Zesty Lemonade Puppy Chow Recipe

Introduction

Zesty Lemonade Puppy Chow is a bright and tangy twist on the classic snack mix. This delicious treat combines crispy rice cereal coated in a lemon-infused white chocolate coating and dusted with powdered sugar for a perfect balance of sweetness and citrus zing.

Ingredients

• 4 cups Crispy Rice Cereal Squares (Use your favorite brand for the best taste.)
• 1 cup Powdered Sugar (Can substitute with granulated sugar.)
• 1 cup White Chocolate Chips (Opt for dairy-free chocolate if you want a vegan option.)
• 1/4 cup Butter (Can replace with coconut oil for a dairy-free option.)
• 1 tablespoon Lemon Zest (Always use fresh zest for the most robust taste.)
• 1/4 cup Lemon Juice (Freshly squeezed juice is preferred.)
• 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Try almond extract for a fun alternative.)
• A few drops Yellow Food Coloring (Brightens the appearance but optional.)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Place the crispy rice cereal squares into a large mixing bowl, allowing enough space to stir gently without spilling.
2. Step 2: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the white chocolate chips and butter. Heat in 30-second bursts at medium power, stirring vigorously until fully melted and smooth.
3. Step 3: Add the lemon zest, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and yellow food coloring (if using) to the melted mixture. Stir until fully combined.
4. Step 4: Pour the lemony chocolate mixture over the cereal in the mixing bowl. Use a spatula to gently fold the cereal, coating it evenly.
5. Step 5: Place the powdered sugar into a large resealable plastic bag. Add the coated cereal in batches, seal the bag tightly, and shake gently until the cereal is well coated with sugar.
6. Step 6: Spread the coated cereal on wax paper or a parchment-lined baking sheet and let it cool for about 30 minutes to firm up before serving.

Tips & Variations

• For a dairy-free version, substitute butter with coconut oil and use dairy-free white chocolate chips.
• Try adding a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness and enhance the lemon flavor.
• Almond extract can be used instead of vanilla extract for a slightly different flavor profile.
• If you prefer a more intense lemon taste, increase the zest and juice slightly, but be careful not to make the mixture too wet.

Storage

Store the puppy chow in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, keep it in the refrigerator for up to a week. When ready to eat, let it come to room temperature for the best texture. Reheating is not necessary.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use another type of cereal instead of crispy rice squares?

Yes, you can substitute with similar cereals like Cheerios or cornflakes, but the texture and coating may vary slightly.

Is it necessary to use food coloring?

No, the yellow food coloring is optional and mainly used to brighten the appearance. The lemon zest and juice will provide plenty of natural color and flavor.

Zesty Lemonade Puppy Chow Recipe

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★★★★★

4.4 from 115 reviews

Zesty Lemonade Puppy Chow is a refreshing twist on the classic snack mix, featuring crispy rice cereal coated in a tangy lemon-infused white chocolate mixture and powdered sugar. Perfect for a bright, citrusy treat that’s easy to make and delightful to snack on.

• Author: Maya
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: About 6 servings 1x
• Category: Snack
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

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Dry Ingredients

• 4 cups Crispy Rice Cereal Squares (Use your favorite brand for the best taste.)
• 1 cup Powdered Sugar (Can substitute with granulated sugar.)
• 1 tablespoon Lemon Zest (Always use fresh zest for the most robust taste.)

Wet Ingredients

• 1 cup White Chocolate Chips (Opt for dairy-free chocolate if you want a vegan option.)
• 1/4 cup Butter (Can replace with coconut oil for a dairy-free option.)
• 1/4 cup Lemon Juice (Freshly squeezed juice is preferred.)
• 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Try almond extract for a fun alternative.)
• a few drops Yellow Food Coloring (Brightens the appearance but optional.)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Cereal: Place the crispy rice cereal squares into a large mixing bowl, ensuring there’s enough space to stir gently without spilling.
2. Melt White Chocolate and Butter: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the white chocolate chips and butter. Heat this mixture in 30-second bursts at medium power, stirring vigorously until fully melted and smooth.
3. Add Flavorings: Once melted, add the lemon zest, freshly squeezed lemon juice, vanilla extract, and yellow food coloring (if using) to the bowl. Stir everything together thoroughly until the mixture is cohesive and smooth.
4. Combine with Cereal: Gently pour the melted lemony white chocolate mixture over the cereal in the mixing bowl. Using a spatula, carefully fold the cereal with the chocolate mixture to coat evenly without breaking the cereal.
5. Coat with Powdered Sugar: Grab a large resealable plastic bag and pour in the powdered sugar. Carefully add the coated cereal in batches, seal the bag tightly, and shake gently until the cereal is completely covered in powdered sugar.
6. Cool and Set: Spread the coated cereal out on wax paper or a parchment-lined baking sheet. Allow it to cool and firm up for about 30 minutes before serving.

Notes

• For a vegan version, use dairy-free white chocolate chips and substitute butter with coconut oil.
• Fresh lemon zest and juice are essential for the best lemon flavor.
• Yellow food coloring is optional but enhances the visual appeal.
• Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness and crunch.
• Shake the sealed bag gently in batches to ensure even coating without crushing the cereal.

Keywords: puppy chow, lemon puppy chow, lemonade snack, white chocolate, crispy rice cereal, lemon zest, easy snack