Strawberry Shortcake Puppy Chow Recipe
A fun and fruity twist on traditional puppy chow, this Strawberry Shortcake Puppy Chow combines crispy cereal coated in sweet white chocolate and powdered sugar with bursts of freeze-dried strawberries for a delightful snack that’s perfect for gatherings, parties, or anytime you crave a sweet treat.
- Author: Nora
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 8 servings 1x
- Category: Snack
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Main Ingredients
- 6 cups Rice or Corn Chex cereal
- 1½ cups white chocolate chips
- 1 cup freeze-dried strawberries
- ¾ cup powdered sugar
Optional Add-ins
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Melt the White Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the white chocolate chips in 20-second intervals, stirring well after each, until smooth and fully melted. Stir in vanilla extract and a pinch of salt if using to enhance flavor.
- Combine Cereal and Strawberries: In a large mixing bowl, gently break the freeze-dried strawberries into smaller pieces if they are too large, then add them to the cereal and carefully mix to distribute evenly without crushing the berries.
- Coat the Cereal: Pour the melted white chocolate over the cereal and strawberry mixture. Use a spatula to gently fold and stir until all cereal pieces are evenly coated with the white chocolate.
- Add Powdered Sugar: Transfer the coated cereal mixture into a large resealable plastic bag or a large bowl. Add the powdered sugar, seal the bag or cover the bowl, and shake or stir vigorously to thoroughly coat the cereal with powdered sugar, creating that classic puppy chow texture.
- Cool and Set: Spread the coated mixture in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Allow to cool completely so the white chocolate hardens, about 20-30 minutes at room temperature. Once set, break apart any clusters.
- Serve and Store: Transfer the puppy chow to a serving bowl and enjoy immediately, or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain freshness and crunch.
Notes
- Use white chocolate chips of good quality for smooth melting and best flavor.
- Freeze-dried strawberries add a crunchy texture and intense strawberry flavor; avoid fresh strawberries as they will make the mixture soggy.
- Vanilla extract and a pinch of salt are optional but enhance the overall flavor complexity.
- Store in an airtight container to keep the puppy chow crisp and fresh.
- This snack is best enjoyed within 5 days for optimal texture and flavor.
Keywords: Strawberry Shortcake Puppy Chow, Puppy Chow, Chex Mix Dessert, White Chocolate Snack, Freeze-Dried Strawberry Snack