-go option for work, school, or outdoor adventures.

What You’ll Need for Cool Ranch Jerky Trail Mix

• Jerky: Lean protein source with bold flavor, choose grass-fed or premium quality beef jerky.
• Nuts: Crunchy protein addition, select raw or lightly salted varieties.

• Pretzels, Corn Chips, Corn Nuts, Crackers: Salty and crispy base elements, mix different textures for interesting snack experience, select low-sodium options for healthier version.

• Ranch Seasoning Mix: Provides zesty flavor profile, use commercial packet or homemade blend.
• Olive Oil, Melted Butter: Helps seasonings adhere to mix ingredients, choose high-quality extra virgin olive oil or unsalted butter for best results.

How to Mix Up Cool Ranch Jerky Trail Mix

Step 1: Prepare Oven (Optional)

If you want a toasted mix, preheat the oven to 250°F (120°C). This step enhances the flavors and adds a crispy texture to your trail mix.

Step 2: Create Base Mix

• Jerky (torn or chopped into bite-sized pieces)
• Pretzels
• Corn chips
• Mixed nuts
• Crackers
• Corn nuts

Step 3: Craft Ranch Seasoning Blend

• Ranch seasoning mix
• Olive oil (or melted butter)

Step 4: Coat Trail Mix

Drizzle the ranch seasoning mixture over the trail mix. Use a spatula or clean hands to toss and ensure every morsel gets an even coating of flavor.

Step 5: Toast Mix (Optional)

If desired, spread the seasoned mix on a baking sheet in a single layer. Slide into the preheated oven and toast for 15-20 minutes, stirring once halfway through to prevent burning.

Step 6: Cool and Store

Allow the trail mix to cool completely at room temperature. Transfer to an airtight container to maintain crunchiness and freshness.

Tips for Keeping Cool Ranch Jerky Trail Mix Crisp

• Toast for Extra Crunch: Briefly baking the trail mix at 250F enhances the texture and deepens the flavors of each ingredient for a more satisfying snack experience.
• Customize Your Mix: Swap out ingredients based on dietary preferences or pantry availability, like using gluten-free pretzels or alternative nuts to suit personal tastes.
• Even Seasoning Matters: Drizzle the ranch seasoning slowly and toss thoroughly to ensure every piece gets an equal coating of delicious ranch flavor.
• Smart Storage Solution: Keep the trail mix in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, maintaining its crispy texture and zesty taste.
• Portion Control Trick: Divide the mix into small zip-lock bags for easy grab-and-go snacking during hiking, road trips, or busy workdays.

Store Cool Ranch Jerky Trail Mix Without Losing Texture

• Store trail mix in an airtight container or sealed zip-lock bag to maintain crispness and prevent staleness for up to 7 days.
• Keep mix in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight if consuming within 3-4 days to preserve texture and flavor.
• Transfer mix to a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag, removing excess air to prevent freezer burn and extend shelf life up to 2 months.
• Spread mixture on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated oven at 250F for 5-7 minutes to restore crunchiness and revive seasoning flavors.

Cool Ranch Jerky Trail Mix Recipe

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4.6 from 15 reviews

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Spicy cool ranch jerky trail mix delivers a wild flavor adventure through crunchy, savory landscapes. Bold textures and zesty seasonings combine for an epic snacking experience you’ll crave on any outdoor journey.

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Ingredients

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Protein:

• 1 cup beef jerky, chopped into bite-sized pieces

Crunchy Snacks:

• 1 cup mini pretzels
• 1 cup corn chips (like Fritos)
• 1 cup roasted almonds or peanuts
• 1 cup cheese crackers (like Cheez-Its)
• 1 cup ranch-flavored corn nuts or seasoned tortilla strips

Seasoning and Binding:

• 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) ranch seasoning mix (store-bought or homemade)
• 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) olive oil or melted butter (for tossing)

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 250°F (120°C) for an optional toasted flavor profile.
2. Gather a spacious mixing vessel and combine all dry components: jerky pieces, crispy pretzels, crunchy corn chips, assorted nuts, savory crackers, and hearty corn nuts.
3. In a separate compact bowl, whisk ranch seasoning with olive oil or melted butter until thoroughly integrated.
4. Cascade the seasoned liquid over the dry mixture, gently tossing with a spatula to ensure uniform coating.
5. If pursuing a toasted variation, distribute the seasoned mixture across a large baking sheet in an even layer.
6. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 15-20 minutes, stirring midway to promote consistent heating.
7. Remove from oven and allow the trail mix to cool completely at room temperature, which helps maintain its crisp texture.
8. Transfer the cooled mixture into an airtight storage container to preserve freshness and crunchiness.
9. Enjoy immediately or store for future snacking convenience.

Notes

• Toast nuts beforehand to enhance their natural flavors and crunchiness, creating a more robust taste profile.
• Replace corn chips with lower-sodium alternatives for a healthier version of the trail mix.
• Customize seasoning by adjusting ranch mix quantities or using homemade ranch powder to control salt and spice levels.
• Store mix in portioned zip-lock bags for convenient grab-and-go snacking during outdoor adventures or workday energy boosts.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Snacks
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 20 g
• Sodium: 200 mg
• Fat: 12 g
• Saturated Fat: 2 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 34 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 6 g
• Cholesterol: 0 mg