Tropical Trail Mix with Dried Pineapple

Tropical Trail Mix with Dried Pineapple is a bright, refreshing, and naturally sweet snack that instantly transports you to a sunny beach with every bite. Bursting with tropical flavors like chewy dried pineapple, coconut, and crunchy nuts, this trail mix is the perfect balance of sweet, salty, and satisfying. It’s a wholesome alternative to sugary snacks and store-bought mixes, offering real ingredients and customizable flavors.

This recipe is ideal for busy days, travel, school lunches, hikes, or whenever you need a quick energy boost. The combination of dried fruit, nuts, and optional chocolate delivers texture, flavor, and nutrition—without complicated preparation. It’s colorful, cheerful, and guaranteed to lift your mood.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s simple, joyful, and endlessly customizable. The dried pineapple adds a naturally tangy sweetness that pairs beautifully with crunchy nuts and creamy coconut. It requires no cooking, no fancy equipment, and comes together in minutes—yet tastes like a gourmet snack mix. It’s also perfect for both kids and adults.

Why This Is a Must-Try Dish

• Naturally sweet and satisfying
• No cooking required
• Great for meal prep and travel
• Packed with texture and tropical flavor
• Healthier than packaged snack mixes

Once you try this tropical blend, it becomes a go-to snack you’ll want to keep stocked at all times.

Recipe Overview

• Course: Snack
• Cuisine: American / Tropical-Inspired
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: None
• Total Time: 10 minutes
• Servings: 8 servings
• Calories: Approx. 230 calories per serving

Ingredients

• 1 cup dried pineapple chunks (unsweetened preferred)
• 1 cup roasted cashews
• ½ cup almonds
• ½ cup macadamia nuts or peanuts
• ½ cup dried mango slices, chopped
• ½ cup shredded coconut (unsweetened or lightly sweetened)
• ⅓ cup white or dark chocolate chips (optional)
• ¼ teaspoon sea salt (optional, for balance)

Cooking Directions

1. Measure all ingredients
2. Combine in a large bowl
3. Mix until evenly distributed
4. Store or serve immediately

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Prepare Ingredients

Chop dried pineapple and mango into bite-sized pieces if needed. Make sure nuts are roasted and fully cooled.

Step 2: Combine

Add dried pineapple, nuts, dried mango, coconut, and chocolate chips (if using) into a large mixing bowl.

Step 3: Mix

Gently toss everything together until evenly distributed. Sprinkle sea salt if desired for a sweet-salty contrast.

Step 4: Store or Serve

Transfer to airtight containers or serve immediately in bowls.

How to Serve

• Serve as a grab-and-go snack
• Pack in lunchboxes or picnic baskets
• Bring along for hiking, travel, or road trips
• Sprinkle over yogurt or smoothie bowls
• Serve in decorative jars for parties

Recipe Tips

• Use unsweetened dried fruit to control sugar
• Chop larger fruit pieces for even distribution
• Add chocolate only after ingredients are completely dry
• Balance sweetness with a pinch of salt
• Mix gently to avoid crushing nuts

Variations

Extra Tropical Version

Add dried papaya, banana chips, or coconut chips.

Protein-Boosted Mix

Add roasted chickpeas or soy nuts for extra protein.

Nut-Free Version

Replace nuts with pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, and coconut chips.

Sweet & Spicy Twist

Add a pinch of chili powder or cayenne for heat.

Chocolate Lover’s Mix

Use white chocolate chunks or yogurt-covered raisins.

Freezing and Storage

Storage

• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 2–3 weeks

Freezing

• Freeze in sealed freezer bags for up to 3 months
• Thaw at room temperature before serving

Special Equipment Needed

• Large mixing bowl
• Measuring cups
• Knife and cutting board
• Airtight containers or storage bags

Conclusion

Tropical Trail Mix with Dried Pineapple is a cheerful, flavorful snack that combines vibrant tropical ingredients with satisfying crunch and chew. Easy to make, endlessly customizable, and perfect for any occasion, this no-cook recipe is a healthy alternative to processed snacks. Whether you’re fueling a busy day or craving a taste of the tropics, this trail mix delivers sunshine in every bite.