Strawberry Shortcake Puppy Chow is a fun, no-bake snack made with cereal, strawberry flavor, and a sweet powdered sugar coating. It’s quick to make, easy to store, and perfect for parties, holidays, or a simple sweet treat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This puppy chow has a bright strawberry flavor with a creamy white chocolate coating. It’s crunchy, sweet, and perfect for strawberry lovers who want something easy and fun without baking.
Ingredients
For the puppy chow
- 6 cups rice cereal squares
- 1½ cups white chocolate chips
- ½ cup freeze-dried strawberries, crushed into powder
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- ¼ cup strawberry cake mix (dry)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional add-ins
- Mini marshmallows
- White chocolate chunks
- Strawberry baking chips
Preparation Steps
Step 1: Melt the chocolate
Place white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth. Stir in vanilla extract.
Step 2: Coat the cereal
Add cereal to a large bowl. Pour melted white chocolate over the cereal and gently toss until evenly coated.
Step 3: Prepare coating
In a large zip-top bag, mix powdered sugar, crushed freeze-dried strawberries, and dry strawberry cake mix.
Step 4: Shake
Add coated cereal to the bag. Seal tightly and shake until all pieces are fully coated.
Step 5: Cool
Spread puppy chow on a parchment-lined baking sheet and let it set for 20–30 minutes before serving.
Variations
- Add Golden Oreos broken into pieces
- Use vanilla cake mix instead of strawberry for a lighter flavor
- Mix in Valentine or holiday sprinkles
- Add yogurt-covered raisins for texture
- Use gluten-free cereal if needed
Cooking Notes
- Make sure cereal is fully coated before adding sugar mixture
- Let chocolate cool slightly so coating sticks evenly
- Use freeze-dried strawberries for strong flavor without moisture
- Shake gently to avoid breaking the cereal
Serving Suggestions
- Serve in bowls for parties
- Package in small bags for gifts
- Add to dessert tables or snack boards
- Perfect for movie nights or kids’ treats
- Pair with hot chocolate or milk
Tips
- Store in an airtight container to keep it crunchy
- Let it fully set before storing
- Crush strawberries finely for even coating
- Double the recipe easily for crowds
Prep Time / Cooking Time / Total Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooling Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutritional Information (Approx.)
- Calories: 190 per serving
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Protein: 2g
- Fat: 7g
FAQs
Does puppy chow need refrigeration?
No, store it at room temperature in an airtight container.
How long does it last?
Up to 5 days when stored properly.
Can I skip the cake mix?
Yes, but it adds extra strawberry flavor.
Conclusion
Strawberry Shortcake Puppy Chow is an easy, colorful snack that’s full of strawberry flavor and crunch. It’s quick to make, fun to share, and perfect for any time you want a sweet no-bake treat.