Acorn & Oak Snack Mix

Featured in: Seasonal Cooking

This snack mix combines roasted acorns, oak nuts, almonds, and a variety of seeds, all tossed in olive oil and warming spices like smoked paprika and cinnamon. Roasting enhances the nutty depth while dried cranberries add a subtle sweet contrast. It's a wholesome, crunchy treat perfect for those seeking an earthy and unique flavor profile. Preparation involves leaching acorns to remove bitterness, then roasting the blend until fragrant and golden. Ideal for snacking or pairing with light beverages.

Updated on Sat, 29 Nov 2025 13:10:00 GMT
Golden-brown delicious Acorn & Oak Snack Mix with a blend of crunchy nuts and seeds in a bowl. Pin
Golden-brown delicious Acorn & Oak Snack Mix with a blend of crunchy nuts and seeds in a bowl. | potfuljoy.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 is a favorite snack mix that brings the woods into my kitchen and always delights family and friends alike.

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 to 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.
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Sharing this snack mix has become a cherished family moment that brings everyone together over a delightful treat.

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 freshly made Acorn & Oak Snack Mix; a vegetarian snack with a perfect mix of textures. Pin
Close-up of freshly made Acorn & Oak Snack Mix; a vegetarian snack with a perfect mix of textures. | potfuljoy.com

This snack mix is a perfect balance of flavors and textures that can be enjoyed anytime.

Recipe Q&A

How do I safely prepare acorns for this mix?

Shell and chop acorns, then soak them in several changes of cold water until bitterness fades, which may take days. Dry and roast them before use.

Can I substitute oak nuts if unavailable?

Yes, use additional roasted acorns or hazelnuts as alternatives to replicate a similar texture and flavor.

What spices enhance this nut and seed blend?

Smoked paprika, sea salt, ground cinnamon, and optional cayenne pepper bring warmth and depth to the mix.

Is this mix suitable for vegetarian and gluten-free diets?

Yes, all ingredients are naturally vegetarian and gluten-free, making it a safe choice for these dietary preferences.

How should I store the snack mix for freshness?

Keep the mix in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week to maintain crunch and flavor.

Acorn & Oak Snack Mix

Nutty blend of roasted acorns, oak nuts, seeds, and spices delivering a crunchy, earthy snack experience.

Preparation time
15 min
Cooking time
20 min
Total time
35 min

Category Seasonal Cooking

Difficulty Medium

Origin Fusion

Yield 6 Servings

Dietary specifications Vegetarian, Dairy-free, Gluten-free

Ingredients

Nuts & Seeds

01 1 cup leached and roasted 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)

Instructions

Step 01

Prepare Oven and Baking Sheet: Preheat oven to 325°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 02

Combine Nuts and Seeds: In a large bowl, mix the roasted acorns, oak nuts, raw almonds, pumpkin seeds, and sunflower seeds.

Step 03

Season the Mixture: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, smoked paprika, sea salt, ground cinnamon, and cayenne pepper. Drizzle over the nut and seed blend, tossing thoroughly for even coating.

Step 04

Arrange for Roasting: Spread the seasoned mixture evenly on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.

Step 05

Roast the Snack Mix: Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring once halfway through, until fragrant and lightly golden.

Step 06

Cool and Add Final Ingredients: Remove from oven and allow the mix to cool completely. Stir in dried cranberries and dark chocolate chips if using.

Step 07

Store Properly: Transfer mix to an airtight container. Store at room temperature for up to one week.

Required equipment

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

Allergen information

Review each ingredient to identify potential allergens and if uncertain, please consult a healthcare professional.
  • Contains tree nuts including acorns, oak nuts, almonds, and potentially hazelnuts.
  • Contains seeds such as pumpkin and sunflower.
  • Dark chocolate chips may contain milk or soy traces; verify labels if sensitive.
  • Exercise caution with wild foraged ingredients ensuring proper identification and preparation.

Nutritional values (per serving)

These values are provided as a general guide only and shouldn't replace professional medical advice.
  • Calories: 230
  • Fat: 14 g
  • Carbs: 21 g
  • Protein: 5 g