This fluffy strawberry shortcake puppy chow is a sweet, crunchy treat with a burst of strawberry flavor! Made with Chex cereal, white chocolate, and strawberry mix, it’s super easy to whip up.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rice Chex Cereal: This gluten-free cereal is great for texture and holds up well in this recipe. If Rice Chex isn’t available, you could use Corn Chex or even a similar cereal mix like Crispix.
White Chocolate Chips: For a smoother taste, white chocolate chips are essential here. If you’re not a fan, consider using milk or dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor.
Peanut Butter: Creamy peanut butter adds a nice texture and flavor. If you’re nut-free, feel free to use sunflower butter or a nut-free alternative to keep it safe and just as tasty.
Strawberry Cake Mix: This is what gives the mix its strawberry flavor. If you can’t find a cake mix, strawberry Jell-O powder can work in a pinch, or you might even try a homemade version with flour, sugar, and strawberry purée!
Freeze-Dried Strawberries: These add a nice crunch and burst of flavor. If you can’t get them, try using fresh strawberries, but keep in mind they will create moisture in the mix. Dried strawberries are another option.
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Coating on My Cereal?
Getting that perfect coating takes a little bit of care. When melting the chocolate and peanut butter, make sure you’re doing it in short intervals and stirring well to prevent burning. It should be smooth and shiny.
- Microwave the mixture in 30-second increments, stirring in between until it’s fully melted.
- Once your mixture is ready, gently fold it over the Rice Chex, ensuring all pieces get an even coat without breaking them.
- After coating, use a resealable bag to mix with the strawberry sugar mixture. This helps distribute evenly without making a mess.
How to Make Fluffy Strawberry Shortcake Puppy Chow?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Puppy Chow:
- 4 cups Rice Chex cereal
- 1 cup white chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/2 cup strawberry cake mix
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup freeze-dried strawberries, crushed (optional for extra flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty treat takes about 15 minutes to prepare and an additional 30 minutes for cooling. Perfect for a quick and sweet snack anytime!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cereal:
Start by pouring 4 cups of Rice Chex cereal into a large mixing bowl. Set it aside for now; it will be the base of your puppy chow.
2. Melt the Chocolate:
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the white chocolate chips, creamy peanut butter, and vanilla extract. Microwave the bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring well in between each interval. Keep going until the mixture is completely melted and smooth—not too hot!
3. Coat the Cereal:
Once your chocolate mixture is melted, pour it over the Rice Chex cereal. Use a spatula to gently fold the cereal, making sure every piece is coated evenly with that delicious chocolate mix.
4. Make the Strawberry Coating:
In another bowl, mix the strawberry cake mix and powdered sugar together. If you want an extra burst of flavor, add the crushed freeze-dried strawberries and mix well. This will create a sweet coating for your puppy chow.
5. Combine and Coat:
Transfer the coated cereal into a large resealable bag or another bowl. Pour the strawberry mixture over the cereal, then close the bag or mix gently in the bowl to coat all the pieces. Shake it up or toss it carefully until everything is perfectly covered!
6. Cool It Down:
Spread the puppy chow onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Let it cool completely at room temperature. This is important, so it can set nicely!
7. Store and Enjoy:
Once everything is cool, transfer your Fluffy Strawberry Shortcake Puppy Chow into an airtight container. Now, enjoy this delightful, sweet snack anytime you crave something special!
Can I Substitute the White Chocolate Chips?
Yes, you can! If you want a different flavor, try using milk chocolate or dark chocolate chips instead. You can also use dairy-free chocolate chips for a vegan option. Just keep an eye on the melting time as different types of chocolate may melt at different rates.
Can I Use a Different Cereal?
Absolutely! If you don’t have Rice Chex on hand, feel free to substitute with Corn Chex, Crispix, or even a similar puffed cereal. Just ensure it’s sturdy enough to hold up during mixing!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover puppy chow in an airtight container at room temperature. It should last for about 1 week. If you prefer a longer shelf life, you can refrigerate it, but make sure it’s completely cooled first to prevent moisture buildup.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes! To make this recipe gluten-free, ensure that you use certified gluten-free Rice Chex and check that your other ingredients, especially the cake mix, are gluten-free as well. There are specific gluten-free cake mixes available that will work perfectly!
