Name: Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow: A Delicious & Easy Dessert Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 12 cups
Ingredients: 9 cups Rice Chex cereal; 1 cup white chocolate chips; 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1/4 cup cherry flavored gelatin powder (like Jell-O); 1/4 teaspoon salt; 4 ounces cream cheese, softened; 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, softened; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons milk; Maraschino cherries, chopped; Graham cracker crumbs; White chocolate shavings

Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow: Prepare to be utterly captivated by this irresistible twist on a classic snack! Imagine the sweet, tangy burst of cherry cheesecake swirled into the crunchy, chocolatey goodness of puppy chow. It's a flavor explosion that will have everyone reaching for more.

While puppy chow, also known as muddy buddies, doesn't have a long, storied history steeped in tradition, it has become a beloved staple at gatherings, parties, and holiday celebrations across the United States. Its simple, playful nature makes it a hit with both kids and adults. But this Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow takes things to a whole new level of decadence!

What makes this particular version so special? Well, beyond the inherent fun of puppy chow, the addition of cherry cheesecake flavor elevates it to a truly unforgettable treat. The creamy, slightly tart cheesecake element perfectly complements the rich chocolate and peanut butter, creating a harmonious balance of flavors. The powdered sugar coating adds a touch of sweetness and a delightful textural contrast. It's easy to make, incredibly addictive, and guaranteed to be the star of any snack table. Trust me, once you try this, you'll never look at puppy chow the same way again!

Ingredients:

For the Puppy Chow:

9 cups Rice Chex cereal
1 cup white chocolate chips
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1/4 cup cherry flavored gelatin powder (like Jell-O)
1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Cheesecake Coating:

4 ounces cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, softened
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups powdered sugar
2 tablespoons milk

Optional Toppings:

Maraschino cherries, chopped
Graham cracker crumbs
White chocolate shavings

Preparing the Puppy Chow Base

Measure out the cereal: First things first, grab a large bowl – and I mean *large*. You'll need plenty of room to toss everything together. Pour in those 9 cups of Rice Chex cereal. We want them nice and evenly distributed in the bowl, ready for their chocolatey bath.
Melt the white chocolate and butter: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the white chocolate chips and butter. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between each interval, until completely melted and smooth. Be careful not to overheat the chocolate, or it will seize up on you. Patience is key here! If you prefer, you can melt the chocolate and butter in a double boiler over simmering water. Just make sure the bottom of the bowl doesn't touch the water.
Combine the chocolate mixture with the cereal: Pour the melted white chocolate and butter mixture over the Rice Chex cereal. Gently fold the cereal into the chocolate until each piece is evenly coated. This is where that large bowl comes in handy – you don't want to crush the cereal!
Prepare the powdered sugar mixture: In a gallon-sized resealable bag, combine the powdered sugar, cherry gelatin powder, and salt. Seal the bag tightly and shake well to combine. This ensures that the cherry flavor and sweetness are evenly distributed.
Coat the cereal with the powdered sugar mixture: Add the chocolate-covered cereal to the bag with the powdered sugar mixture. Seal the bag tightly and shake vigorously until the cereal is completely coated. This can take a minute or two, so don't be afraid to really give it a good shake! Make sure every piece is covered in that sweet, cherry goodness.
Spread out to cool: Spread the puppy chow out in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This will prevent the pieces from sticking together and allow them to cool and set properly. Let it sit for about 15-20 minutes while you prepare the cheesecake coating.

Making the Cheesecake Coating

Cream together the cream cheese and butter: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Make sure your cream cheese and butter are truly softened – this will prevent any lumps in your coating.
Add the vanilla extract: Mix in the vanilla extract until well combined. The vanilla adds a lovely depth of flavor to the cheesecake coating.
Gradually add the powdered sugar: Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition. This will prevent the powdered sugar from flying everywhere.
Add the milk: Add the milk, one tablespoon at a time, until the frosting reaches a smooth and spreadable consistency. You may need slightly more or less milk depending on the humidity and the consistency of your cream cheese.

Combining Puppy Chow and Cheesecake Coating

Coat the puppy chow: Place the puppy chow back into the large bowl. Pour the cheesecake coating over the puppy chow. Gently fold the puppy chow into the cheesecake coating until each piece is evenly coated. Again, be gentle so you don't crush the cereal.
Second powdered sugar coating: Place the coated puppy chow back into the gallon-sized resealable bag. Add an additional 1/2 cup of powdered sugar to the bag. Seal the bag tightly and shake vigorously until the puppy chow is completely coated. This helps to prevent the puppy chow from being too sticky.
Spread out to set: Spread the puppy chow out in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This will prevent the pieces from sticking together and allow them to cool and set properly.

Adding Optional Toppings (Because Why Not?)

Sprinkle with toppings: While the cheesecake coating is still slightly wet, sprinkle the puppy chow with your desired toppings. Chopped maraschino cherries add a pop of color and extra cherry flavor. Graham cracker crumbs add a nice textural contrast. White chocolate shavings add even more decadence.
Let it set completely: Allow the puppy chow to set completely at room temperature for at least 30 minutes, or until the cheesecake coating is firm. This will prevent the pieces from sticking together when you store them.

Storage Instructions

Store the Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. If you live in a warm climate, you may want to store it in the refrigerator to prevent the cheesecake coating from melting.

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Puppy Chow

Use fresh ingredients: Using fresh ingredients, especially cream cheese and butter, will ensure the best flavor and texture.
Don't overheat the chocolate: Overheating the white chocolate can cause it to seize up and become grainy. Microwave in short intervals and stir frequently.
Adjust the sweetness to your liking: If you prefer a less sweet puppy chow, you can reduce the amount of powdered sugar in the recipe.
Get creative with the toppings: Feel free to experiment with different toppings, such as sprinkles, mini chocolate chips, or chopped nuts.
Make it ahead of time: Puppy chow is a great make-ahead treat. You can prepare it a day or two in advance and store it in an airtight container.

Variations

Chocolate Cherry Puppy Chow: Use chocolate Chex cereal instead of rice Chex cereal and add a tablespoon of cocoa powder to the powdered sugar mixture.
Strawberry Cheesecake Puppy Chow: Use strawberry flavored gelatin powder instead of cherry flavored gelatin powder.
Peanut Butter Cheesecake Puppy Chow: Add 1/2 cup of peanut butter to the melted white chocolate and butter mixture.

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser because it combines the classic flavors of puppy chow with the creamy, tangy goodness of cheesecake. The cherry gelatin powder adds a burst of fruity flavor, while the cheesecake coating provides a smooth and decadent finish. The optional toppings add extra texture and visual appeal. Plus, it's incredibly easy to make – even a novice baker can whip up a batch in no time!

Enjoy your delicious Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow!

Conclusion:

This Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow isn't just another snack mix; it's a flavor explosion that will have everyone begging for more! The tangy cream cheese powder perfectly complements the sweet cherry flavor, creating a symphony of deliciousness that's both addictive and satisfying. Seriously, if you're looking for a crowd-pleasing treat that's easy to make and guaranteed to disappear in minutes, this is it. I've made countless batches for parties, game nights, and even just a cozy night in, and it's always a hit. Why is this a must-try? Because it's the perfect balance of sweet, salty, and crunchy. The Chex cereal provides a satisfying base, while the melted white chocolate and cherry gelatin add a creamy, fruity sweetness. The cream cheese powder takes it to the next level, adding a tangy depth that elevates the entire experience. Plus, it's incredibly versatile!

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

* Elevate the Presentation: Serve this Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow in individual mason jars tied with a ribbon for a charming party favor. Or, layer it in a trifle bowl with whipped cream and fresh cherries for a stunning dessert centerpiece. * Make it Festive: For the holidays, use red and green sprinkles to add a festive touch. You could even use different colored cherry gelatin for a rainbow effect! * Add Some Crunch: Mix in some chopped pecans or walnuts for an extra layer of texture and nutty flavor. * Chocolate Lover's Dream: Drizzle some melted dark chocolate over the finished puppy chow for an even richer, more decadent treat. * Go Tropical: Substitute the cherry gelatin with pineapple or mango gelatin for a tropical twist. Add some shredded coconut for extra flavor and texture. * Spice it Up: A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can add a warm, comforting flavor to the mix. I truly believe this recipe is a winner, and I can't wait for you to try it! It's so simple to make, even the most novice baker can whip up a batch in no time. And the best part? You can customize it to your liking with different flavors and add-ins. So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, put on some music, and get ready to create a batch of this irresistible Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow. I promise you won't regret it! Once you've made it, I'd love to hear about your experience! Did you try any variations? What did your friends and family think? Share your photos and stories in the comments below. Let's spread the puppy chow love! I am confident that this will become a staple in your household, just as it has in mine. Happy snacking!