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Turn plain Chex cereal into a mouthwatering snack that brings cherry cheesecake flavors to every crispy handful. Mixing the sweetness from white chocolate with zesty cherry and smooth cheesecake notes, this quick treat puts a fun spin on classic puppy chow. After trying dozens of batches to get it just right, it's now the #1 snack everyone asks me to bring.
I brought this to a friend's movie gathering last Saturday, and the bowl was empty before we even pressed play. It's funny how the easiest treats often make the biggest impression.
Key Ingredients
- Chex Cereal: Either rice or corn versions work great
- White Chocolate Chips: Gives that silky, rich coating
- Cherry Gelatin Mix: Delivers taste and gorgeous pink color
- Cheesecake Pudding Mix: Adds that classic zingy flavor
- Dried Cherries: Gives pops of authentic fruit taste
- Powdered Sugar: Creates the perfect outer layer
Step-by-Step Cooking Guide
- Getting Ready:
- Set up your area with clean, dry tools and cover a baking sheet with parchment. Measure everything ahead of time. Moving quickly once your chocolate melts is crucial for success.
- Melting Your Chocolate:
- Put white chocolate chips and butter in a bowl safe for microwaving. Warm in quick intervals, mixing between each, until totally smooth. This slow approach stops the chocolate from getting grainy.
- Mixing It All:
- Slowly blend the cherry-chocolate mix with the cereal using a flexible spatula. Be gentle to coat everything without crushing the pieces. You want even coverage while keeping the cereal intact.
- Adding The Sugar Mix:
- Mix powdered sugar with cheesecake pudding in a big ziplock bag. Add your coated cereal bit by bit, shaking carefully for even coating. Don't stuff the bag - working with smaller amounts gets better results.
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I first came up with this recipe when I wanted to surprise a friend who can't get enough of cherry cheesecake and snack mixes. It's amazing what happens when you mix favorite flavors in unexpected ways.
Watching Your Heat
Getting this treat right really comes down to chocolate temperature. If it's too warm, your cereal gets mushy; too cool and it won't stick properly. Try coating just one piece first as a test before doing the whole batch.
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Keeping It Fresh
Store at room temp in an airtight container for up to seven days. When giving as gifts, use mason jars with secure lids. The biggest enemy is moisture in the air, which can make your crispy treat go soft.
Ways To Switch It Up
Put your own stamp on this snack by trying these tweaks:
- Switch to other gelatin flavors
- Swap in different pudding types
- Try other dried fruit options
- Toss in some nuts or shredded coconut
- Combine dark and white chocolate
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Wrapping Up
This Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow brings together beloved dessert flavors in a fun, snackable form. Every handful gives you all the joy of cherry cheesecake that you can take anywhere. Whether you're throwing a party or just want something sweet, this mix shows that the tastiest treats often come from getting creative with familiar favorites.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I swap flavors for the gelatin?
- Absolutely! Try raspberry or strawberry for different tastes.
- → How long can I store it?
- If sealed in an airtight container, it’ll stay good for up to two weeks.
- → Is milk chocolate a good replacement?
- While milk chocolate works, white chocolate pairs best with cherry flavors.
- → Why the name puppy chow?
- It’s named for its funny resemblance to dog food pieces.
- → Can I leave out the dried cherries?
- You can! It’s still tasty without them.