My friend and colleague Dianne Towalski, multimedia reporter and graphic designer for The Visitor, recently mentioned a snack mix her family is fond of. Upon hearing that the concoction had not one — but two — varieties of dried cranberries in it, I knew it would be perfect for “The Cranberry Collection” I’m sharing this holiday season with readers of “From the Heart.”
She discovered milk chocolate covered dried cranberries not too long ago and they are a delightful addition to the combination. Nuts, dried cranberries, chocolate — what’s not to like? There’s no limit to how the ingredients in this simple recipe can be substituted but here’s the lineup we chose when we created a batch for the office staff (and other lucky recipients).
Jingle Bell Cranberry Mix
Dianne Towalski
1 (16 oz.) jar honey roasted peanuts
2 (15.25 oz.) canisters mixed nuts
1 (6 oz.) pkg. dried cranberries
2 (5 oz.) pkgs. milk chocolate covered sweetened dried cranberries
1 (11.40 oz.) pkg. red and green milk chocolate M&M’s
1 (11.40 oz.) pkg. red and green dark chocolate M&M’s
Mix all ingredients in a large bowl. Enjoy!
A note from Dianne: The Christmas colored M&M’s are perfect for this time of year. By using other seasonal colors of M&M’s, the snack mix can be easily adapted for any holiday or event.
A note from Carol: It makes a big batch so there’s plenty to share. And, it’s pretty in a jar. What a great gift for a party hostess or neighbor this time of year!