Acorn Oak Snack Mix

Featured in: Warm Baked Comforts

This mix combines roasted acorns and oak nuts with almonds, pumpkin, and sunflower seeds, lightly seasoned with smoked paprika, cinnamon, and cayenne for warmth. Roasting brings out a nutty crunch, and dried cranberries plus optional chocolate chips add a touch of sweetness. Perfectly balanced for a satisfying, earthy snack with wholesome ingredients and a hint of spice.

Updated on Sat, 29 Nov 2025 15:26:00 GMT
A tempting bowl of spicy and sweet acorn & oak snack mix, freshly roasted and ready to eat. Save to Pinterest
A tempting bowl of spicy and sweet acorn & oak snack mix, freshly roasted and ready to eat. | orchardbowl.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.

I first enjoyed this snack mix on a cool autumn afternoon and immediately loved the crunchy texture and earthy flavors it offers.

Ingredients

  • Acorns: 1 cup leached and roasted (see notes)
  • Oak nuts: 1/2 cup (if unavailable, substitute with additional roasted acorns or hazelnuts)
  • Raw almonds: 1/2 cup
  • Pumpkin seeds (pepitas): 1/2 cup
  • Sunflower seeds: 1/4 cup
  • Dried cranberries: 1/3 cup
  • Dark chocolate chips (optional): 1/3 cup
  • Olive oil: 1 tbsp
  • Smoked paprika: 1/2 tsp
  • Sea salt: 1/2 tsp
  • Ground cinnamon: 1/4 tsp
  • Cayenne pepper (optional): 1/8 tsp

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.
Golden-brown, crunchy acorn & oak snack mix boasting earthy flavors and a hint of smoky spice. Save to Pinterest
Golden-brown, crunchy acorn & oak snack mix boasting earthy flavors and a hint of smoky spice. | orchardbowl.com

This recipe always brings back warm family memories of cozy gatherings where everyone enjoys snacking together.

Required Tools

Baking sheet, parchment paper, large mixing bowl, small bowl, spoon or spatula.

Allergen Information

Contains tree nuts and 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.

Nutritional Information

Per serving: Calories 230, Total Fat 14 g, Carbohydrates 21 g, Protein 5 g.

Close-up shot shows the delicious textures of an acorn & oak snack mix perfect for snacking. Save to Pinterest
Close-up shot shows the delicious textures of an acorn & oak snack mix perfect for snacking. | orchardbowl.com

This snack mix makes a perfect, nutritious treat anytime you need a crunchy pick-me-up.

Recipe Questions & Answers

How do I prepare acorns for this mix?

Acorns must be leached to remove bitterness by shelling, chopping, and soaking in several water changes until no bitterness remains, then drying and roasting.

Can I substitute oak nuts if unavailable?

Yes, you may replace oak nuts with extra roasted acorns or hazelnuts for a similar texture and flavor.

What spices enhance the snack mix?

Smoked paprika, sea salt, ground cinnamon, and a hint of cayenne pepper create a warm, earthy flavor profile.

Can I add other ingredients for variety?

Try adding toasted coconut flakes or other dried fruits to complement the nutty and earthy notes.

What are good beverage pairings for this mix?

Light, fruity white wines or crisp ciders pair well, balancing the snack's earthy and nutty flavors.

Acorn Oak Snack Mix

A crunchy blend of roasted acorns, oak nuts, seeds, and spices offering an earthy, nutty flavor.

Prep Time
15 minutes
Time to Cook
20 minutes
Overall Time
35 minutes
Created by Sophie Alden

Recipe Type Warm Baked Comforts

Skill Level Medium

Cuisine Origin Fusion

Makes 6 Number of Servings

Dietary Details Meat-Free, No Dairy, No Gluten

What You'll Need

Nuts & Seeds

01 1 cup leached and roasted acorns
02 1/2 cup oak nuts (substitute with roasted acorns or hazelnuts if unavailable)
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 tbsp olive oil
02 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
03 1/2 tsp sea salt
04 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
05 1/8 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)

How To Make It

Step 01

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

Step 02

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

Step 03

Prepare seasoning mixture: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, smoked paprika, sea salt, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper.

Step 04

Coat mixture: Drizzle the seasoning mixture over the nuts and seeds, tossing thoroughly to ensure even coating.

Step 05

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

Step 06

Roast snack mix: Roast in the oven for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring halfway through, until fragrant and lightly golden.

Step 07

Cool the mix: Remove from the oven and allow the mixture to cool completely on the baking sheet.

Step 08

Add dried fruits and chocolate: Once cooled, fold in dried cranberries and dark chocolate chips if using.

Step 09

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

Equipment Needed

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

Allergy Warnings

Review all components for possible allergens and seek medical guidance if needed.
  • Contains tree nuts (acorns, oak nuts, almonds, hazelnuts if substituted)
  • Contains seeds (pumpkin, sunflower)
  • Chocolate chips may contain milk or soy traces—verify labels if sensitive

Nutrition Info (for each serving)

Details here are for your reference and aren't a substitute for professional advice.
  • Total Calories: 230
  • Total Fat: 14 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 21 grams
  • Proteins: 5 grams