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

Scale

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

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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.