This Dark Chocolate Trail Mix is the perfect snack—crunchy, nutty, slightly sweet, and packed with rich, sugar-free dark chocolate. Whether you need a quick energy boost, a satisfying snack for hiking, or a guilt-free treat, this keto-friendly trail mix will keep you fueled without the sugar crash.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Cost per Serving: $1.50
- Calories per Serving: 210 kcal
The idea for this Dark Chocolate Trail Mix came from my search for a snack that was both indulgent and healthy. Store-bought trail mixes often contain dried fruits, sugary chocolate, and unnecessary additives. I wanted something low in carbs, high in healthy fats, and with that perfect balance of crunch and sweetness.
This mix features toasted nuts, seeds, unsweetened coconut, and rich dark chocolate chunks, all blended to create a delicious, nutrient-dense snack. It’s perfect for meal prepping—just portion it out and have it ready for a grab-and-go option anytime.
Whether you’re hiking, traveling, or just need a satisfying bite between meals, this trail mix delivers on flavor and nutrition
Why You’ll Love This Dark Chocolate Trail Mix Recipe
Big on flavor, low on carbs – Most trail mixes are packed with sugary dried fruit and candy-coated chocolate. Not this one. Every bite delivers crunchy nuts, rich dark chocolate, and just the right touch of salt and spice—without the sugar crash.
Dark chocolate heaven – If you’re a fan of deep, intense chocolate flavor, this mix is for you. The sugar-free dark chocolate chunks melt ever so slightly in your hand, coating the nuts in rich cocoa goodness. It’s indulgent without being overwhelming.
The perfect crunch factor – With a mix of buttery macadamias, crispy pumpkin seeds, and toasty coconut, every handful is a new combination of flavors and textures.
Totally customizable – Want more chocolate? Go for it. Prefer cashews over walnuts? Swap them in. You can easily adjust this mix to fit your cravings.
Meal-prep friendly – Make a batch, portion it into snack-sized bags, and you’ve got an easy, grab-and-go snack for the whole week. It’s great for road trips, office snacks, or post-workout fuel—no refrigeration needed.
One bite, and you’ll see why this Dark Chocolate Trail Mix is about to become your new go-to snack.
How to make this Dark Chocolate Trail Mix recipe
Ingredients
The exact measurements for each ingredient can be found in the recipe card below!
Almonds – Crunchy, protein-packed, and naturally slightly sweet, almonds are the backbone of this trail mix. They add a satisfying bite and a boost of healthy fats to keep you full longer.
Pecans – Buttery and rich, pecans bring a softer crunch that balances out the firmer texture of almonds. If you’re a fan of warm, nutty flavors, you’ll love what pecans bring to the mix.
Walnuts – Slightly earthy with a hint of bitterness, walnuts add depth to every handful. Plus, they’re loaded with omega-3s, making this snack as nutritious as it is delicious.
Macadamia Nuts – The MVP of keto-friendly nuts! Macadamias are ultra-creamy, subtly sweet, and packed with good-for-you fats. They practically melt in your mouth.
Pumpkin Seeds – These little green gems provide a light, crispy crunch and a dose of magnesium. Toasted or raw, they round out the nutty flavors beautifully.
Unsweetened Coconut Flakes – Light, toasty, and naturally sweet without the sugar. They bring a tropical note that pairs surprisingly well with dark chocolate.
Dark Chocolate Chunks – The star ingredient. Look for sugar-free or 85%+ dark chocolate for the perfect balance of richness and bitterness. It melts slightly as you snack, creating little pockets of chocolatey goodness in every bite.
Cacao Nibs (Optional) – If you love deep, intense chocolate flavor, cacao nibs add an extra layer of crunch and a touch of natural bitterness.
Unsweetened Dried Cranberries or Goji Berries (Optional) – Just a hint of natural tartness can make the chocolate and nuts pop. Keep it minimal to stay low-carb.
Sea Salt – A pinch of salt enhances all the flavors, making the chocolate taste richer and the nuts even more addictive.
Cinnamon – Warm, cozy, and slightly sweet, cinnamon takes this mix to the next level. It’s the secret ingredient that makes everything taste just a little more special.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Toast the Nuts & Coconut (Optional, But Worth It)
If you want to bring out the deep, nutty flavors, grab a dry skillet and heat it over medium. Add the almonds, pecans, walnuts, macadamia nuts, and coconut flakes in a single layer. Stir occasionally and toast for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden. Keep an eye on them—nuts go from perfectly toasted to burnt in seconds! If you’re short on time, you can skip this step, but trust me, the flavor boost is worth it.
2. Mix It Up
In a large mixing bowl, toss together the toasted (or raw) nuts, pumpkin seeds, dark chocolate chunks, and cacao nibs. If you’re adding dried cranberries or goji berries, now’s the time to mix them in.
3. Add a Flavor Boost
Sprinkle in sea salt and cinnamon, then give everything a good toss to make sure every nut and chocolate chunk gets evenly coated in that sweet-salty goodness. If you love a little extra warmth, a pinch of cayenne works wonders here.
4. Store & Snack
Transfer your trail mix to an airtight container or portion it into small snack-sized bags for easy grab-and-go servings. Store at room temperature for up to 2 weeks, or in the fridge for extra freshness.
That’s it—no baking, no fuss, just a perfectly balanced, crunchy, chocolatey snack ready in minutes!
Dark Chocolate Trail Mix Pro Tips
Toast your nuts (seriously, do it). It takes just a few minutes, but the difference in flavor is huge. Toasted nuts have a richer, deeper taste and a bit of extra crunch that makes every bite more satisfying.
Go for quality dark chocolate. Since chocolate is the star here, pick a sugar-free or 85%+ dark chocolate that melts just a little when you hold it. It adds that perfect, indulgent touch without the sugar overload.
Pre-portion for easy snacking. It’s easy to overdo it when you’re snacking straight from the jar. Measure out ¼-cup servings into small containers or snack bags so you have the perfect grab-and-go portion ready to roll.
Mix up the flavors. Love spice? Add a pinch of cayenne for a sweet-heat kick. Prefer a little more sweetness? A touch of monk fruit sweetener does wonders.
Store it right. Keep your trail mix in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks, or in the fridge for an even longer shelf life. If it’s hot where you live, chilling it prevents the chocolate from melting all over everything (unless you’re into that, no judgment).
With these tips, your Dark Chocolate Trail Mix will be next-level delicious every time!
Perfect Pairings & When to Serve
On-the-Go Energy Boost – Whether you’re heading out for a hike, running errands, or need a midday pick-me-up, this trail mix is the ultimate snack to keep you fueled without the sugar crash.
With Your Morning Coffee – The rich, slightly bitter dark chocolate + a hot cup of coffee? Absolute perfection. Sprinkle some trail mix over Greek yogurt for an even more satisfying breakfast.
Post-Workout Fuel – Packed with healthy fats, protein, and just the right amount of carbs, this mix helps replenish energy after a tough workout—without the need for artificial protein bars.
Movie Night Snack – Skip the sugary popcorn and munch on this crunchy, chocolatey mix instead. Bonus points if you add a sprinkle of flaky sea salt for that sweet-salty balance.
Road Trip Must-Have – No more gas station junk food! Pack a bag of this trail mix for long drives or flights. It’s mess-free, portable, and way more satisfying than anything you’d find at an airport.
Late-Night Craving Fix – When that post-dinner sweet tooth hits, a handful of this dark chocolate trail mix gives you that perfect hit of crunch and cocoa—without the sugar overload.
Each of these drinks makes a deliciously cozy match for your homemade trail mix—give them a try!
- Hot Chocolate with Marshmallows – Cozy up with a warm mug of rich hot chocolate while enjoying a handful of this crunchy trail mix. The combination of creamy cocoa and dark chocolate chunks is pure comfort!
- Mocha Cappuccino – Need an afternoon pick-me-up? Pair this low-carb trail mix with a bold mocha cappuccino for the perfect mix of coffee, chocolate, and crunch.
- Christmas Hot Chocolate – Whether it’s the holiday season or you just want a festive treat, enjoy this spiced hot chocolate with a handful of dark chocolate trail mix for an indulgent yet healthy snack.
No matter how you enjoy it, this trail mix is the kind of snack you’ll keep coming back to!
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
- Mixing Bowl – A large bowl makes it easy to toss everything together without spilling nuts all over the counter. Bonus points if it’s deep enough to really mix without making a mess.
- Airtight Storage Containers – Keep your trail mix fresh and crunchy by storing it in glass jars, resealable bags, or meal-prep containers. If you’re on the go, small portioned snack bags are a lifesaver!
FAQ about Dark Chocolate Trail Mix
Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
You can, but it will increase the sugar content. If you want a creamier chocolate flavor while keeping it low-carb, go for a sugar-free milk chocolate option instead.
How long does this trail mix last?
Stored in an airtight container, it stays fresh for up to 2 weeks at room temperature or a month in the fridge. If you live somewhere warm, chilling it helps prevent the chocolate from melting.
Can I make this nut-free?
Absolutely! Swap out the nuts for extra pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, and coconut flakes. You’ll still get that amazing crunch without the allergens.
What’s the best way to store it?
Keep it in a sealed jar or portioned snack bags. If you like your chocolate firm and crisp, store it in the fridge. Prefer it slightly melty? Keep it at room temp.
Can I add peanut butter?
Yes! Melt a little sugar-free peanut butter and drizzle it over the nuts before mixing for a next-level, sweet-salty flavor boost.
Is this trail mix keto-friendly?
Yep! As long as you use 85% dark chocolate (or sugar-free chocolate) and skip the dried fruit, this mix is completely keto-approved.
Got more questions? Drop them in the comments—I’d love to help!
Print
Dark Chocolate Trail Mix
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Dark Chocolate Trail Mix is the perfect balance of crunchy, salty, and chocolatey goodness—all while being low in carbs and sugar-free! Made with a mix of toasted nuts, coconut, pumpkin seeds, and rich dark chocolate chunks, it’s the ultimate grab-and-go snack for busy days, hikes, or just satisfying those sweet cravings.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients:
½ cup almonds – Crunchy and protein-packed for energy.
½ cup pecans – Buttery and rich, perfect for a keto snack.
¼ cup walnuts – Slightly bitter and full of omega-3s.
¼ cup macadamia nuts – Super creamy and high in healthy fats.
¼ cup pumpkin seeds – Adds a light, crispy crunch.
¼ cup unsweetened coconut flakes – Toasted for extra flavor.
Chocolate & Sweet Elements:
⅓ cup sugar-free dark chocolate chunks (85%+ cocoa) – Melts just enough for a rich, indulgent bite.
1 tbsp cacao nibs (optional) – Extra crunch and deep chocolate flavor.
1 tbsp unsweetened dried cranberries or goji berries (optional) – Just a touch for color and tartness.
Flavor Boosters:
¼ tsp sea salt – Enhances all the flavors.
½ tsp cinnamon – A warm spice that pairs perfectly with dark chocolate.
Instructions
Heat a dry skillet over medium heat. Add almonds, pecans, walnuts, macadamia nuts, and coconut flakes, stirring occasionally. Toast for 2-3 minutes until golden and fragrant. Be careful—nuts can burn quickly!
In a large bowl, combine the toasted nuts, pumpkin seeds, dark chocolate chunks, and cacao nibs. If using dried cranberries or goji berries, toss them in now.
Sprinkle in sea salt and cinnamon, then give everything a good toss to evenly coat.
Transfer to an airtight container or portion into snack-sized bags for easy grab-and-go servings. Store at room temperature for 2 weeks or in the fridge for extra freshness.
Notes
- Want more chocolate? Increase the dark chocolate chunks or cacao nibs for extra richness.
- Nut-free version? Swap nuts for extra pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, and coconut flakes.
- Spicy twist? Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a sweet-heat combo.
- Best way to store? Keep in an airtight container at room temp or refrigerate to prevent chocolate from melting.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Table Toppers
- Method: No Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 210kcal
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 4g
Keywords: Dark Chocolate Trail Mix , keto trail mix, dark chocolate snack, low-carb trail mix, healthy trail mix, sugar-free snack, easy keto snack
Yum yum
yumy!!!