Gluten-Free Kentucky Bourbon Chex Mix

I used to love Chex Mix as a fun snack (in moderation) but ever since I discovered I couldn't eat gluten anymore, I haven't been able to eat it (unless I make it myself). I like homemade Chex Mix because I can add my own flavors and ingredients to personalize it just for me. Last week for Steeplechase, one of the dishes I made was my Champions Corner Chex Mix. Everyone loved it so I decided to share with the world in case you can't eat the pre-bagged Chex Mix either! For the tailgate, I added in the yogurt covered raisins and Boston Baked Beans candy for the Patriotic Party effect. This recipe leaves those two ingredients out to keep it dairy-free. Feel free to play around with different amounts of ingredients to fit your taste. I added in the bourbon since we were going to Steeplechase and it seemed like a very Kentucky Derby like thing to do. I also love making a sweet and spicy flavored mix but I thought this flavor was more unique and fun to post! Maybe I will add in another one later :) 

Servings: 50 (1/4 cup servings)
Prep/Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Ingredients:

• 5 cups Honey Nut Cheerios
• 5 cups gluten-free pretzel sticks, broken in half
• 5 cups Rice Chex Cereal
• 4 oz Cauliflower Cheese Crackers
• 1/2 cup vegan butter - melted (or olive oil)
• 1/3 cup Kentucky Bourbon (I used Four Roses)
• 2 Tbsp coconut aminos (or gluten-free soy sauce)
• 2 Tbsp honey
• 2 tsp garlic powder
• 2 tsp celery seed
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1 tsp cayenne
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
• ​dash of salt and pepper

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 275 F and prepare a few sheet pans (with edges) by lining them with parchment paper. If you are going to do a few sheets at once, turn your oven to the convection setting at 225-250.
2. Combine the first 4 ingredients in a large bowl.
3. In a small bowl, combine the butter, Bourbon, coconut aminos, honey and the spices. It might look a little funny when it all combines but it is fine!
4. Add the butter mixture to the cereal mixture and toss to coat all pieces.
5. Spread out on the pans and bake for 1 hour 15 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes. Cool completely and store in airtight containers.
6. *If you wanted to add in the yogurt covered raisins and Boston Baked Beans candy or any other sweets, you would do it once it comes out of the oven and is cooling.