Q: Can I make Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow without cream cheese?

A: While cream cheese provides the signature cheesecake flavor, you can substitute with an additional 2 tablespoons of butter plus 1 teaspoon of cheesecake-flavored pudding mix. However, the authentic tangy flavor will be less pronounced. For best results, keep the cream cheese—it's what makes this recipe special!

Q: How do I prevent my no-bake puppy chow from getting soggy?

A: The key to maintaining crunchiness is proper storage and ensuring the chocolate coating has completely cooled before adding powdered sugar. Always store in an airtight container away from humidity. If you live in a particularly humid climate, adding a silica gel packet (like those found in vitamin bottles) to your storage container can help absorb excess moisture.

Q: Can I use fresh cherries instead of dried cherries in this recipe?

A: Unfortunately, fresh cherries introduce too much moisture and will make your puppy chow soggy. Stick with dried cherries, freeze-dried cherries, or dried cranberries for best results. The concentrated flavor of dried fruit also works better in this sweet snack mix.

Q: What's the difference between puppy chow and muddy buddies?

A: They're essentially the same thing! "Puppy chow" is the generic term, while "Muddy Buddies" is the trademarked name used by General Mills for their Chex cereal recipes. Both refer to cereal coated in chocolate or white chocolate mixture, then tossed in powdered sugar. Regional preferences determine which name people use.

Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow: 7 Irresistible Steps for Perfect Results

Name: Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 12 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 9 cups (255g) rice cereal squares (such as Rice Chex); 12 oz (340g) white chocolate chips or white melting wafers; 4 oz (113g) cream cheese, softened to room temperature; 3 tablespoons (42g) unsalted butter; 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon almond extract (optional); 2 cups (240g) powdered sugar; 1/4 cup (30g) freeze-dried strawberries or raspberries, crushed into powder; 1 tablespoon (8g) powdered cream cheese (optional); 1 cup (140g) dried cherries, roughly chopped; 1/2 cup (85g) white chocolate chips (for mixing in); 1/4 cup (30g) freeze-dried cherries, broken into pieces (optional)

Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow Recipe (Easy No-Bake in 15 Minutes!)

This easy Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow combines white chocolate, cream cheese, and dried cherries for an irresistible no-bake sweet snack mix. Ready in just 15 minutes with minimal cleanup, this cheesecake-flavored puppy chow features a pink powdered coating and addictive crunch that makes it perfect for parties, gifts, or everyday snacking.

Author: Hana Martin
Prep Time: 15
Total Time: 45
Yield: 12 1x
Category: Dessert, Snack
Method: No-Bake
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale

9 cups (255g) rice cereal squares (such as Rice Chex)

12 oz (340g) white chocolate chips or white melting wafers

4 oz (113g) cream cheese, softened to room temperature

3 tablespoons (42g) unsalted butter

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

1/4 teaspoon almond extract (optional)

2 cups (240g) powdered sugar

1/4 cup (30g) freeze-dried strawberries or raspberries, crushed into powder

1 tablespoon (8g) powdered cream cheese (optional)

1 cup (140g) dried cherries, roughly chopped

1/2 cup (85g) white chocolate chips (for mixing in)

1/4 cup (30g) freeze-dried cherries, broken into pieces (optional)

Instructions

1. Measure 9 cups rice cereal squares into a large mixing bowl and set aside. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine white chocolate chips, softened cream cheese, and butter. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until completely smooth (1.5-2 minutes total). Do not overheat.

3. Stir vanilla extract and almond extract (if using) into the melted white chocolate mixture until fully incorporated.

4. Pour the warm white chocolate mixture over the rice cereal. Using a rubber spatula, gently fold and toss until every piece becomes evenly coated. Work quickly but gently to avoid crushing cereal.

5. In a gallon-sized resealable bag, combine powdered sugar, crushed freeze-dried berries, and powdered cream cheese (if using). Seal and shake to blend into uniform pink powder.

6. Transfer chocolate-coated cereal into the bag with powdered sugar. Seal tightly, removing excess air, then shake vigorously for 30-60 seconds until every piece gets thoroughly coated.

7. Spread coated puppy chow onto prepared baking sheet in single layer. Sprinkle chopped dried cherries, additional white chocolate chips, and freeze-dried cherry pieces over top. Gently toss to combine.

8. Allow to cool completely at room temperature for 30 minutes (or refrigerate for 15 minutes). Break apart any large clusters. Store in airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.

Notes

Room temperature cream cheese blends smoothly – leave on counter 1 hour before starting.

Use quality white chocolate chips (containing cocoa butter, not vegetable oil) for best melting and flavor.

Cool completely before powdering – warm coating will absorb powdered sugar instead of creating the signature dry finish.

For gluten-free version, use certified gluten-free rice cereal squares.

Freezes beautifully up to 3 months – thaw 30 minutes at room temperature before serving.

Package in clear bags or mason jars for adorable gifts.

Add 1 teaspoon lemon zest for lemon-cherry variation.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 385
Sugar: 45g
Sodium: 180mg
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 63g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 3g
Cholesterol: 18mg

Keywords: cherry cheesecake puppy chow, no-bake puppy chow, sweet snack mix, cherry white chocolate chow, cheesecake-flavored puppy chow, muddy buddies, puppy chow recipe, white chocolate snack mix

Find it online: https://www.hanaeats.com/cherry-cheesecake-puppy-chow/