This fun treat mixes crunchy chex with fluffy marshmallows, yummy strawberries, and a sweet dusting of powdered sugar. It’s like a party for your taste buds!
I love how easy it is to make! Just toss everything together, and you have a delightful snack. Perfect for sharing, or not—no judgment here if you keep it to yourself! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rice Chex Cereal: This is the base of your puppy chow. If you can’t find Rice Chex, you can use any gluten-free cereal or even corn Chex. Just make sure it’s a similar shape to keep the texture right.
White Chocolate Chips: I love using white chocolate for its sweetness. If you prefer, you can switch to milk chocolate or dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor. Just keep in mind that dark chocolate will overpower the strawberry flavor a bit.
Creamy Peanut Butter: I find creamy works best for a smooth mix. You can substitute with almond butter or sunbutter if you want a nut-free option. Each gives a different taste but still delicious!
Strawberry Cake Mix: This is key for that delightful strawberry flavor. If you don’t have strawberry cake mix, you can use vanilla cake mix and add some freeze-dried strawberry powder or a few drops of strawberry extract instead.
Powdered Sugar: It’s essential for the sweetness and final texture. If you’re looking to cut down on sugar, you could use a sugar alternative or leave it out for a less sweet version, but you’ll miss the signature coating crunch!
How Do You Melt Chocolate and Peanut Butter Smoothly?
Melted chocolate mixed with peanut butter is where the magic begins! Here’s how to do it without burning the chocolate:
- Use a microwave-safe bowl to avoid any melting mishaps.
- Start by microwaving the mixture in 30-second intervals. Stir after each interval until completely melted. This helps prevent burning.
- If you want to stay in control, you can also use a double boiler. Just simmer water and melt the ingredients in a bowl on top. It’ll take a bit longer, but you can watch it closely!
Don’t rush this step; if your chocolate gets too hot, it can become grainy. Stir until smooth for the best result!
How to Make Fluffy Strawberry Shortcake Puppy Chow
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 9 cups Rice Chex cereal
- 1 cup white chocolate chips
- ½ cup creamy peanut butter
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup strawberry cake mix (plus more for coating)
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- Optional: sprinkles for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful puppy chow recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare. You’ll need a little extra time to let it cool before serving, but the waiting is well worth it for this delicious treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cereal:
Start by placing 9 cups of Rice Chex cereal into a large bowl. This will be the base of your crunchy treat, so set it aside while you prepare the chocolate mixture.
2. Melt the Chocolate Mixture:
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine 1 cup of white chocolate chips and ½ cup of creamy peanut butter. Microwave the bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring after each interval until everything is smooth and melted. Be careful not to overheat!
3. Mix in the Vanilla:
Once melted, add ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract to the chocolate mixture. Stir it well to make sure the vanilla is evenly mixed in. This adds a lovely flavor to your puppy chow!
4. Coat the Cereal:
Pour the smooth melted chocolate mixture over the Rice Chex cereal. Using a spatula or a spoon, gently stir the cereal until all the pieces are coated evenly. This step is crucial for that delicious flavor in every bite!
5. Add the Cake Mix:
Now it’s time to sprinkle 1 cup of strawberry cake mix over the coated Rice Chex. Toss the mixture gently to coat the cereal thoroughly with the cake mix for an added burst of strawberry flavor.
6. Add the Powdered Sugar:
Transfer your mixture into a large resealable bag or a bowl. Sprinkle ½ cup of powdered sugar on top. If you’re using a bag, seal it tightly and shake gently to coat the cereal with sugar. If using a bowl, stir it carefully to ensure even coverage.
7. Cool & Serve:
Allow your fluffy puppy chow to cool completely before serving. If desired, garnish with additional strawberry cake mix or colorful sprinkles to make it even more festive!
8. Store:
Enjoy your treat immediately or store it in an airtight container for up to one week. This makes a fun snack for any occasion!
Your Fluffy Strawberry Shortcake Puppy Chow is now ready to enjoy—grab a handful and dig in!
Can I Substitute the White Chocolate Chips?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for a different flavor, you can use milk chocolate or dark chocolate chips. Just keep in mind that the flavor will change slightly. Make sure to adjust the melting time as needed since different chocolates can behave differently in the microwave.
What If I Don’t Have Rice Chex Cereal?
No worries! You can use any crispy rice cereal or even popcorn for a fun twist. If you opt for a different cereal, ensure it has a similar texture to maintain that crunchy bite!
How Should I Store Leftover Puppy Chow?
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. Just make sure it’s completely cool before sealing to avoid moisture buildup, which can make it soggy!
Can I Add Other Ingredients?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in mini marshmallows, dried strawberries, or nuts for added texture and flavor. Just be cautious not to add too much, as it might affect the coating on the cereal!
