Vampire Bite Trail Mix is my go-to spooky snack for Halloween season or any time I want something sweet, salty, and a little bit creepy. This easy, no-bake mix is packed with bold red candies, dark chocolate, crunchy nuts, and dried fruits that look like they came straight from a vampire’s snack stash. It’s perfect for parties, movie nights, or handing out in treat bags—and it comes together in just minutes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love this trail mix because it’s festive without being fussy. It’s a great balance of flavors and textures—crunchy, chewy, sweet, and just a hint salty. The red and black color theme gives it that dramatic “vampire bite” look, and I can customize it with whatever I have on hand. It’s also easy to scale up for a crowd or portion into individual snack bags for a Halloween party or school treat.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Dried cranberries or cherries
- Yogurt-covered raisins or pretzels
- Red candy-coated chocolates (like red M&Ms)
- Chocolate chips or dark chocolate chunks
- Pretzel sticks or mini pretzels
- Roasted almonds or peanuts
- Red licorice bites or twisted ropes (cut into small pieces)
- Optional: freeze-dried strawberries or raspberries for extra crunch
- Optional: black candy pieces or Halloween sprinkles for decoration
Directions
- I gather all my ingredients and make sure any larger items (like licorice ropes or large dried fruit) are chopped into bite-sized pieces.
- In a large mixing bowl, I combine the dried cranberries, yogurt raisins, red candies, chocolate chips, pretzels, and nuts.
- I add in the licorice bites and any optional ingredients like freeze-dried fruit or festive sprinkles.
- I gently toss everything together until evenly mixed.
- I serve it right away or store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 6–8 snack-sized servings.
Prep time: 5 minutes
Total time: 5 minutes
Variations
- I use dried blueberries or raisins for a darker, more dramatic look.
- For a nut-free version, I skip the almonds and use sunflower seeds or extra pretzels.
- I’ve added mini marshmallows or popcorn for a fluffier texture.
- Candy eyeballs or gummy fangs make it even more fun for kids.
- I sometimes drizzle melted white chocolate over the mix and let it set for a sweet coating.
storage/reheating
I store this trail mix in an airtight container or zip-top bag at room temperature for up to 7 days. I don’t refrigerate it, as that can make some of the candy sticky. No reheating needed—just grab and go!
FAQs
Can I make this mix in advance?
Yes, I usually make it a few days before a party. Just keep it sealed well and away from heat or moisture.
Is this mix safe for kids with allergies?
I always double-check the ingredient labels, especially for nuts and candy. It’s easy to customize with allergy-friendly options like nut-free seeds or dairy-free chocolate.
How can I package this for party favors?
I scoop the mix into clear cellophane bags or mini jars and tie them with red or black ribbon for a vampire-themed look.
Can I add more protein to this trail mix?
Yes, I’ve tossed in roasted chickpeas or protein-packed granola clusters to make it more filling.
What if I don’t have red candies?
I substitute with any red or dark-colored snacks—like cherry gummies, dried raspberries, or even beet chips for a healthy twist.
Conclusion
Vampire Bite Trail Mix is a fun, flavorful snack that brings Halloween vibes without a lot of effort. I love how it combines a creepy-cute look with a delicious blend of textures and flavors. Whether I’m serving it at a party, handing it out in treat bags, or just snacking on the couch, this mix always adds a bite of spooky delight to the day.
PrintVampire Bite Trail Mix
Vampire Bite Trail Mix is a spooky-sweet Halloween snack featuring red and black candies, chocolate, dried fruits, and crunchy nuts. It’s festive, customizable, and perfect for parties, movie nights, or treat bags.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 6 to 8 servings
- Category: Snack
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries or cherries
- 1/2 cup yogurt-covered raisins or pretzels
- 1/2 cup red candy-coated chocolates (like red M&Ms)
- 1/3 cup chocolate chips or dark chocolate chunks
- 1 cup pretzel sticks or mini pretzels
- 1/2 cup roasted almonds or peanuts
- 1/3 cup red licorice bites or chopped licorice ropes
- Optional: 1/4 cup freeze-dried strawberries or raspberries
- Optional: 2 tbsp black candy pieces or Halloween sprinkles
Instructions
- Chop any large ingredients (like licorice ropes or large dried fruit) into bite-sized pieces.
- In a large bowl, combine dried cranberries, yogurt raisins, red candies, chocolate chips, pretzels, and nuts.
- Add licorice bites and any optional ingredients like freeze-dried fruit or sprinkles.
- Gently toss everything until evenly mixed.
- Serve immediately or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
Notes
- Substitute dried blueberries or raisins for a darker theme.
- Use sunflower seeds or extra pretzels for a nut-free version.
- Add mini marshmallows, popcorn, or candy eyeballs for extra fun.
- Drizzle with melted white chocolate for a sweet coating.
- Great for packaging as party favors in jars or bags tied with ribbon.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 17g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 2mg
