Craving a snack that’s as fun to make as it is to eat? Look no further than this Ultimate Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow. This sweet, tangy, and creamy twist on the classic Puppy Chow recipe is sure to become your new go-to treat. Whether you’re hosting a party, prepping for movie night, or just looking for something indulgent to satisfy your cravings, this snack mix delivers big on flavor and fun. With its vibrant cherry notes, rich cheesecake essence, and crunchy cereal base, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to whip up in no time.
What makes this recipe truly special is how simple it is to customize. You can adjust the sweetness, add extra toppings, or even make it ahead of time for convenience. Ready to dive into this delightful dessert? Let’s get started!
What is Puppy Chow?
Before we jump into the recipe, let’s talk about what makes Puppy Chow so irresistible. Also known as Muddy Buddies, this beloved snack mix is traditionally made with Chex cereal coated in a sweet, chocolatey mixture and dusted with powdered sugar. It’s a perfect balance of crunch, sweetness, and richness that’s hard to resist. While the classic version uses chocolate and peanut butter, this Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow swaps out those flavors for a fruity, creamy twist that’s just as addictive.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are so many reasons to fall head over heels for this Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow. First, the flavor combination is simply divine. The tartness of cherries pairs beautifully with the creamy cheesecake undertones, while the white chocolate adds a touch of sweetness that ties everything together. Second, it’s incredibly easy to make—no baking required! Just a few simple steps and you’ll have a delicious snack ready to enjoy. Finally, it’s versatile enough to suit any occasion. Serve it at parties, pack it for road trips, or enjoy it as an after-dinner treat. Trust us, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen!
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
To make this magical snack, you’ll need a handful of pantry staples and a couple of specialty ingredients that elevate the flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Chex Cereal: Rice or Corn Chex work perfectly here. Their light, crispy texture is ideal for holding onto the sweet coating.
- White Chocolate Chips: These provide the creamy, melt-in-your-mouth base for the snack mix.
- Cherry Flavoring: Use cherry extract or cherry-flavored gelatin powder to infuse the mix with that signature fruity tang.
- Cheesecake Powdered Drink Mix: This is the secret ingredient that gives the puppy chow its decadent cheesecake flavor. If you can’t find it, cheesecake-flavored pudding mix works too!
- Powdered Sugar: For that iconic snowy coating that makes Puppy Chow so irresistible.
- Optional Garnishes: Add a pop of color and extra flavor with chopped maraschino cherries or a drizzle of melted white chocolate.
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your very own batch of Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow:
- Prepare the Cereal
Start by placing 8 cups of Chex cereal in a large mixing bowl. Set it aside while you prepare the coating mixture. - Melt the White Chocolate
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt 1 cup of white chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring after each interval until smooth. Be careful not to overheat, as white chocolate can seize if overheated. - Add Flavoring
Stir in 2 tablespoons of cherry extract (or cherry gelatin powder) and 1/3 cup of cheesecake-flavored powdered drink mix. If you’d like a brighter color, add a few drops of red food coloring and mix well. - Coat the Cereal
Pour the melted white chocolate mixture over the cereal, gently tossing with a spatula to ensure each piece is evenly coated. Take your time here—it’s worth it for maximum flavor distribution. - Add Powdered Sugar
Transfer the coated cereal to a large resealable plastic bag. Add 1/2 cup of powdered sugar and shake vigorously until all the pieces are fully coated. The result should be a beautiful, snowy finish. - Chill and Garnish
Spread the coated cereal on a parchment-lined baking sheet and let it cool for about 30 minutes. Once cooled, sprinkle with finely chopped maraschino cherries and drizzle with additional melted white chocolate for a finishing touch.
Tips and Tricks
Here are some insider tips to make your Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow absolutely perfect:
- For Extra Crunch: Refrigerate the finished puppy chow for an hour before serving. This helps the coating set and gives the cereal an extra satisfying crunch.
- Customize Flavors: Feel free to experiment! Add crushed graham crackers, mini marshmallows, or even dried cranberries for added texture and flavor.
- Make it Kid-Friendly: Portion the snack into small resealable bags for a portable treat that kids will love. They’re perfect for lunchboxes or after-school snacks.
- Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet version, reduce the amount of powdered sugar or skip the optional garnishes.
Serving Suggestions
This Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow is as versatile as it is delicious. Serve it in a decorative bowl for a stunning presentation at parties, or portion it into individual snack bags for easy sharing. Pair it with other desserts like fruit skewers, vanilla ice cream, or a refreshing punch for a complete treat spread. It’s also a fantastic addition to holiday cookie platters or gift baskets.
Storage Instructions
To keep your puppy chow fresh and crunchy, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to 10 days or freeze it for up to a month. Just remember to bring it back to room temperature before serving to preserve its texture.
Why This Recipe Stands Out
What sets this Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow apart is its unique flavor profile and versatility. The combination of cherry, cheesecake, and white chocolate creates a snack that’s both familiar and exciting. Plus, its no-bake preparation makes it accessible for cooks of all skill levels. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just because, this recipe is guaranteed to impress.
So grab your ingredients, put on your favorite playlist, and get ready to make a snack that everyone will rave about. You’ve got this!
Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow
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
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 package (3.5 oz) instant cheesecake pudding mix
- 1 cup dried cherries, chopped
Instructions
- Place Chex cereal in a large mixing bowl and set aside.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine white chocolate chips and unsalted butter. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth.
- Stir in cherry gelatin mix until fully combined.
- Pour the cherry cheesecake mixture over the Chex cereal. Gently fold until all cereal pieces are evenly coated.
- In a large zip-top bag, combine powdered sugar and cheesecake pudding mix.
- Add the coated cereal to the bag, seal, and shake until all pieces are well coated.
- Spread the coated cereal on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to cool and set.
- Once cooled, stir in chopped dried cherries.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
