Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow
A no-bake snack that combines crispy Rice Chex with a creamy white chocolate and peanut butter coating, infused with cherry flavor for a delightful treat.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 cups Rice Chex cereal Gluten-free if using certified GF brand
- 1 cup white chocolate chips Or white candy melts
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter Substitute almond butter for a different flavor; use sunflower seed butter for a nut-free version
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup cherry-flavored candy melts Optional — adds color and fruit flavor
- 1/2 cup mini marshmallows Optional — for chew
- 1/2 cup chopped cherries Optional — fresh or thawed frozen; pat dry before adding
Instructions
Preparation
- Pour the Rice Chex into a large mixing bowl and set aside.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine white chocolate chips and peanut butter. Microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each, until smooth and lump-free.
- Drizzle the melted mixture evenly over the Rice Chex. Gently fold and toss with a spatula until the cereal is well coated.
- In a large resealable plastic bag, combine powdered sugar with cherry-flavored candy melts if using. Seal and shake briefly to mix.
- Transfer the coated cereal into the bag in batches, seal, and shake until the pieces are evenly dusted with the powdered sugar mixture.
- If using, add mini marshmallows and chopped cherries to the coated cereal and fold gently to combine — do this just before serving if using fresh cherries so they don’t make the cereal soggy.
- Spread the finished puppy chow onto a baking sheet in a single layer to cool and firm up for 10–15 minutes.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature and enjoy.
Notes
For a dairy-free version, choose dairy-free white chips and check your marshmallow and candy melts for suitability. Stir 1–2 teaspoons cream cheese powder into the powdered sugar before coating for a truer cheesecake tang. Store at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 5 days.