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Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow

cherry cheesecake puppy chow - featured image
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This easy, no-bake Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow combines crunchy cereal with a creamy cheesecake coating and bursts of real cherry flavor. It’s the perfect quick snack for parties, movie nights, or whenever you need a sweet treat.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 cups Rice Chex or Crispix cereal (about 160g)
  • 1 1/2 cups white chocolate chips or melting wafers (about 255g)
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened (about 113g)
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter (about 28g)
  • 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar (about 180g), plus more for dusting
  • 1 cup freeze-dried cherries (about 30g)
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract (about 5ml)
  • 1/2 cup graham cracker crumbs (about 50g)
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. Measure 6 cups Rice Chex or Crispix into a large mixing bowl and set aside.
  2. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine white chocolate chips, softened cream cheese, and unsalted butter. Microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring after each, until smooth (about 1 1/2–2 minutes). If mixture thickens, add 1–2 tsp milk until pourable.
  3. Stir in vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Add 2 tbsp graham cracker crumbs if desired; reserve the rest for topping.
  4. Place freeze-dried cherries in a zip-top bag and lightly crush with a rolling pin or hands, leaving some powder and some larger bits. Set aside.
  5. Pour the warm cheesecake mixture over the cereal. Gently fold with a spatula until every piece is coated.
  6. Add the crushed freeze-dried cherries and stir gently. Reserve a few bits for sprinkling on top if desired.
  7. Transfer the coated cereal to a large zip-top bag or lidded container. Add powdered sugar, seal, and shake until every piece is coated and separated. Break up any clumps with your hands.
  8. Spread the puppy chow on a baking sheet lined with parchment. Sprinkle with remaining graham cracker crumbs and reserved cherry pieces. Let set for 10–15 minutes until dry to the touch.
  9. Once cool, transfer to a serving bowl or airtight container. Store at room temperature for up to 5 days.

Notes

For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free cereal and graham cracker crumbs. Work quickly when coating the cereal, as the mixture sets fast. If the coating seizes, add a splash of milk and stir until smooth. Let the puppy chow cool completely before storing to prevent sogginess. Optional add-ins include mini chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or a drizzle of dark chocolate.

Nutrition

Keywords: puppy chow, muddy buddies, cherry cheesecake, no-bake snack, party snack, easy dessert, sweet snack, gluten-free option, kid-friendly, white chocolate, freeze-dried cherries

Find it online: https://norasfoods.com/cherry-cheesecake-puppy-chow-recipe-easy-no-bake-snack-for-parties/