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Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow is the perfect sweet treat when you want something fun to share at parties or movie nights. This recipe captures all the flavors of cherry cheesecake but only takes minutes to put together and there is no baking required. Sweet cherry, creamy cheesecake, a crispy crunch and pockets of dried cherries make every bite irresistible for all ages.
Every time I bring this to a birthday or picnic friends empty the bowl fast. My niece calls it the most magical snack I make which is high praise from a picky eight year old.
Ingredients
- Chex cereal: Choose either rice or corn The crisp texture is essential
- White chocolate chips: Smooth foundation for everything to stick together Choose high quality for easy melting
- Unsalted butter: Helps the white chocolate melt evenly and delivers extra richness Use real butter for the best flavor
- Cherry gelatin mix: Provides bold cherry flavor and a vibrant color I like Jell O but any brand is fine
- Powdered sugar: Lightly dusts each piece so they do not stick together Pick one with fine texture if possible
- Instant cheesecake pudding mix: Adds the creamy cheesecake tang Use original not sugar free for best coverage
- Dried cherries: Bring a delicious tart chewiness Chop them small so every handful has some fruity pieces
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Cereal:
- Measure the Chex cereal into an extra large bowl This gives you space to stir later and prevents crushing pieces
- Melt Chocolate and Butter:
- Combine white chocolate chips with butter in a microwave safe bowl Heat for thirty seconds Stir and repeat in short bursts until velvety smooth Do not overheat or it may seize
- Mix in Gelatin:
- Add the cherry gelatin mix to the melted chocolate mixture Stir thoroughly to ensure all powder dissolves and the mixture is evenly colored This helps the flavor spread evenly
- Coat the Cereal:
- Immediately pour the cherry chocolate mix over the cereal Gently fold with a spatula to coat each piece completely Work fast before the chocolate begins to set
- Dust with Sugar Mixture:
- In a large zip top bag combine powdered sugar and instant cheesecake pudding mix Add the coated cereal Seal tightly then shake hard until every piece is covered with sugary goodness
- Cool and Set:
- Spread the cereal over a parchment lined baking sheet Make sure it is in an even layer Let it cool until dry and there are no sticky spots This prevents clumping
- Add Cherries and Serve:
- Once fully cooled sprinkle the chopped dried cherries and mix gently so they are evenly distributed Now the puppy chow is ready to eat
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The best part for me is watching everyone guess the hidden cheesecake flavor No one ever expects it but it makes this snack extra special I always use real dried cherries for that tart pop and my grandmother would sneak a handful before everyone else could dig in
Storage Tips
Store your cherry cheesecake puppy chow in a tightly sealed container at room temperature for up to one week I use large glass jars or zip top bags for freshness Avoid humidity or the coating will get sticky For parties prep a day ahead and let it cool uncovered then transfer to your container
Ingredient Substitutions
You can use freeze dried strawberries in place of dried cherries for a twist Vanilla pudding works in place of cheesecake but will have a mellower flavor If you are out of white chocolate mix half vanilla melting wafers for a similar texture but it will change the taste slightly Corn Chex or Rice Chex both work great Keep the base cereal crunchy
Serving Suggestions
Pour into bowls for birthday buffets or bag up individual portions as party favors This treat is a hit at holiday cookie swaps or after school snack time Try layering in a parfait with whipped cream for a fun dessert I have even sprinkled some over vanilla ice cream for a sweet crunch
Cherry Dessert Roots
Puppy chow or muddy buddies is a classic American party snack with Midwest roots People have loved candy coated cereal for decades This cherry cheesecake version carries on the tradition but with a red and white twist that makes every bite taste like spring celebrations I first made this for a Fourth of July picnic and now it is a family summer tradition
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use flavored Chex cereal instead of plain?
Yes, though using plain rice or corn Chex helps the cherry and cheesecake flavors stand out best.
- → What can I substitute for cherry gelatin mix?
Try strawberry or raspberry gelatin for a similar fruity taste with subtle differences in flavor.
- → Is it necessary to use white chocolate chips?
White chocolate chips are recommended for a creamy base, but candy melts can work as an alternative.
- → How do I store this crunchy snack?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week to keep it fresh and crisp.
- → Can I add other mix-ins besides dried cherries?
Sure! Dried strawberries, yogurt-covered raisins, or mini marshmallows can add fun variety and texture.