Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow Recipe
Introduction
Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow is a delightful and addictive snack that combines the flavors of creamy cheesecake, sweet cherries, and crisp cereal. Perfect for parties, movie nights, or anytime you crave a sweet treat, this recipe is simple to make and sure to impress.
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
- Step 1: Place the Chex cereal in a large bowl and set aside.
- Step 2: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine white chocolate chips and butter. Microwave for 30 seconds, then stir and continue microwaving in 15-second intervals, stirring each time, until the mixture is smooth.
- Step 3: Stir the cherry gelatin mix into the melted chocolate and butter until fully combined.
- Step 4: Pour the cherry-chocolate mixture over the cereal and gently fold to coat the cereal evenly.
- Step 5: In a large zip-top bag, mix the powdered sugar and instant cheesecake pudding mix together. Add the coated cereal to the bag, seal it tightly, and shake until each piece is well coated with the sugar mixture.
- Step 6: Spread the coated cereal on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and allow it to cool completely.
- Step 7: Once cooled, stir in the chopped dried cherries and serve.
Tips & Variations
- For an extra festive look, add mini white chocolate chips or red sprinkles along with the dried cherries.
- Use almond or coconut-flavored gelatin for a unique twist on the cherry flavor.
- Make it gluten-free by choosing gluten-free Chex cereal varieties.
Storage
Store Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you prefer it chilled, keep it in the refrigerator, but allow it to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture. Avoid storing in a humid environment to keep it crisp.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use other types of gelatin for this recipe?
Yes, you can experiment with different gelatin flavors like strawberry or raspberry to customize the taste, but cherry gives the best classic flavor for this recipe.
Is it necessary to microwave the chocolate and butter or can I melt them on the stove?
You can melt the white chocolate chips and butter in a double boiler on the stove if you prefer. Just make sure to stir constantly to prevent burning and achieve a smooth mixture.
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Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow is a sweet, crunchy snack mix featuring Chex cereal coated in a luscious white chocolate and cherry gelatin mixture, dusted with cheesecake-flavored powdered sugar, and studded with dried cherries. Perfect for parties, movie nights, or anytime a delightful treat is desired.
Ingredients
Main 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
- Prepare the Cereal: Place 9 cups of Chex cereal into a large mixing bowl and set aside to be coated later.
- Melt Chocolate and Butter: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine 1 cup of white chocolate chips with 1/4 cup unsalted butter. Microwave for 30 seconds, stir, then continue microwaving in 15-second increments, stirring frequently, until the mixture is smooth and fully melted.
- 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, creating a smooth cherry-white chocolate glaze.
- Coat the Cereal: Pour the cherry-chocolate mixture evenly over the reserved Chex cereal. Gently fold and stir until every piece is thoroughly coated with the cherry-chocolate glaze.
- Dust with Sugar Mixture: In a large zip-top bag, combine 1/2 cup powdered sugar and 1 package (3.5 oz) instant cheesecake pudding mix. Add the coated cereal pieces to the bag, seal tightly, and shake vigorously until all pieces are well coated with the powdered sugar and cheesecake pudding blend.
- Cool and Set: Spread the coated cereal out evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Allow it to cool completely so the coating can set properly.
- Add Cherries and Serve: Once cooled and set, transfer the coated cereal back into a large bowl and gently fold in 1 cup of chopped dried cherries. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container for later enjoyment.
Notes
- For best results, ensure the white chocolate and butter are fully melted and well combined before adding the gelatin powder to avoid clumps.
- You can substitute dried cherries with other dried berries like cranberries for a different flavor twist.
- Store puppy chow in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week to maintain freshness and crunch.
- This recipe is ideal for sharing at parties and gatherings or for a fun homemade gift in a decorative jar.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow, Puppy Chow, Chex Mix, Sweet Snack, Party Snack, White Chocolate Snack
