Best Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow Recipe

Introduction

This Best Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow is a delightful snack mix bursting with creamy cheesecake and bright cherry flavors. It’s sweet, crunchy, and perfect for sharing at parties or enjoying as a treat anytime.

Ingredients

• 8 cups rice square cereal (like Chex)
• 1 pound container vanilla bark
• 3.4 ounce cheesecake pudding mix
• 3 ounce cherry gelatin mix
• 1 cup plus 3 tablespoons powdered sugar
• Red and pink sprinkles (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Line a large baking sheet with foil and set aside.
2. Step 2: In a large zip-top bag, combine cheesecake pudding mix, cherry gelatin mix, powdered sugar, and sprinkles if using. Seal and shake to mix well.
3. Step 3: Measure cereal into a large bowl and set aside.
4. Step 4: Microwave the vanilla bark in its tray for 1 minute, stir, then heat for another minute or until fully melted and smooth.
5. Step 5: Pour the melted vanilla bark over the cereal and stir gently until all pieces are completely coated.
6. Step 6: Transfer the coated cereal into the prepared zip-top bag with the powdered sugar mixture. Seal the bag and shake well until every piece is coated.
7. Step 7: Spread the coated cereal evenly onto the foil-lined baking sheet and allow it to set before storing.
8. Step 8: Store the puppy chow in a covered container for up to 2 weeks.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, try adding a teaspoon of almond extract to the melted bark before coating the cereal.
• Swap vanilla bark with white chocolate chips if preferred, melting them gently to avoid scorching.
• Add a handful of dried cherries or mini chocolate chips for extra texture and bursts of flavor.

Storage

Store the cherry cheesecake puppy chow in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. If it softens, spread it out on a baking sheet and let it air dry to regain some crunch. No need to reheat before serving.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cereal?

Yes, any square-shaped rice cereal like Rice Chex works best because it holds the coating well and provides the right crunch.

Is it necessary to use cheesecake pudding mix?

The cheesecake pudding mix is key to achieving the signature creamy flavor of this snack, but you can experiment with vanilla pudding mix for a milder taste.

Best Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 66 reviews

This Best Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow is a delightful and addictive snack mix featuring crispy rice cereal coated in a creamy vanilla bark and a sweet cherry cheesecake powder blend. Finished with a dusting of powdered sugar and colorful sprinkles, this fun and festive treat is perfect for gatherings or as a simple indulgence any time of the year.

• Author: Maya
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 3 minutes
• Total Time: 13 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 12 cups of puppy chow 1x
• Category: Snack
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Snack Mix

• 8 cups rice square cereal (like Chex)
• 1 pound container vanilla bark

Coating Mix

• 3.4 ounce cheesecake pudding mix
• 3 ounce cherry gelatin mix
• 1 cup plus 3 tablespoons powdered sugar
• Red and pink sprinkles (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare Pan: Line a large baking sheet with foil to create a surface where the coated puppy chow can set evenly without sticking.
2. Mix Coating: In a large zip-top bag, combine the cheesecake pudding mix, cherry gelatin mix, powdered sugar, and optional red and pink sprinkles to make the flavorful coating mixture.
3. Prepare Cereal: Measure 8 cups of rice square cereal into a large mixing bowl to ensure you have the correct amount to coat.
4. Melt Chocolate: Place the vanilla bark in its original tray and microwave on high for 1 minute, then stir well. Microwave for an additional minute or until completely melted and smooth.
5. Coat Cereal: Pour the melted vanilla bark over the cereal in the bowl and stir thoroughly until every piece is evenly coated with the chocolate.
6. Add Coating: Transfer the chocolate-covered cereal into the zip-top bag containing the powdered sugar mixture and shake vigorously until all the cereal pieces are thoroughly coated with the dry mix.
7. Set: Spread the coated puppy chow onto the foil-lined baking sheet and allow it to set until firm. Once set, transfer to an airtight container for storage. The puppy chow will keep well for up to two weeks.

Notes

• Use rice square cereal like Chex for the perfect crunch and coating adherence.
• Microwaving vanilla bark in increments and stirring ensures smooth melting without burning.
• Optional sprinkles add a festive touch and a slight crunch but can be omitted.
• Store puppy chow in an airtight container to maintain freshness and crispness.
• This recipe makes a perfect gift or party snack and is easily customizable with different gelatin flavors.

Keywords: cherry cheesecake puppy chow, puppy chow recipe, chex mix, no-bake snack, vanilla bark, cherry gelatin, cheesecake pudding