Description
Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow is a delightful, no-bake snack mix that combines crunchy Rice Chex cereal coated in a creamy, white chocolate and cherry jam blend, dusted with powdered sugar and graham cracker crumbs, making it perfect for dessert cravings or party treats.
Ingredients
Scale
Cereal Base
- 6 cups Rice Chex cereal
Coating Mixture
- 1 cup white chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup cherry jam or preserves
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Topping
- 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 into a large mixing bowl and set aside to get ready 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 each time until the mixture becomes smooth and fully blended.
- Add Vanilla: Stir the vanilla extract into the melted mixture to enhance the flavor profile.
- Coat the Cereal: Pour the melted white chocolate and cherry mixture over the Rice Chex cereal. Gently toss the cereal to ensure every piece is evenly coated with the creamy mixture.
- Dust with Powdered Sugar: In a separate small bowl, mix together the powdered sugar and graham cracker crumbs. Sprinkle this mixture over the coated cereal and toss again to cover the cereal pieces evenly with the sweet, crumbly dusting.
- Add Cherries (Optional): If using, fold in chopped dried cherries to introduce extra bursts of fruity sweetness.
- Set and Serve: Spread the coated cereal mixture onto a sheet of parchment paper and allow it to set for 15 to 20 minutes at room temperature. Once set, serve and enjoy this deliciously sweet treat.
Notes
- Use full-fat cream cheese for the best creamy texture in the coating.
- Microwave times may vary; stir thoroughly between intervals to avoid burning the white chocolate.
- For a more intense cherry flavor, substitute cherry preserves with black cherry jam.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
- Chopped dried cherries are optional but highly recommended for added texture and flavor contrast.
