Acorn & Oak Snack Mix

Featured in: Warm Nutty Plates

This snack mix combines roasted acorns, oak nuts, almonds, pumpkin and sunflower seeds with olive oil and warm spices like smoked paprika and cinnamon. The mixture is roasted until fragrant and golden, then cooled and combined with dried cranberries and optional dark chocolate chips. Its earthy, nutty flavors are perfect for a crunchy, satisfying snack that highlights woodland ingredients and seasonal spices.

Updated on Sat, 29 Nov 2025 12:20:00 GMT
Golden roasted acorn and oak snack mix, a flavorful vegetarian treat with nutty aromas. Save
Golden roasted acorn and oak snack mix, a flavorful vegetarian treat with nutty aromas. | pecangroove.com

A crunchy, nutty snack mix inspired by woodland flavors, combining roasted acorns, oak nuts, and a blend of seeds and spices for a unique, earthy treat.

This snack mix has quickly become a favorite for my family during hikes and cozy evenings by the fire.

Ingredients

  • Nuts & Seeds: 1 cup acorns (leached and roasted see notes), 1/2 cup oak nuts (if unavailable substitute with additional roasted acorns or hazelnuts), 1/2 cup raw almonds, 1/2 cup pumpkin seeds (pepitas), 1/4 cup sunflower seeds
  • Add-Ins: 1/3 cup dried cranberries, 1/3 cup dark chocolate chips (optional)
  • Seasoning: 1 tbsp olive oil, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, 1/2 tsp sea salt, 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon, 1/8 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)

Instructions

Step 1:
Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2:
In a large bowl combine roasted acorns, oak nuts, almonds, pumpkin seeds, and sunflower seeds.
Step 3:
In a small bowl mix olive oil, smoked paprika, sea salt, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper. Drizzle over the nut and seed mixture, tossing well to coat evenly.
Step 4:
Spread the mixture in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 5:
Roast for 15 20 minutes stirring halfway through until fragrant and lightly golden.
Step 6:
Remove from oven and let cool completely.
Step 7:
Mix in dried cranberries and dark chocolate chips (if using).
Step 8:
Store in an airtight container for up to one week.
Save
| pecangroove.com

This snack is perfect for sharing with friends and family during outdoor adventures or casual get togethers.

Notes

Try adding toasted coconut flakes or other dried fruits for variation Pair with a light fruity white wine or a crisp cider

Required Tools

Baking sheet Parchment paper Large mixing bowl Small bowl Spoon or spatula

Allergen Information

Contains tree nuts (acorns oak nuts almonds hazelnuts if substituted) Contains seeds (pumpkin sunflower) Chocolate chips may contain traces of milk or soy check labels if sensitive Always ensure all wild foraged ingredients are correctly identified and processed

Close-up of a rustic bowl filled with crunchy acorn & oak snack mix, ready to eat. Save
Close-up of a rustic bowl filled with crunchy acorn & oak snack mix, ready to eat. | pecangroove.com

Enjoy this wholesome snack mix as a nutritious and flavorful treat anytime.

Recipe Questions & Answers

How should acorns be prepared for this mix?

Acorns must be properly leached to remove bitterness and toxins by soaking in several changes of cold water for days, then drying and roasting before use.

Can I substitute oak nuts if unavailable?

Yes, substitute with extra roasted acorns or hazelnuts to maintain a similar texture and flavor profile.

What spices enhance the flavor of this snack mix?

Smoked paprika, sea salt, ground cinnamon, and a touch of cayenne pepper add warmth and depth to the nut and seed blend.

Is it possible to add sweet elements?

Dried cranberries add a tart sweetness, and optional dark chocolate chips provide rich, contrasting flavor.

How long should the mix be roasted?

Roast at 325°F (165°C) for 15-20 minutes, stirring halfway, until the mixture is fragrant and lightly golden.

What pairs well with this snack?

A light fruity white wine or crisp cider complements the earthy and nutty flavors nicely.

Acorn & Oak Snack Mix

Crunchy mix of roasted acorns, oak nuts, seeds, and spices creating an earthy, nutty treat.

Prep Duration
15 min
Cook Duration
20 min
Overall Time
35 min
By Pecan Groove Holly Emerson

Recipe Group Warm Nutty Plates

Skill Level Medium

Culinary Tradition Fusion

Portions 6 Number of Servings

Diet Concerns Vegetarian-Friendly, No Dairy, No Gluten

What You'll Need

Nuts & Seeds

01 1 cup roasted, leached acorns
02 1/2 cup oak nuts (or substitute with additional roasted acorns or hazelnuts)
03 1/2 cup raw almonds
04 1/2 cup pumpkin seeds (pepitas)
05 1/4 cup sunflower seeds

Add-Ins

01 1/3 cup dried cranberries
02 1/3 cup dark chocolate chips (optional)

Seasoning

01 1 tablespoon olive oil
02 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
03 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
04 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
05 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 01

Preheat oven: Set oven temperature to 325°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 02

Combine nuts and seeds: In a large mixing bowl, mix roasted acorns, oak nuts, almonds, pumpkin seeds, and sunflower seeds evenly.

Step 03

Prepare seasoning: In a small bowl, blend olive oil, smoked paprika, sea salt, ground cinnamon, and cayenne pepper; drizzle over nut and seed mixture and toss to coat uniformly.

Step 04

Arrange for roasting: Spread the coated mixture in a single layer on the parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 05

Roast: Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the mixture is aromatic and lightly golden.

Step 06

Cool mixture: Remove from oven and allow to cool completely at room temperature.

Step 07

Add dried fruits and chocolate: Once cooled, incorporate dried cranberries and dark chocolate chips if desired, mixing gently.

Step 08

Store: Transfer to an airtight container and store for up to one week.

Tools Needed

  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Small bowl
  • Spoon or spatula

Allergy Details

Always check each item for allergens and reach out to your doctor if unsure.
  • Contains tree nuts including acorns, oak nuts, almonds, and possible hazelnut substitutes.
  • Contains seeds such as pumpkin and sunflower seeds.
  • Chocolate chips may contain milk or soy traces; verify if sensitive.
  • Ensure wild foraged ingredients are correctly identified and processed.

Nutrition Details (per serving)

Nutrition info is a guide; don't substitute for professional advice.
  • Calorie Count: 230
  • Fat content: 14 g
  • Carbohydrate: 21 g
  • Protein Amount: 5 g