Name: Irresistible Strawberry Shortcake Puppy Chow Recipe – Easy Sweet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 6 cups rice or corn cereal squares (such as Chex); 1 cup white chocolate chips; 1 cup freeze-dried strawberries; ¾ cup powdered sugar; ½ cup strawberry cake mix; 2 tbsp butter; 1 tsp vanilla extract

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Strawberry Shortcake Puppy Chow is a delightful twist on the classic snack mix, featuring the sweet and tangy flavors of strawberries paired with the creamy richness of white chocolate and the satisfying crunch of cereal. This no-bake treat is perfect for parties, movie nights, or whenever you need a quick and easy dessert to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

No Baking Required – Quick and simple to prepare without needing an oven.
Deliciously Sweet & Tangy – Combines creamy white chocolate with the refreshing taste of strawberries.
Perfect for Any Occasion – Great for parties, gifting, or just a fun snack at home.
Kid-Friendly – A treat the whole family will enjoy, and kids can help make it too!
Customizable – Easily adapted for different flavors and dietary preferences.

Ingredients

Rice or corn cereal squares
White chocolate chips
Freeze-dried strawberries
Powdered sugar
Strawberry cake mix
Butter
Vanilla extract

Directions

Prepare the Strawberry Coating – In a food processor, blend freeze-dried strawberries until they become a fine powder. Mix this powder with powdered sugar and strawberry cake mix in a large bowl.
Melt the Chocolate – In a microwave-safe bowl, melt white chocolate chips and butter in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth. Stir in vanilla extract for added flavor.
Coat the Cereal – Place the cereal squares in a large mixing bowl. Pour the melted white chocolate mixture over the cereal and gently stir to coat each piece evenly.
Toss with Strawberry Mixture – Transfer the coated cereal into a large resealable bag or a clean bowl. Add the strawberry-sugar mixture, seal the bag, and shake until all the cereal pieces are fully coated.
Cool and Serve – Spread the puppy chow onto a lined baking sheet and let it sit until the chocolate firms up. Once cooled, serve and enjoy!

Variations

Chocolate Strawberry Mix – Add a handful of milk or dark chocolate chips to balance the sweetness.
Lemon Twist – Add lemon zest to the strawberry-sugar mixture for a tangy contrast.
Gluten-Free Option – Use certified gluten-free cereal and cake mix.
Healthier Version – Swap white chocolate for yogurt chips and use less powdered sugar.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Servings: About 8 cups

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
Refrigeration: Store in the fridge for up to 2 weeks to maintain freshness.
Freezing: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Allow to thaw at room temperature before serving.

FAQs

Can I use fresh strawberries instead of freeze-dried?

No, fresh strawberries add moisture and can make the mix soggy. Stick to freeze-dried for the best texture.

What type of cereal works best?

Rice or corn-based cereal squares (like Chex) are ideal for absorbing the coating while staying crispy.

How can I make this less sweet?

Reduce the powdered sugar or mix it with unsweetened coconut flakes for a milder sweetness.

Can I use white chocolate candy melts instead of white chocolate chips?

Yes, candy melts work well and often melt more smoothly than chips.

Is this safe for dogs to eat?

No, despite the name, this treat is not for pets. It contains chocolate and sugar, which are harmful to dogs.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes! Use dairy-free white chocolate and plant-based butter for a vegan-friendly version.

How can I prevent the chocolate from clumping?

Stir frequently while melting and add a teaspoon of coconut oil to make it smoother.

Can I use flavored cake mix?

Yes, strawberry, vanilla, or even funfetti cake mix can add extra flavor.

Will this work with dark chocolate instead of white?

It will alter the flavor, but if you love dark chocolate, feel free to experiment!

Can I add nuts or other mix-ins?

Absolutely! Try adding sliced almonds, crushed cookies, or mini marshmallows for extra texture.

Conclusion

Strawberry Shortcake Puppy Chow is an irresistible, no-bake treat that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. Whether you’re preparing it for a gathering or simply indulging in a snack, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Try it today and enjoy the perfect blend of creamy, crunchy, and fruity goodness!

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