It’s that time of year, dear readers: when visitors drop in unexpectedly; when we find ourselves invited to four holiday parties, all on the same day; when neighbors exchange tokens of gratitude; when season’s greetings call to be exemplified in the form of a small gift.  It’s that time of year when having a large batch of Party Snack Mix on hand will save you over and over again.

This wonderful mix is full of flavor, and fun to make.  It’s a great snack to have on hand when guests drop by.  A cheerfully decorated bag of this party treat makes a great hostess gift for all your holiday parties.  Plus, it’s a great token gift for neighbors and friends.

I try to come up with a handy-dandy treat every year to serve as this life-saver during the holidays.  Last year, I made Marvelous marbled Peppermint Bark for my neighbors and co-workers.  But this year, I’m all over the Party Snack Mix.  I  basically worked with the traditional Chex Party Mix but switched it up with my favorite additions (um, hello, you know I had to add Cheez-Its!!!) and my own custom spice blend.  I hope you enjoy this holiday treat!

Party Snack Mix

Inspired by the Original Chex Party Mix

2 cups Corn Chex cereal
2 cups Rice Chex cereal
2 cups Wheat Chex cereal
2 cups plain Cheerios
1 cup pecan halves
1 cup walnut halves
2 cups bite-sized pretzels
2 cups Cheez-Its
1 cup butter
1/2 cup canola or vegetable oil
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon celery salt
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon poultry seasoning
1/4 teaspoon paprika
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon salt

In a very large container, combine the Chex cereals, the Cheerios, the pecans, the walnuts, the pretzels,and the Cheez-Its.

Next, melt the butter in a medium saucepan. Add the oil, the Worcestershire, celery salt, garlic powder, onion powder, poultry seasoning, paprika, pepper, and salt, stirring until everything is incorporated.

Pour the butter mixture over the cereal mixture, tossing lightly until all pieces are lightly coated.

For Microwave: Microwave the mixture (in batches if necessary) for 6-7 minutes, stopping every two minutes to stir the mixture. Spread evenly on paper towels until the mixture is completely cooled. Store in an air-tight container for up to 2 weeks.

For Oven: Preheat the oven to 250 degrees.  Spread the mixture evenly on a large baking sheet.  Bake for 60 minutes, stirring the mixture every 15 minutes.  Spread evenly on paper towels until the mixture is completely cooled. Store in an air-tight container for up to 2 weeks.