Name: Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 2 min
Total time: 12 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: Rice Chex Cereal: 5 cups; White Chocolate Chips: 1 cup; Cream Cheese, softened: 2 tablespoons; Unsalted Butter: 2 tablespoons; Vanilla Extract: ½ teaspoon; Powdered Sugar: ½ cup; Cherry Gelatin Mix (dry): ½ cup; Crushed Graham Crackers: ½ cup;

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If you’re looking to dazzle your friends or satisfy your sweet tooth with something playful, you can’t go wrong with Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow. This irresistible treat combines crunchy Chex cereal, creamy white chocolate, tangy cream cheese, a burst of cherry flavor, and a kiss of graham cracker for that classic cheesecake finish. With its eye-catching pink hue and cheesecake nostalgia, this homemade snack is always a conversation starter and disappears in record time at any party or family gathering!

Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow is in how just a handful of everyday ingredients deliver layers of flavor and texture. Each piece truly shines, gently echoing the flavors found in a slice of luscious cherry cheesecake.

Rice Chex cereal: The ultra-crispy base that holds up to all the sweet, creamy coatings without getting soggy.
White chocolate chips: Melted into a silky glaze, these add subtle sweetness and the creamy “cheesecake” layer.
Cream cheese (softened): For that unmistakable tang and soft, cheesecake-like richness in every bite.
Unsalted butter: Adds smoothness and helps everything melt together beautifully.
Vanilla extract: A little vanilla deepens the dessert flavor and rounds out the sweetness.
Powdered sugar: The light and sweet coating that gives puppy chow its signature powdery exterior.
Cherry gelatin mix (dry): The secret to that vibrant color and punchy cherry flavor—it’s a game changer!
Crushed graham crackers: Just like a cheesecake crust, this brings a buttery, toasty crunch and ties everything together.

How to Make Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow

Step 1: Prepare the Cereal

Start by measuring out your Rice Chex cereal into the biggest mixing bowl you have—this makes it much easier to coat every square. Keep the cereal waiting nearby so it’s ready for the creamy coating.

Step 2: Melt and Mix the Creamy Layer

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine your white chocolate chips, softened cream cheese, and unsalted butter. Microwave in 30-second spurts, stirring after each, until the mixture is completely smooth and luscious. Stir in the vanilla extract for that sweet, bakery aroma.

Step 3: Coat the Cereal

Pour your warm, creamy mixture over the Chex cereal. Resist the urge to rush—gently stir with a big spatula until every piece is evenly coated. This silky base is what makes Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow so decadent and satisfying!

Step 4: Add the Signature Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow Topping

In a large zip-top bag, toss together the powdered sugar, cherry gelatin mix, and crushed graham crackers. This blend delivers the color, sweetness, cherry burst, and a nod to classic cheesecake crust. Add the coated cereal, seal the bag tightly, and shake, shake, shake until every piece is gloriously coated and blushing cherry pink.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

Spread your beautiful, fragrant puppy chow onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Let it cool completely—this helps set the coating (and gives you sneak-snacking opportunities as it cools). Once fully cooled, transfer it to an airtight container. It’s ready to party or just brighten your next snack break!

How to Serve Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow

Garnishes

Take things up a notch with a handful of extras: toss in some freeze-dried cherries or mini marshmallows for texture, or sprinkle with extra crushed graham crackers just before serving for even more cheesecake vibes.

Side Dishes

Pair your Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow with a bowl of fresh berries, a cold glass of milk, or even some tangy lemonade. It makes a sweet counterpoint to salty snacks like pretzels or mixed nuts at a party.

Creative Ways to Present

Pour the puppy chow into colorful cups for individual servings at birthday parties, fill cellophane bags tied with ribbon for take-home treats, or pile high in a trifle bowl as a centerpiece at your next movie night or picnic.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. The key is to keep it sealed tight so it stays crispy and fresh.

Freezing

If you want to plan ahead, you can freeze puppy chow! Just place it in a freezer-safe zip-top bag or container, and freeze for up to two months. Thaw at room temperature before serving—no need to reheat.

Reheating

Reheating isn’t usually necessary, but if your puppy chow loses some crunch, you can spread it on a baking sheet and pop it in a 250°F oven for 5 minutes. Let it cool before serving to restore crispness.

FAQs

Can I use a different cereal other than Rice Chex?

Absolutely! While Rice Chex gives the best light and crispy texture, you can try corn Chex or even Crispix for a tasty twist. Just be sure to use a plain, unsweetened variety for best results.

What if I don’t have cherry gelatin mix?

The cherry gelatin provides not just color but a distinctive tangy cherry flavor. If you’re in a pinch, use strawberry or raspberry gelatin instead. It’ll be delicious, even if slightly different!

Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Use dairy-free white chocolate chips, vegan butter, and a plant-based cream cheese to enjoy a delicious dairy-free Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow. Your vegan friends will thank you.

Can I double this recipe for a big group?

Definitely! Simply double all the ingredients and use an extra-large mixing bowl and bag for coating. It’s perfect for holidays, bake sales, or big celebrations where everyone wants a handful.

What can I add for more texture or flavor?

Try stirring in mini marshmallows, chopped dried cherries, or even a handful of white chocolate chips after coating. These little surprises make every bite of Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow even more fun!

Final Thoughts

If you’ve been craving something sweet and playful, it’s the perfect time to whip up a batch of Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow. It’s colorful, creative, and bursting with nostalgic cherry cheesecake flavor. Whether you’re serving it at a party or sneaking handfuls for yourself, this treat is bound to win hearts—so why not make it your new go-to snack?

Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow Recipe

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4.6 from 13 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 12 minutes
Yield: 10 servings
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in this delightful Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow, a sweet and crunchy snack mix that’s perfect for parties or a quick treat. Coated in a creamy white chocolate and cherry-flavored mixture, this addictive snack is sure to please.

Ingredients

Rice Chex Cereal:

5 cups;

White Chocolate Chips:

1 cup;

Cream Cheese, softened:

2 tablespoons;

Unsalted Butter:

2 tablespoons;

Vanilla Extract:

½ teaspoon;

Powdered Sugar:

½ cup;

Cherry Gelatin Mix (dry):

½ cup;

Crushed Graham Crackers:

½ cup;

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Instructions

Prepare Cereal: In a large mixing bowl, add the Rice Chex cereal and set aside.
Melt White Chocolate Mixture: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine white chocolate chips, cream cheese, and butter. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth and fully melted. Stir in vanilla extract.
Coat Cereal: Pour the mixture over the cereal and gently stir until evenly coated.
Prepare Coating: In a large zip-top bag, mix the powdered sugar, dry cherry gelatin mix, and crushed graham crackers.
Combine Coated Cereal: Add the coated cereal to the bag, seal it, and shake until fully coated.
Cool and Store: Spread the mixture out on a parchment-lined baking sheet to cool completely. Store in an airtight container at room temperature.