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Easy Maple Pecan Snack Mix: Best Sweet & Salty Fall Recipe

maple pecan snack mix - featured image

A sweet and salty snack mix featuring crunchy pecans, crispy pretzels, chewy dried cranberries, and a glossy maple coating. Perfect for fall gatherings, game days, or cozy nights in.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups pecan halves (about 12 ounces)
  • 1/3 cup pure maple syrup (80 ml)
  • 2 tablespoons coconut oil, melted
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon coarse sea salt, plus more for finishing
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 2 cups mini pretzels (about 6 ounces)
  • 1 cup dried cranberries (about 5 ounces)
  • 1 cup rolled oats (not quick oats)
  • 1/2 cup pumpkin seeds (pepitas, optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Spread the pecans on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Toast them for 5 minutes, just until they start smelling warm and nutty. Pull them out and set them aside for a minute.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, melted coconut oil, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and 1 teaspoon of coarse sea salt until well combined and the salt has mostly dissolved.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the toasted pecans, mini pretzels, rolled oats, and pumpkin seeds (if using). Pour the maple mixture over the top and toss gently with a spatula until everything is evenly coated.
  5. Spread the mixture back onto the parchment-lined baking sheet in an even layer, avoiding overlap.
  6. Bake for 18-22 minutes, stirring halfway through. At the 10-minute mark, pull the pan out, stir, and spread back out. Bake until pecans are golden brown and oats look toasty.
  7. Let the mix cool completely on the baking sheet for at least 30 minutes to 1 hour.
  8. Once completely cool, break up any large clusters and transfer to a serving bowl. Sprinkle with a little extra flaky sea salt right before serving.
  9. Stir in the dried cranberries gently so they distribute evenly.

Notes

If your kitchen is humid, the mix might lose some crunch after a day or two. Just pop it back in a 300°F oven for 5 minutes to re-crisp. Add dried fruit after baking to keep it chewy. For best flavor, make 2-3 days in advance.

Nutrition

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