If you’re looking for a sweet, crunchy, and totally addictive snack, this Strawberry Shortcake Puppy Chow is about to be your new favorite treat! It’s everything you love about classic puppy chow (or Muddy Buddies) but with a fruity strawberry shortcake-inspired twist.
With crispy Rice Chex cereal coated in creamy white chocolate, crushed freeze-dried strawberries, and a dusting of powdered sugar, every bite is bursting with sweet, tangy, and buttery shortcake flavor. It’s easy, no-bake, and perfect for parties, movie nights, or just snacking straight from the bowl.
Let’s get into it!
Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Shortcake Puppy Chow
- No baking required – Just melt, mix, and shake!
- Perfect balance of flavors – Sweet white chocolate, tart strawberries, and crunchy cereal.
- A fun twist on a classic – A fresh take on traditional chocolate-based puppy chow.
- Great for parties & gifting – A colorful, snackable treat that’s easy to share!
Ingredients You’ll Need
(Serves 6-8 | Prep Time: 10 mins | Cool Time: 10 mins)
- 6 cups Rice Chex cereal
- 1 cup freeze-dried strawberries, crushed into powder
- 1 ½ cups white chocolate chips
- 2 tbsp butter
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- ½ cup crushed Golden Oreos (optional, for extra shortcake flavor)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Melt the White Chocolate
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the white chocolate chips and butter. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth and fully melted. Stir in the vanilla extract.
2. Coat the Chex Cereal
Place the Rice Chex cereal in a large mixing bowl. Pour the melted white chocolate over the cereal and gently stir until evenly coated.
3. Mix the Powdered Sugar & Strawberries
In a large ziplock bag, combine the powdered sugar, crushed freeze-dried strawberries, and crushed Golden Oreos (if using).
4. Shake It Up!
Add the coated cereal to the ziplock bag, seal it tightly, and shake vigorously until every piece is well covered.
5. Let It Set & Enjoy
Spread the Strawberry Shortcake Puppy Chow onto a baking sheet or parchment paper to cool and set for about 10 minutes.
Serve in a bowl, package in treat bags, or snack straight from the baking sheet—it’s completely irresistible!
Fun Ways to Serve This Puppy Chow
- In a snack mix – Mix with mini marshmallows, extra Golden Oreo pieces, or white chocolate chips for a fun twist.
- As an ice cream topping – Sprinkle over vanilla or strawberry ice cream for extra crunch.
- For parties & gifts – Package in cute jars or bags for a fun homemade treat!
My Tips for the Best Puppy Chow
- Use high-quality white chocolate – It melts smoother and coats the cereal evenly.
- Don’t overmix the cereal – Stir gently to avoid breaking the Chex pieces.
- Work quickly – The chocolate sets fast, so coat and shake the cereal while it’s still warm.
- Adjust the strawberry flavor – If you love extra tangy flavor, add more crushed freeze-dried strawberries!
Fun Variations & Add-Ins
- Chocolate Strawberry Puppy Chow – Add ½ cup white chocolate chips or mini chocolate chips to the mix.
- Lemon Shortcake Puppy Chow – Mix in zested lemon peel for a citrusy twist.
- Valentine’s Edition – Add pink and red sprinkles for a festive touch.
- Extra Fruity Version – Toss in freeze-dried raspberries or blueberries for a mixed berry flavor.
FAQs (From My Kitchen to Yours)
Q: Can I use fresh strawberries instead of freeze-dried?
A: No, fresh strawberries contain moisture and will make the puppy chow soggy. Stick to freeze-dried strawberries for the best texture.
Q: How do I store puppy chow?
A: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If it’s humid, store in the fridge to keep it crisp.
Q: Can I freeze puppy chow?
A: Yes! Store in a sealed bag or container in the freezer for up to 2 months. Let it thaw for a few minutes before eating.
Q: What if I don’t have Golden Oreos?
A: You can skip them or substitute with vanilla wafers, graham crackers, or shortbread cookies for the same sweet, buttery flavor.
Why You Need to Try This Strawberry Shortcake Puppy Chow
This Strawberry Shortcake Puppy Chow is a quick, fun, and totally delicious no-bake snack that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making it for a party, movie night, or just because, it’s guaranteed to disappear fast!
With its sweet, crunchy texture, creamy white chocolate coating, and tangy strawberry flavor, it’s everything you love about strawberry shortcake in snackable form.
Give it a try and let me know how it turns out! And if you put your own spin on it—maybe adding chocolate drizzle, sprinkles, or extra fruit flavors—I’d love to hear about it. Happy snacking!
How to Make Strawberry Shortcake Puppy Chow – A No-Bake Snack Everyone Loves
Ingredients
- 1 cup freeze-dried strawberries
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 4 cups Rice Chex cereal
- 1 cup white chocolate chips
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter and white chocolate chips together, stirring every 30 seconds until smooth.
- Stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.
- Add the freeze-dried strawberries and mix well.
- In a large bowl, add the Rice Chex cereal and pour the melted mixture over it. Gently fold until the cereal is evenly coated.
- Transfer the mixture to a large resealable bag, add the powdered sugar, and shake until well coated.
- Spread the coated puppy chow on a baking sheet to cool completely before serving.
Leave a Reply