Strawberry Shortcake Puppy Chow Recipe

Strawberry Shortcake Puppy Chow Recipe

The Ultimate Sweet and Crunchy Snack with a Strawberry Twist

Looking for a quick, no-bake dessert that’s colorful, fun, and irresistibly delicious? This Strawberry Shortcake Puppy Chow (also known as Strawberry Muddy Buddies) is the perfect sweet snack for parties, holidays, or just a family movie night. It’s crunchy, sweet, and packed with the fruity flavor of strawberries paired with creamy white chocolate. Best of all—it’s ready in just 15 minutes!

Ingredients

• 5 cups Rice Chex cereal
• 1 box strawberry Jell-O mix (large size)
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 ½ cups white chocolate chips
• ¼ cup unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup freeze-dried strawberries, crushed (optional, for extra flavor and decoration)

Step-by-Step Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Base

Place 5 cups of Rice Chex cereal in a large mixing bowl. This is your crunchy base, so make sure the bowl is large enough to toss everything later.

Step 2: Melt the Chocolate

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine white chocolate chips and butter. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each one, until smooth and creamy.

Step 3: Add Flavor

Stir in the vanilla extract to enhance the flavor of the chocolate coating.

Step 4: Coat the Cereal

Pour the melted chocolate mixture over the Rice Chex cereal. Gently toss with a spatula until all pieces are coated evenly.

Step 5: Mix the Sweet Strawberry Coating

In a separate bowl, whisk together the strawberry Jell-O powder and powdered sugar.

Step 6: Shake and Coat

Transfer the coated cereal into a large resealable plastic bag. Add the strawberry sugar mixture, seal the bag, and shake until every piece is covered in a beautiful pink strawberry coating.

Step 7: Cool and Finish

Spread the coated cereal onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Let it cool and harden completely. For an extra strawberry punch, sprinkle freeze-dried strawberries on top.

Once cooled, transfer to an airtight container.

Prep and Storage

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Servings: 8 servings

Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate or freeze it.

Tips for the Best Strawberry Shortcake Puppy Chow

1. Use quality chocolate – The better the white chocolate, the creamier and richer the flavor.
2. Don’t overheat chocolate – Melt it slowly in the microwave or use a double boiler to avoid burning.
3. Mix gently – Rice Chex breaks easily, so stir carefully to keep the cereal crunchy and whole.
4. Make it festive – Add colorful sprinkles for birthdays, Valentine’s Day, or baby showers.
5. Gift idea – Pack in mason jars or treat bags for a homemade edible gift.

Variations

• Berry Blast: Use raspberry or cherry Jell-O instead of strawberry.
• Chocolate Lover’s Twist: Drizzle melted milk chocolate or dark chocolate on top after coating.
• Extra Crunch: Add mini marshmallows, pretzels, or crushed vanilla cookies.

FAQ

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! Make it the day before, and store it in an airtight container. It stays fresh for up to 5 days.

Q: Do I have to use Rice Chex?
No, you can substitute with Corn Chex, Crispix, or any plain cereal that has a crunchy texture.

Q: Can I make it healthier?
You can reduce the powdered sugar slightly or use a sugar substitute, but the texture and flavor will change a little.

Q: Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Absolutely! Kids love the pink color and fruity flavor—it’s a guaranteed hit at playdates and school parties.

Final Thoughts

This Strawberry Shortcake Puppy Chow is the kind of snack that disappears quickly at any gathering. It’s colorful, fun, and bursting with strawberry sweetness. Whether you’re hosting a party, need a quick treat for kids, or simply want a sweet midnight snack, this recipe is a winner every single time.