If you’re on the lookout for a sweet, crunchy snack that feels like a slice of dessert in every bite, the Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow Recipe is about to become your new favorite go-to treat. This delightful mix combines the creamy tang of cheesecake with the tart burst of cherries, all wrapped around crunchy Rice Chex cereal pieces. It’s like having a party in your mouth with minimal effort—perfect for sharing with friends or keeping all to yourself when that sweet craving hits hard. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll wonder how you ever survived without it!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity — every ingredient plays a starring role in creating that perfect balance of flavors and textures. From the crisp cereal base to the luscious white chocolate and cherry jam coating, each component is carefully chosen to elevate the classic puppy chow experience to something downright irresistible.
- 6 cups Rice Chex cereal: The crunchy canvas that soaks up all the cherry cheesecake goodness without getting soggy.
- 1 cup white chocolate chips: Melts into a creamy coating that adds luscious sweetness and richness.
- 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened: Infuses that unmistakable cheesecake tang and silky texture.
- 1/4 cup cherry jam or preserves: Brings juicy tartness and gorgeous bright color to the mix.
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors with a warm, aromatic note.
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar: Adds a snowy dusting of sweetness and helps the coating stick.
- 1/4 cup graham cracker crumbs: Offers a subtle crunch and gives the puppy chow a familiar cheesecake crust vibe.
- 1/4 cup chopped dried cherries (optional): For a chewy burst of real cherry goodness in every handful.
How to Make Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cereal
Start by placing the Rice Chex cereal into a large mixing bowl. This is your crunchy base, so make sure you have plenty of space to toss it all around once coated. Setting it aside here makes it easy to pour the luscious coating over shortly.
Step 2: Melt the Coating
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the white chocolate chips, softened cream cheese, and cherry jam. Microwave the mixture in 20-second bursts, stirring between each to ensure a smooth, velvety coating forms. This blend is where the magic happens—the creamy tang from the cream cheese and the sweet-tart kiss from the cherry jam transform simple chocolate into something extraordinary.
Step 3: Add Vanilla
Once the coating is smooth, stir in the vanilla extract. This small step adds depth and warmth, rounding out the cherry and cheesecake flavors beautifully. It’s like the secret handshake that makes this recipe uniquely delicious.
Step 4: Coat the Cereal
Pour the melted cherry cheesecake mixture over the Rice Chex cereal. Gently toss the cereal to coat every piece evenly without breaking the crunch. Take your time here to make sure every bite delivers that perfect sweet, creamy coating.
Step 5: Dust with Powdered Sugar and Graham Cracker Crumbs
Mix the powdered sugar and graham cracker crumbs in a small bowl. Sprinkle this mixture over your coated cereal and toss gently once more. This dusting adds a lovely sweetness while mimicking the classic graham cracker crust that you know and love in any cheesecake.
Step 6: Add Chopped Dried Cherries (Optional)
If you want to take your puppy chow to the next level, fold in some chopped dried cherries now. They give intermittent bursts of chewiness and tang that burst like little cherry explosions with every bite. Totally optional, but absolutely worth it!
Step 7: Let it Set
Spread your Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow out on parchment paper and allow it to rest for 15 to 20 minutes. This step helps the coating firm up just right, so every piece is perfectly crisp and ready to enjoy.
How to Serve Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow Recipe
Garnishes
While this puppy chow is amazing on its own, feel free to jazz it up with a sprinkle of extra graham cracker crumbs or a few whole dried cherries on top. These simple garnishes add visual appeal and a little textural contrast perfect for entertaining or gifting.
Side Dishes
This sweet snack pairs beautifully with a tall glass of cold milk or a cup of hot tea. It’s also fantastic alongside fruit platters or even a creamy yogurt dip, making it a versatile treat for any gathering or cozy night in.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming presentation, serve your Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow in a decorative bowl or fill small cellophane bags tied with a ribbon to give as thoughtful, homemade gifts. You can also layer it in mason jars with bits of fresh cherries and whipped cream to create cheesecake parfaits inspired by this recipe!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow in an airtight container at room temperature. It stays fresh and crunchy for up to a week, making it a perfect snack to enjoy whenever the mood strikes.
Freezing
If you want to save it for longer, freezing works like a charm. Store the puppy chow in a tightly sealed freezer bag and freeze for up to three months. When you’re ready to indulge, just let it thaw at room temperature—it’ll taste just as amazing as the day you made it.
Reheating
This recipe is best enjoyed as-is—no reheating necessary! If the coating softens, just give it a quick toss to refresh the texture. Since it’s not cooked like traditional desserts, warming might melt the coating and change your beloved texture.
FAQs
Can I use another type of cereal instead of Rice Chex?
Absolutely! While Rice Chex is preferred for its light crunch and ability to hold coatings well, you can try other similar cereals like Corn Chex or Wheat Chex. Just keep in mind that texture and flavor might vary slightly.
Is cream cheese necessary in this recipe?
The cream cheese is what gives this puppy chow its signature cheesecake tang and creamy texture. Omitting it will change the flavor profile quite a bit, so if you’re after that true cherry cheesecake taste, it’s best not to skip.
Can I substitute cherry jam with fresh cherries?
Using fresh cherries instead of jam won’t provide the same intensity of sweetness or coating consistency. The jam acts as both flavor and binding agent, so fresh cherries alone won’t work as a substitute in this recipe.
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Try using dairy-free cream cheese and white chocolate chips made from coconut or other plant-based ingredients. Just check labels carefully to maintain the rich, creamy elements without dairy.
Is this recipe suitable for kids?
Definitely! This is a kid-friendly snack that’s fun to make together and enjoyable to eat. Just keep an eye on portions because it’s delightfully sweet and rich, perfect for a special treat.
Final Thoughts
You really can’t go wrong with the Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow Recipe. It’s a fuss-free, crowd-pleasing snack that brings a smile to every face lucky enough to try it. Whether you’re sharing it at a party, packing it for a road trip, or simply indulging on a quiet evening, this recipe turns simple ingredients into a crave-worthy delight. So go ahead—whip up a batch today and prepare to fall in love with your new favorite sweet treat!
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Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 minutes
- Total Time: 12 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Snack
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow is a delicious, no-bake snack mix featuring Rice Chex cereal coated in a luscious white chocolate, cream cheese, and cherry jam blend. Finished with vanilla, powdered sugar, graham cracker crumbs, and optional dried cherries, this sweet treat combines the flavors of cherry cheesecake in a crunchy, easy-to-make snack perfect for sharing or snacking anytime.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 6 cups Rice Chex cereal
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup chopped dried cherries (optional)
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup white chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup cherry jam or preserves
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the Cereal: Place the Rice Chex cereal in a large mixing bowl and set aside to ensure the cereal stays crisp for coating.
- Melt the Coating: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine white chocolate chips, softened cream cheese, and cherry jam. Microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring thoroughly after each interval until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Add Vanilla: Stir in the vanilla extract to enhance the flavor profile of the coating mixture.
- Coat the Cereal: Pour the melted chocolate and cherry mixture over the Rice Chex cereal. Gently toss with a spatula or spoon until all cereal pieces are evenly coated.
- Dust with Powdered Sugar: In a separate small bowl, mix the powdered sugar and graham cracker crumbs together. Sprinkle this mixture over the coated cereal and toss gently to coat all pieces with the sugary coating.
- Add Cherries (Optional): Fold in chopped dried cherries to add bursts of fruity sweetness and texture to the treat.
- Set and Serve: Spread the coated cereal mixture evenly on parchment paper and allow it to set for 15 to 20 minutes at room temperature before serving. This helps the coating firm up for optimal texture.
Notes
- You can substitute cherry jam with any berry preserves for a different flavor twist.
- Ensure cream cheese is softened for easier melting and mixing with white chocolate chips.
- Use parchment paper to prevent sticking when letting the mixture set.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- To make it gluten-free, ensure the graham cracker crumbs are certified gluten-free.
