This yummy Fluffy Strawberry Shortcake Puppy Chow is a sweet treat made with crunchy cereal, powdered sugar, and strawberries. Perfect for munching on during movie night!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rice Cereal Squares: I use rice Chex because it gives a perfect crunch. You can substitute it with any other puffed cereal, like Crispix or even corn Chex, if you prefer a corn flavor.
White Chocolate Chips: They provide sweetness and creaminess. If you want a healthier option, you could use yogurt-covered raisins or chips. Just note that the flavor will change.
Strawberry Cake Mix: This is the star for the strawberry flavor! If you can’t find it, try using vanilla cake mix with some freeze-dried strawberry powder or a bit of regular sugar mixed with flavored jelly for fun.
Butter: I prefer unsalted butter, but if you’re out, coconut oil works too for a different flavor twist or to make it dairy-free.
Freeze-Dried Strawberries: They are optional but fun! You can skip them or use crushed nuts or sprinkles as an alternative for added texture.
How Do You Ensure Even Coating of the Cereal?
Coating the cereal evenly is key to getting the best flavor throughout. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start by pouring the melted white chocolate mixture over the cereal gently. It’s better to do this slowly.
- Use a spatula or a large spoon to fold the mixture carefully—not stir—so the cereal doesn’t break.
- Once coated, transfer the mixture into a zip-top bag with the dry powder mix. Make sure to seal the bag tightly before shaking.
- Shake gently but thoroughly to get a nice even coat without wasting any cereal.
By following these tips, you can create a delightful puppy chow that everyone will love!
How to Make Fluffy Strawberry Shortcake Puppy Chow
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Puppy Chow:
- 9 cups rice cereal squares (such as Chex)
- 1 cup white chocolate chips
- ½ cup strawberry cake mix (dry)
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder (optional, for extra flavor)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Freeze-dried strawberries (for garnish, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful treat will take about 15 minutes to prepare and another 30 minutes to cool. That’s just 15 minutes of fun kitchen time and then a short wait before you enjoy your sweet snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cereal:
Start by pouring the 9 cups of rice cereal squares into a large bowl. Set this aside for later, as we’ll be adding the yummy chocolate later on!
2. Melt the Chocolate:
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the cup of white chocolate chips and the 2 tablespoons of butter. Microwave the mixture in 30-second intervals. Remember to stir after each interval until the chocolate is completely melted and creamy. This usually takes about 1-2 minutes in total.
3. Mix in the Flavor:
Add the teaspoon of vanilla extract to your melted chocolate. Give it a good stir to mix everything together nicely. This will add a lovely flavor to your puppy chow!
4. Combine Chocolate and Cereal:
Now, pour the melted chocolate mixture over the rice cereal squares. Using a spatula or a big spoon, carefully fold the cereal into the chocolate until every piece is coated evenly. It’s okay if it gets a bit messy—this part is fun!
5. Prepare the Coating Mixture:
In a separate bowl, mix the strawberry cake mix and powdered sugar together. If you’re using cocoa powder for extra chocolatey goodness, add that in too. This will give our puppy chow a flavorful coating.
6. Coat the Cereal:
Grab a large zip-top bag and transfer your chocolate-coated cereal into it. Then, sprinkle the dry mixture over the cereal in the bag. Seal the bag tightly and give it a gentle shake. This will coat all the cereal nicely with the sweet mixture!
7. Cool and Set:
Spread the puppy chow out on a sheet of wax paper or a baking sheet. Let it cool and set for about 30 minutes. This will help it become nice and crisp!
8. Garnishing and Serving:
Once your puppy chow is cooled, you can sprinkle some freeze-dried strawberries on top if you like. Serve it in a bowl and enjoy this sweet treat whenever you want a delightful snack!
Can I Use a Different Type of Cereal?
Absolutely! While rice cereal squares are ideal for that classic texture, you can substitute with corn or wheat cereal if you prefer. Just make sure the cereal is crispy so it holds up well when coated in chocolate.
How Do I Store Puppy Chow Leftovers?
Store leftover puppy chow in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. Avoid refrigeration as it can cause the coating to become soggy. Keep it in a cool, dry place to maintain its crunch!
Can I Make This Without the Strawberry Cake Mix?
Yes, you can! If you don’t have strawberry cake mix, you can simply replace it with an equal amount of powdered sugar or even use vanilla cake mix for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind the strawberry flavor will be less pronounced.
How Can I Make This Gluten-Free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, ensure you use certified gluten-free rice cereal. The other ingredients like white chocolate chips and dry cake mix can usually be found in gluten-free versions as well—just check the labels!
