Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow Recipe

Introduction

Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow is a delightful, sweet snack that combines the crunch of Chex cereal with creamy white chocolate and tangy dried cherries. This easy-to-make treat is perfect for parties or a cozy night in.

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

1. Step 1: Place the Chex cereal in a large bowl and set aside.
2. Step 2: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the white chocolate chips and butter. Microwave for 30 seconds, stir, then continue heating in 15-second intervals, stirring until the mixture is smooth.
3. Step 3: Stir the cherry gelatin mix into the melted chocolate and butter mixture until completely combined.
4. Step 4: Pour the cherry-chocolate mixture over the cereal. Gently fold until all the pieces are evenly coated.
5. Step 5: In a large zip-top bag, mix the powdered sugar and cheesecake pudding mix. Add the coated cereal to the bag, seal it tightly, and shake well until each piece is thoroughly covered.
6. Step 6: Spread the coated cereal on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to cool and set.
7. Step 7: Once cooled, stir in the chopped dried cherries and serve.

Tips & Variations

• Try using white chocolate almond bark instead of chips for a smoother melt and a slightly different texture.
• For a festive twist, add a handful of chopped nuts or swap dried cherries for dried cranberries.
• Make sure to cool the coated cereal completely before adding the dried cherries to prevent them from becoming sticky.

Storage

Store the Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. Keep it in a cool, dry place to maintain crunchiness. If it softens, gently re-crisp by spreading it out on a baking sheet and warming briefly in a low oven.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of gelatin flavor?

Yes, you can substitute the cherry gelatin mix with other flavors like strawberry or raspberry to create different variations, but cherry complements the dried cherries best.

Is it necessary to use instant cheesecake pudding mix?

The cheesecake pudding mix adds a creamy tang that makes this snack unique, but you can omit it if needed; however, the overall flavor and coating texture may be slightly different.

Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow Recipe

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★★★★★

4.4 from 143 reviews

This Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow is a delightful, sweet snack mix featuring crispy Chex cereal coated in a luscious white chocolate, butter, and cherry gelatin mixture, dusted with powdered sugar and cheesecake pudding mix, and finished with chunks of chewy dried cherries. Perfect for parties, holiday treats, or anytime you crave a flavorful, crunchy dessert snack.

• Author: Windy
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: About 12 servings 1x
• Category: Snack
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

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

1. Prepare the Cereal: Place 9 cups of Chex cereal into a large mixing bowl and set aside to be coated later.
2. Melt Chocolate and Butter: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine 1 cup of white chocolate chips and 1/4 cup of unsalted butter. Microwave for 30 seconds, then stir. Continue microwaving in 15-second intervals, stirring between each, until the mixture is smooth and fully melted.
3. Mix in Gelatin: Add 1/2 cup of cherry gelatin mix to the melted chocolate and butter mixture. Stir thoroughly until the gelatin is completely incorporated and the mixture is uniform.
4. Coat the Cereal: Pour the cherry-chocolate mixture over the prepared Chex cereal. Gently fold the cereal pieces to coat them evenly and thoroughly with the mixture without breaking them.
5. Dust with Sugar Mixture: In a large zip-top bag, combine 1/2 cup powdered sugar and one 3.5 oz package of instant cheesecake pudding mix. Add the coated cereal pieces to the bag, seal it tightly, and shake vigorously until each piece is well coated with the sugar and pudding blend.
6. Cool and Set: Spread the coated cereal out onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Allow it to cool and set at room temperature until the coating hardens slightly for a perfect texture.
7. Add Cherries and Serve: Once cooled, transfer the puppy chow back into a mixing bowl, stir in 1 cup of chopped dried cherries evenly throughout the mix, then serve immediately or store in an airtight container for later snacking.

Notes

• Use rice or corn Chex according to preference; both yield excellent texture and flavor.
• Microwave chocolate slowly in intervals to avoid burning or overheating.
• Ensure that the powdered sugar and cheesecake pudding mix coat the cereal thoroughly for the best flavor and appearance.
• Storing the puppy chow in an airtight container will keep it fresh for up to one week.
• This recipe is a no-bake treat, perfect for quick preparation and easy entertaining.

Keywords: Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow, Chex Mix Dessert, White Chocolate Snack, Sweet Treat, No-Bake Snack