Planning a Tennessee road trip? Whether you're driving through the Great Smoky Mountains, exploring Nashville’s music scene, or taking in the beauty of Chattanooga, having the right snacks can make all the difference.
A homemade roasted nut mix is the perfect travel snack—it’s nutritious, portable, and packed with flavor. Plus, it’s easy to make and much healthier than gas station snacks!
Why This Roasted Nut Mix is the Best Tennessee Road Trip Snack
✔ Long-Lasting & Travel-Friendly – Stays fresh for weeks in an airtight container.
✔ Packed with Protein & Healthy Fats – Keeps you full and energized on the road.
✔ Sweet & Savory Flavor – A balance of honey, cinnamon, and a touch of spice.
✔ Easy to Make in Batches – Perfect for meal prepping before your trip!
Ingredients for Tennessee-Style Roasted Nut Mix
You’ll need:
🟢 4 cups mixed nuts (almonds, pecans, cashews, walnuts)
🟢 3 tbsp butter, melted
🟢 ¼ cup honey (or maple syrup for a Southern twist)
🟢 1 tsp cinnamon
🟢 ½ tsp smoked paprika (adds a subtle heat)
🟢 ½ tsp salt
🟢 ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for spice lovers)
🟢 ½ cup dried cranberries (adds a sweet, chewy texture)
How to Make Roasted Nut Mix for Your Tennessee Road Trip
Step 1: Preheat & Prep
Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Step 2: Mix the Nuts & Seasoning
In a large bowl, toss the mixed nuts with melted butter, honey, cinnamon, smoked paprika, salt, and cayenne pepper. Stir until everything is evenly coated.
Step 3: Roast to Perfection
Spread the nuts evenly on the baking sheet and roast for 15-20 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even toasting.
Step 4: Add Dried Cranberries
Once the nuts are golden brown and fragrant, remove them from the oven and mix in the dried cranberries while they are still warm.
Step 5: Cool & Store
Let the nuts cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container or resealable bags for your road trip.
Best Ways to Pack Your Road Trip Snack
✔ Use Small Ziplock Bags – Pre-portion for easy snacking.
✔ Store in an Airtight Container – Keeps it crunchy and fresh.
✔ Keep in a Cooler Bag – If traveling in hot weather, store in a cool spot.
More Tennessee Road Trip Snack Ideas
🔥 Homemade Jerky – Protein-packed and long-lasting.
🔥 Moon Pies – A Chattanooga classic!
🔥 Country Ham Biscuits – A true Southern staple.
🔥 Pimento Cheese & Crackers – Creamy, tangy, and delicious.
Conclusion
A Tennessee road trip isn’t complete without delicious, homemade snacks! This roasted nut mix is the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and crunchy, making it a must-have for long drives through the Volunteer State.
Pack a batch, hit the road, and enjoy every mile with the best homemade travel snack!
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