Name: Easy Strawberry Shortcake Puppy Chow
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-487923H49M18S
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 6 cups rice cereal; 1 cup white chocolate chips; 1/4 cup strawberry flavored Jello mix (or strawberry gelatin); 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1/2 cup butter; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; Pinch of salt

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If you’re looking for a sweet, easy treat to satisfy your cravings, this Easy Strawberry Shortcake Puppy Chow is the perfect recipe! With a mix of crunchy cereal coated in a strawberry and white chocolate blend, it’s a fun, irresistible snack. I love how it brings the taste of strawberry shortcake into a simple, no-bake treat that’s ready in minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I absolutely adore this recipe because it combines all the elements I love in a dessert – the creamy sweetness of white chocolate, the tangy flavor of strawberry, and that crispy crunch from the cereal. It’s a delightful combination that’s not only tasty but also super easy to make. Whether I’m serving it at a party, giving it as a gift, or enjoying it as a personal snack, it never disappoints!

It’s also a no-bake recipe, which makes it ideal for those hot days when I don’t want to turn on the oven. The ingredients are simple, and I don’t need any fancy kitchen tools – just a couple of mixing bowls and a spoon! And it’s so customizable – I can always add in a little extra of whatever flavor I’m in the mood for.

Ingredients

6 cups rice cereal
1 cup white chocolate chips
1/4 cup strawberry flavored Jello mix (or strawberry gelatin)
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1/2 cup butter
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

In a large bowl, measure out the rice cereal and set it aside.
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter and white chocolate chips together in the microwave. I like to do this in 30-second intervals, stirring each time until smooth.
Once melted, add in the strawberry gelatin, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir to combine.
Pour the melted mixture over the rice cereal. Gently toss until all the cereal is coated in the mixture.
In a separate large zip-top bag or a bowl, combine the powdered sugar and the strawberry-coated cereal. Seal the bag and shake it up to coat the cereal evenly with the powdered sugar.
Spread the finished puppy chow out on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to let it cool and set.
Once it’s cooled, I like to store it in an airtight container, and it’s ready to enjoy!

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 8 servings, depending on how generously you portion it out. It takes about 15 minutes to prep and another 15 minutes for it to cool down and set before serving. It’s one of those treats that’s super quick to whip up when you’re in the mood for something sweet and crunchy.

Variations

For a richer strawberry flavor, I sometimes add some freeze-dried strawberries to the mix for extra crunch and sweetness.
If you’re a chocolate lover, you can mix in a little bit of dark or milk chocolate chips along with the white chocolate.
To make this recipe gluten-free, just use certified gluten-free rice cereal.

Storage/Reheating

I store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature. It stays fresh for about 3-4 days. There’s no need to reheat – just grab a handful and enjoy! If it’s particularly warm out, I’ll keep it in the fridge for a slightly firmer texture.

FAQs

Can I use another type of cereal for this recipe?

Absolutely! While rice cereal is traditional, you could use corn chex, crispy rice, or even a mix of cereals for some variety.

How can I make this recipe dairy-free?

To make it dairy-free, use a dairy-free white chocolate alternative and swap the butter for a dairy-free butter substitute.

Can I freeze puppy chow for later?

Yes! You can store it in an airtight container or bag in the freezer for up to a month. Just let it thaw at room temperature before enjoying it.

What’s the best way to make sure the cereal gets coated evenly?

I find that tossing the mixture in a large zip-top bag helps coat the cereal more evenly. Just seal the bag and shake it until the cereal is well-covered with the coating!

Can I add other flavors to this recipe?

Definitely! You could try adding some vanilla pudding mix, other flavored gelatins, or even mix in some mini marshmallows for extra texture.

Conclusion

This Easy Strawberry Shortcake Puppy Chow is a fun, sweet treat that’s super easy to make and perfect for satisfying my snack cravings. The combination of flavors is a twist on the classic shortcake, and it’s sure to be a hit with anyone who tries it. Whether you’re making it for a party, a gift, or just for yourself, it’s a recipe I always come back to when I want something quick, delicious, and totally satisfying.