Apple Butterscotch Confit Square Trail Mix

Apple Butterscotch Confit Square Trail Mix: A Wholesome, Flavorful Snack

When it comes to snacks, we’re often torn between two choices: indulgence or health. Most snacks either fall short in providing the nutrients our bodies need or overdo the sugar and fats, leaving us feeling guilty after munching. But what if you could have a snack that combines both flavor and nutrition? Enter the Apple Butterscotch Confit Square Trail Mix—an indulgent yet healthy snack that blends the goodness of dehydrated apples, butterscotch chips, and crunchy nuts, providing a satisfying munch that’s both delicious and nourishing.

This recipe combines the sweet and chewy texture of dehydrated apples, the buttery richness of butterscotch chips, the crunch of peanuts and pumpkin seeds, and the unique touch of activated granola. Whether you’re heading out for a hike, need an energy boost during a busy day, or just crave a wholesome snack, this trail mix is a perfect fit.

In this blog post, we’ll explore the origins of trail mix, the key ingredients that make this Apple Butterscotch Confit Square Trail Mix stand out, and why this recipe deserves a spot in your snack rotation.

The Origins of Trail Mix

Trail mix, also known as “gorp” in some circles, is a snack that has its roots in the outdoors. Traditionally, it’s a combination of nuts, seeds, dried fruits, and sometimes chocolate or candy, all packaged together in a handy mix that can be easily carried on long treks. The snack’s versatility is one of the reasons it has remained popular for decades. It offers an easy way to combine fats, protein, and carbohydrates to keep your energy levels high, making it an essential food for hikers and backpackers.

Over time, trail mix evolved, with many modern versions containing a wider variety of ingredients. Whether you’re using it as a quick energy boost during outdoor activities or a mid-afternoon snack at your desk, trail mix has become an essential part of snack culture.

Key Ingredients in the Apple Butterscotch Confit Square Trail Mix

This recipe for Apple Butterscotch Confit Square Trail Mix takes the traditional trail mix and elevates it with a combination of wholesome, flavorful ingredients that balance sweetness, crunch, and nutrition. Let’s break down the key ingredients:

1. Dehydrated Apples: Sweet, Chewy, and Nutrient-Rich

The hero ingredient in this trail mix is dehydrated apples. Dehydrating apples removes their water content, making them easy to store and pack. The drying process concentrates the fruit’s natural sugars, resulting in a sweet, chewy treat that’s perfect for trail mix.

Not only are dehydrated apples a delicious addition, but they also come with several health benefits. Apples are an excellent source of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and helps keep you full longer. They also provide vitamin C, an antioxidant that helps support the immune system and promote healthy skin. Apples contain potassium, which supports heart health, and phytonutrients, which have been linked to a reduced risk of chronic diseases.

2. Butterscotch Chips: A Sweet Indulgence with a Rich Flavor

Butterscotch chips are the perfect balance of sweetness and richness. Made from brown sugar and butter, they provide a deep, caramel-like flavor that adds a decadent touch to the trail mix. Butterscotch chips are a great addition for those moments when you want a little indulgence without going overboard.

While they are typically seen as an indulgent treat, these chips can be enjoyed in moderation, especially when paired with nutrient-dense ingredients like apples, nuts, and seeds. Plus, the no sugar added variety, like Lily’s Sweets, provides the same delicious taste without the added guilt.

3. Peanuts: Protein-Packed and Crunchy

Peanuts are a classic ingredient in many trail mixes, and for good reason. They are an excellent source of protein and healthy fats, both of which are essential for maintaining energy levels. The crunchy texture of peanuts provides a satisfying contrast to the soft chewiness of the dehydrated apples, creating a deliciously balanced snack.

In addition to being a great source of protein, peanuts are rich in vitamin E, an antioxidant that supports skin health, and niacin, which helps improve circulation and lower cholesterol levels.

4. Pumpkin Seeds: Tiny But Mighty

Pumpkin seeds, also known as pepitas, are tiny powerhouses of nutrition. They are rich in magnesium, which is vital for maintaining healthy muscle and nerve function, as well as zinc, which is important for immune health and cell growth.

These seeds also provide a satisfying crunch to the trail mix and are high in plant-based protein and healthy fats. They’re also a great source of antioxidants that help protect the body from oxidative stress.

5. Activated Granola: A Crunchy, Nutritious Base

Granola is a common ingredient in trail mix, but activated granola takes it to the next level. Activated granola is made by soaking and dehydrating oats and nuts, which enhances the digestibility and nutrient absorption of the ingredients. The activation process also boosts the availability of minerals like zinc and iron, making it a nutritious addition to any snack.

Granola adds a crispy texture and heartiness to the trail mix, making it feel more like a substantial meal than just a snack. It’s also a great source of fiber, which supports digestive health and helps keep you feeling full.

How to Make Apple Butterscotch Confit Square Trail Mix

Now that we’ve broken down the key ingredients, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making the Apple Butterscotch Confit Square Trail Mix. This recipe is incredibly simple to prepare and can be made in just a few easy steps.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup no-sugar-added butterscotch chips (Lily’s Sweets recommended)

• 1 cup peanuts

• 2 cups dehydrated apples (see recipe below)

• 1/3 cup pumpkin seeds

• 1/3 cup activated granola

For Dehydrated Apples:

• 4-5 honey crisp apples (or any apple of your choice)

• 2 tsp fruit fresh powder or lemon juice

• 3 tbsp water

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Dehydrated Apples

To make your own dehydrated apples, start by slicing 4-5 honey crisp apples into quarters, removing the cores. Cut each quarter into thirds lengthwise, then chop the pieces into small cubes, about ½ inch in size.

Next, create a mixture by dissolving 2 teaspoons of fruit fresh powder (or lemon juice) in 3 tablespoons of water. Toss the apple cubes into the mixture, ensuring each piece is well-coated to prevent browning.

Place the apple cubes in a dehydrator set at 135°F for 8-10 hours or until the apples are dry and chewy. The result will be perfectly dehydrated apples that add both sweetness and texture to your trail mix.

Step 2: Assemble the Trail Mix

In a large mixing bowl, combine the following ingredients:

• Dehydrated apples (from step 1)

• Butterscotch chips

• Peanuts

• Pumpkin seeds

• Activated granola

Gently stir everything together to ensure that all ingredients are evenly distributed.

Step 3: Store and Enjoy

Once your trail mix is fully mixed, transfer it to an airtight container for storage. You can keep it at room temperature for up to 2 weeks, making it a convenient on-the-go snack. If you plan to store it for longer periods, keep it in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness.

Make Also: Tropical Passion Fruit Smoothie Bowl

Health Benefits of the Apple Butterscotch Confit Square Trail Mix

While trail mix is often considered a snack for those who need quick energy, the Apple Butterscotch Confit Square Trail Mix offers several health benefits:

1. Balanced Macronutrients: This trail mix offers a perfect balance of protein, healthy fats, and carbohydrates, making it an excellent choice for sustaining energy levels during outdoor activities or as a midday snack.

2. Rich in Antioxidants: The apples, pumpkin seeds, and granola provide a healthy dose of antioxidants, which help protect the body from oxidative stress and reduce inflammation.

3. High in Fiber: With ingredients like apples, peanuts, and granola, this trail mix is an excellent source of fiber, which promotes digestive health and helps you feel full for longer periods.

4. Packed with Vitamins and Minerals: From the vitamin C in apples to the magnesium in pumpkin seeds, this trail mix provides a wide range of essential vitamins and minerals that support overall health.

5. Customizable: This recipe is highly customizable to your taste preferences. Feel free to swap out the peanuts for almonds or cashews, or add other dried fruits like cranberries or raisins to enhance the flavor.

Conclusion

The Apple Butterscotch Confit Square Trail Mix is the perfect blend of sweet, savory, and crunchy, making it a delightful and nutritious snack. Whether you’re hitting the trails or simply need a snack that satisfies both your hunger and taste buds, this recipe checks all the boxes. With its nutrient-dense ingredients and customizable nature, it’s a snack that everyone in the family can enjoy.