Disclosure: Van’s Foods provided and delivered the complimentary product to facilitate this post. This post was not reviewed by a 3rd party. All opinions are mine and may not reflect those of the company. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.” All photos are mine and subject to copyright.

It’s back to school time, which means us, moms, have set some resolutions for the family. If you are like me, we are focusing on our health. That’s why I am excited to share with you a delicious, better-for you snack that the whole family will enjoy! Fortunately, food companies like Van’s Foods NEVER use artificial flavors or artificial sweeteners. Ever. They also gluten-free breakfast options, snack bars and crackers. My kids love packing snack bars in their backpacks, BUT I decided that I want to “spice” up their afternoon snack with this Sweet & Savory Nutty trail mix as a treat. Make this recipe on the weekend, and put them in reusable snack packs, so they can grab it in the morning.

Van’s Sweet & Savory Cranberry Mix
The Perfect Portable Snack – sweet, salty, crunchy and chewy
Spiced Pecan Ingredients
1 lb pecans
1/3 C brown sugar
2 tsp cinnamon
1 tsp freshly grounded nutmeg
2 Tbsp honey
2 Tbsp pure maple sugar
2 Tbsp butter
1 tsp sea salt

Add all ingredients to a slow cooker. Toss gently to combine. Cook LOW for 1 1/2 hours, stir occasionally. When the sugar and butter have melted and the nuts are toasted, pour out onto a foil lined baking pan and let cool. Pecans will keep for two weeks in an airtight container.

Trail Mix Ingredients
Box of Van’s Cranberry Almond Snack Bars, cut into small pieces
2 C Van’s Cinnamon Heaven Cereal
2 C Spiced Pecans (recipe below)
1 C pitted dates
1 C dried cranberries
1 C salted almonds

Once the pecans are done, combine all the trail mix ingredients in a large bowl. Store mix in an airtight container.