Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow Recipe

Introduction

Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow is a sweet, crunchy snack that combines the tangy flavor of cherries with creamy white chocolate and cheesecake pudding. This easy treat is perfect for parties, movie nights, or anytime you crave something deliciously addictive.

Ingredients

• 9 cups Chex cereal (rice or corn variety)
• 1 cup white chocolate chips
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup cherry gelatin mix (like Jell-O)
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 package (3.5 oz) instant cheesecake pudding mix
• 1 cup dried cherries, chopped

Instructions

1. Step 1: Place the Chex cereal in a large bowl and set aside.
2. Step 2: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the white chocolate chips and unsalted butter. Microwave for 30 seconds, stir, then continue microwaving in 15-second intervals, stirring until the mixture is smooth and melted.
3. Step 3: Stir the cherry gelatin mix into the melted white chocolate and butter until fully combined.
4. Step 4: Pour the cherry-chocolate mixture over the Chex cereal. Gently fold the cereal until it is evenly coated.
5. Step 5: In a large zip-top bag, combine the powdered sugar and instant cheesecake pudding mix. Add the coated cereal to the bag, seal it, and shake until every piece is well coated with the sugar mixture.
6. Step 6: Spread the coated cereal onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to cool and set.
7. Step 7: Once the mixture has cooled, stir in the chopped dried cherries.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, toast the Chex cereal lightly before coating to add a nutty note.
• Substitute dried cranberries or blueberries if you prefer a different fruit variation.
• Use dark or milk chocolate chips instead of white chocolate for a richer taste.

Storage

Store Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you prefer it crispier, keep it in the refrigerator. Reheat briefly in the microwave if it loses its crispness, but avoid overheating to prevent melting the coating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cereal?

Yes, any rice or corn-based Chex cereal works best as it holds the coating well. Avoid cereals that are too delicate or coated themselves.

Is it necessary to use cherry gelatin mix?

The cherry gelatin mix adds a distinctive fruity flavor and helps the coating set, but you can experiment with other gelatin flavors if desired.

Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 80 reviews

Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow is a delightful sweet snack mix combining crispy Chex cereal coated with a luscious cherry-flavored white chocolate and butter mixture, dusted with cheesecake pudding and powdered sugar, then mixed with dried cherries for a burst of fruitiness. This easy no-bake treat is perfect for parties, movie nights, or any occasion that calls for a fun and flavorful munchie.

• Author: Ella
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
• Category: Snack
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

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Dry Ingredients

• 9 cups Chex cereal (rice or corn variety)
• 1/2 cup cherry gelatin mix (like Jell-O)
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 package (3.5 oz) instant cheesecake pudding mix
• 1 cup dried cherries, chopped

Wet Ingredients

• 1 cup white chocolate chips
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter

Instructions

1. Prepare the Cereal: Place 9 cups of Chex cereal in a large bowl and set aside to prepare for coating.
2. Melt Chocolate and Butter: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine 1 cup white chocolate chips and 1/4 cup unsalted butter. Microwave for 30 seconds, then stir. Continue microwaving in 15-second increments, stirring each time, until the mixture is smooth and fully melted.
3. Mix in Gelatin: Add 1/2 cup cherry gelatin mix to the melted white chocolate and butter mixture. Stir thoroughly until the gelatin is completely incorporated and the mixture is smooth and evenly colored.
4. Coat the Cereal: Pour the cherry-chocolate mixture over the prepared cereal. Gently fold the cereal using a spatula or spoon to coat every piece evenly without crushing the cereal.
5. Dust with Sugar Mixture: In a large resealable plastic bag, combine 1/2 cup powdered sugar and 1 package instant cheesecake pudding mix. Add the coated cereal into the bag, seal it tightly, and shake vigorously to evenly coat each piece of cereal with the sugar and pudding powder mixture.
6. Cool and Set: Spread the coated cereal onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Allow it to cool completely so the coating sets, making the puppy chow less sticky and easier to handle.
7. Add Cherries and Serve: Once the mixture is cooled, gently fold in 1 cup chopped dried cherries to distribute fruitiness evenly. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container to enjoy later.

Notes

• For best results, use white chocolate chips specifically formulated for melting, as some candy coatings melt more smoothly.
• Dried cherries can be substituted with dried cranberries or mixed berries for a different flavor twist.
• Ensure the cereal is completely cooled and dry before coating to avoid sogginess.
• This recipe can be doubled or halved easily depending on the serving size needed.
• Store the puppy chow in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

Keywords: Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow, puppy chow, Chex cereal snack, cherry dessert snack, white chocolate snack mix, easy no bake dessert, party snacks, sweet cereal mix