Description
Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow is a delightful and easy-to-make sweet snack featuring crispy Rice Chex cereal coated in a smooth cherry cheesecake-flavored white chocolate mixture, dusted with powdered sugar and graham cracker crumbs, and optionally mixed with chopped dried cherries for an extra fruity touch. Perfect for parties, a snack, or dessert.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 6 cups Rice Chex cereal
- 1 cup white chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup cherry jam or preserves
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Coating and Toppings
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup chopped dried cherries (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Cereal: Place the Rice Chex cereal in a large mixing bowl and set aside to prepare for coating.
- Melt the Coating: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the white chocolate chips, softened cream cheese, and cherry jam. Microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring thoroughly between each, until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy with no lumps.
- Add Vanilla: Stir in the vanilla extract to enhance the overall flavor of the coating mixture.
- Coat the Cereal: Pour the melted cherry cheesecake mixture over the Rice Chex cereal. Gently toss with a spatula or spoon to ensure every piece is evenly coated with the flavorful mixture.
- Dust with Powdered Sugar: In a separate small bowl, mix together the powdered sugar and graham cracker crumbs. Sprinkle this dry mixture evenly over the coated cereal and toss gently to cover all pieces, adding a sweet and crunchy finish.
- Add Cherries (Optional): Fold in the chopped dried cherries to provide bursts of fruity sweetness and extra texture to your puppy chow.
- Set and Serve: Spread the coated cereal mixture onto a sheet of parchment paper in an even layer. Allow it to set at room temperature for 15-20 minutes so the coating firms up before serving. Enjoy as a delicious snack or dessert!
Notes
- You can substitute cherry jam with other fruit preserves like raspberry or strawberry for different flavors.
- Make sure to soften the cream cheese to avoid lumps and ensure the coating melts smoothly.
- For easier cleanup, use parchment paper or wax paper when spreading the mixture to set.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
- Adding chopped nuts like almonds or pecans can add extra crunch if desired.
