Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow Recipe
Introduction
Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow is a delightful twist on the classic snack mix, combining creamy white chocolate and tangy cherry flavors with crunchy cereal. This no-bake treat is perfect for parties, snacking, or satisfying your sweet tooth in a fun and easy way.
Ingredients
- 4 cups Chex cereal
- 1 cup white chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 3 oz cherry-flavored gelatin
- 1 cup powdered sugar
Instructions
- Step 1: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the white chocolate chips and butter in 30-second intervals, stirring between each until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
- Step 2: Add the softened cream cheese to the melted mixture, stirring thoroughly until fully blended. Then, mix in the cherry-flavored gelatin until evenly incorporated.
- Step 3: Pour the creamy mixture over the Chex cereal in a large bowl. Gently fold the cereal and coating together until every piece is evenly covered.
- Step 4: Transfer the coated cereal into a resealable plastic bag along with the powdered sugar. Seal the bag tightly and shake vigorously until all pieces are evenly coated with powdered sugar.
- Step 5: Spread the finished mixture on a parchment-lined baking sheet and allow it to cool and set for about 30 minutes before serving.
Tips & Variations
- For added texture, sprinkle in chopped nuts or dried cherries before coating with powdered sugar.
- Use flavored white chocolate chips like strawberry or vanilla for a unique twist.
- Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened before mixing to avoid lumps in the coating.
Storage
Store the Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer freshness, keep it refrigerated for up to a week. If chilled, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving to regain its crunchy texture.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I substitute cream cheese with something else?
You can use a cream cheese alternative like Neufchâtel for a lower-fat option, but using regular cream cheese provides the best creamy texture and flavor balance.
Is this recipe safe for kids to make?
Yes! This no-bake recipe is simple and safe for kids, especially with adult supervision during the melting step. It’s a fun activity to enjoy together.
Print
Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
This Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow recipe is a delightful sweet snack combining crispy Chex cereal coated in a luscious mixture of melted white chocolate, creamy cream cheese, and cherry-flavored gelatin, then dusted with powdered sugar. Perfect for parties, dessert tables, or anytime you crave a fruity, creamy treat.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 4 cups Chex cereal
Coating Mixture
- 1 cup white chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 3 oz cherry-flavored gelatin
Finishing
- 1 cup powdered sugar
Instructions
- Melt Chocolate and Butter: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the white chocolate chips and unsalted butter in 30-second intervals, stirring between intervals until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
- Add Cream Cheese and Gelatin: Stir the softened cream cheese into the melted chocolate mixture until completely blended, then mix in the cherry-flavored gelatin until evenly incorporated.
- Coat Cereal: Pour the melted cherry cheesecake mixture over the 4 cups of Chex cereal in a large bowl. Gently stir to ensure every piece of cereal is evenly coated with the mixture.
- Dust with Powdered Sugar: Transfer the coated cereal into a large resealable plastic bag. Add the powdered sugar, seal the bag tightly, and shake vigorously until all cereal pieces are thoroughly covered with powdered sugar.
- Cool and Set: Spread the coated and powdered cereal on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Allow it to cool and set for about 30 minutes before serving to let the coating harden and prevent clumping.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easier mixing and smooth consistency.
- Shake the resealable bag well to evenly coat the cereal with powdered sugar and avoid clumps.
- Store puppy chow in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
- Feel free to substitute cherry-flavored gelatin with other fruit flavors to customize your puppy chow.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow, sweet snack, Chex mix dessert, no-bake dessert, powdered sugar coating, cherry gelatin, white chocolate puppy chow
