Make Banana Split Trail Mix for Summer Travel

Capture the flavor of this delicious ice cream treat in a handy, portable snack. Banana Split Trail Mix is super easy to whip up and easy to pack for on-the-go activities.

My children love the sweet flavors of fruit in this snack and don't realize they are eating a treat that's far healthier than a real banana split.

It's also a great way to sneak more fruit into your child's diet. According to the USDA Food Pyramid (http://www.mypyramid.gov) a one-half cup of dried fruit is the equivalent of a full cup of fresh fruit. The daily recommendation for fruit for children under 13 is one to one-and-one-half cups of fruit.

Ingredients:

2 cups of dried Banana Chips

½ cup of dried Coconut Flakes

½ cup of dried Cherries (may substitute cherry-flavored dried Cranberries)

½ cup of dried Pineapple Pieces

½ cup of Almonds (substitute Cocoa Almonds for extra flavor!)

½ cup of Dark Chocolate Chips

Directions:

In a large bowl, using a large spoon, thoroughly mix all ingredients.

Package in individual snack bags or containers, or package the entire mix in an airtight container.

Serve and enjoy!

Additional Suggestions:

- Add a ½ cup of butterscotch flavored chips to simulate caramel on your sundae.

- Add a ½ cup of white chocolate chips to add more "ice cream" appeal.

- Substitute the almonds with walnuts, peanuts, pecans, or other nuts for a custom taste.

- Prior to serving, add a ½ cup of mini marshmallows to the mix (kids love this!)