| |

Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for an irresistible treat that’s as fun to make as it is to munch on, the Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow Recipe is your new best friend. Imagine crunchy rice cereal coated in a luscious white chocolate and cream cheese blend, dusted with powdered sugar, freeze-dried cherries, and cheesecake pudding powder—a snack that perfectly balances sweet, tangy, and creamy flavors in every bite. It’s a no-bake wonder that’s simple to whip up and guaranteed to sparkle at any gathering or as a cozy snack to brighten your day.

Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is key to nailing the Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow Recipe. Each item here plays a special role, from adding texture and creaminess to delivering that signature cherry cheesecake flavor burst.

  • 6 cups rice square cereal (like Chex): Provides the perfect crunchy base with a light, airy texture that soaks up the coating beautifully.
  • 1½ cups white chocolate chips: Melts into a silky coating that envelops each cereal piece, creating that luscious, creamy cheesecake feel.
  • ½ cup powdered freeze-dried cherries: Adds vibrant color and a natural tart cherry zing to brighten every bite.
  • 1 cup powdered sugar: Sweetens and helps dry-coat the cereal for that classic puppy chow finish.
  • 1 (3.4 oz) package instant cheesecake pudding mix (dry): Infuses that unmistakable cheesecake flavor powering the recipe’s charm.
  • 2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened: Brings a rich, tangy creaminess to the melted chocolate coating.
  • 1 tablespoon milk: Loosens the mixture just enough to drizzle elegantly over the cereal.
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors while adding a warm, fragrant note that ties the whole thing together.

How to Make Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Cereal Base

Start by placing those crunchy rice square cereals in a large mixing bowl. This will be the canvas that gets transformed into a delicious canvas of cherry cheesecake goodness.

Step 2: Melt and Mix the White Chocolate Coating

Pop the white chocolate chips into a microwave-safe bowl and melt them in 30-second bursts, stirring in between until the chocolate is creamy smooth. Next, stir in the softened cream cheese, milk, and vanilla extract until you get a velvety, luscious mixture that’s ready to coat every piece of cereal.

Step 3: Coat the Cereal

Pour your silky white chocolate blend over the cereal and gently fold it in, making sure every square gets a generous, even coating without breaking the pieces.

Step 4: Add the Cherry Cheesecake Powder Mix

In a large zip-top bag, combine the powdered sugar, freeze-dried cherry powder, and instant cheesecake pudding mix. Add your coated cereal to the bag, seal it tightly, and give it a good shake. This step is where the magic happens as each piece gets beautifully coated with that tangy, sweet dusting.

Step 5: Let It Cool and Set

Spread the puppy chow onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and let it cool and dry for about 15 to 20 minutes. This step ensures that the coating sets perfectly and avoids clumping, making it the ideal texture for snacking.

How to Serve Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow Recipe

Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

For a finishing touch, sprinkle some extra freeze-dried cherries or a light dusting of powdered sugar on top just before serving. It elevates the visual appeal and adds a little punch of fresh cherry flavor with every bite.

Side Dishes

This puppy chow pairs wonderfully with a simple glass of cold milk or a cup of steaming hot coffee. The snack’s rich, creamy nature pairs beautifully against refreshing or robust beverages that balance the sweetness.

Creative Ways to Present

Package this Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow Recipe in cute mason jars or decorative cellophane bags tied with a ribbon to make charming gifts. Alternatively, serve it in a large bowl at your next party surrounded by small individual cups for easy grab-and-go snacking.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Simply store any leftover puppy chow in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. This keeps it fresh and crunchy, ready whenever the snack cravings hit again.

Freezing

If you’d like to keep it longer, freeze the puppy chow in a sealed freezer bag for up to a month. Just thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

Reheating

This no-bake treat doesn’t require reheating, but if the coating feels a bit stiff after storage, a few minutes at room temperature will bring back its perfect chew and crunch.

FAQs

Can I substitute the white chocolate chips with regular chocolate?

While white chocolate is essential for that classic cheesecake flavor and color, you could experiment with milk or semi-sweet chocolate for a different taste, though it won’t have the same tangy creaminess.

Is it necessary to use freeze-dried cherries?

Freeze-dried cherries provide concentrated flavor and a delightful crunch without moisture, which is important for maintaining the snack’s texture. Fresh cherries or cherry jam would add unwanted moisture and can make the puppy chow soggy.

Can I make this recipe vegan or dairy-free?

To make a dairy-free version, choose vegan white chocolate chips and substitute the cream cheese with a plant-based alternative. Just keep in mind that the texture and taste may vary slightly.

What is the best way to mix and coat the puppy chow?

Using a large zip-top bag to shake the cereal with the powdered sugar and pudding mix is the easiest way to get an even coating without much mess.

How long does it take to make the Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow Recipe?

This recipe is quick and delightful—mostly hands-on time is about 15 minutes with no cooking involved, making it great for last-minute snacks or parties.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so wonderfully comforting and joyful about the Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow Recipe. It’s got that perfect mix of creamy, crunchy, and tangy flavors that will have you coming back for more. Whether you’re whipping it up for yourself, friends, or as a delightful gift, this recipe is sure to become a beloved favorite. So, grab your ingredients, dive in, and enjoy every heavenly bite!

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.2 from 85 reviews

  • Author: Emma
  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow is a delightful no-bake snack mix featuring rice cereal coated in a creamy white chocolate and cream cheese blend, infused with the tangy flavor of freeze-dried cherries and cheesecake pudding mix. This easy-to-make treat combines sweet, tart, and creamy flavors ideal for snacking or dessert.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 6 cups rice square cereal (such as Chex)
  • 1½ cups white chocolate chips
  • ½ cup powdered freeze-dried cherries
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 (3.4 oz) package instant cheesecake pudding mix (dry)
  • 2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened
  • 1 tablespoon milk
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Prepare the cereal: Place 6 cups of rice square cereal into a large mixing bowl and set aside, preparing the base for the coating.
  2. Melt the white chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt 1½ cups of white chocolate chips in 30-second increments, stirring after each interval until the mixture is smooth and fully melted.
  3. Mix the creamy coating: Stir in 2 tablespoons softened cream cheese, 1 tablespoon milk, and ½ teaspoon vanilla extract into the melted white chocolate until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
  4. Coat the cereal: Pour the melted white chocolate mixture over the cereal in the bowl and gently fold using a spatula to evenly coat all the cereal pieces without breaking them.
  5. Combine dry powders: In a large zip-top bag, combine 1 cup powdered sugar, ½ cup powdered freeze-dried cherries, and 1 package (3.4 oz) instant cheesecake pudding mix.
  6. Coat the cereal in powder mix: Add the coated cereal into the zip-top bag containing the dry powder mixture, seal the bag securely, and shake vigorously until each piece is thoroughly coated.
  7. Cool and dry: Spread the coated puppy chow out on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, allowing it to cool and dry for about 15 to 20 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • Store the puppy chow in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain freshness.
  • For variation, substitute freeze-dried cherries with freeze-dried strawberries to alter the flavor profile.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Snack, Dessert
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: American

Similar Posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star