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Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow Recipe

4.5 from 116 reviews

Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow is a delicious and easy-to-make sweet snack featuring crispy rice cereal coated in a creamy blend of white chocolate, cream cheese, and cherry pie filling, dusted with powdered sugar and topped with graham cracker crumbs for an authentic cheesecake flavor.

Ingredients

Scale

Base

  • 5 cups rice cereal squares

Cheesecake Coating

  • 1 cup white chocolate chips
  • 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup cherry pie filling
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Topping

  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1/2 cup graham cracker crumbs

Instructions

  1. Prepare Cereal: Measure 5 cups of rice cereal squares into a large mixing bowl, ensuring an even base for the coating.
  2. Melt Chocolate Mixture: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine 1 cup white chocolate chips and 1/4 cup softened cream cheese. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until the mixture is smooth and fully blended.
  3. Add Cherry and Vanilla: Mix in 1/2 cup cherry pie filling and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract into the white chocolate mixture until well combined to achieve a creamy cherry cheesecake flavor.
  4. Coat Cereal: Pour the cherry cheesecake mixture over the cereal squares and gently fold with a spatula until every piece is evenly coated.
  5. Coat with Powdered Sugar: Transfer the coated cereal mix into a resealable plastic bag. Add 1 cup powdered sugar, seal the bag, and shake thoroughly to coat the cereal thoroughly.
  6. Cool and Set: Spread the coated cereal evenly on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Allow it to cool completely at room temperature so the coating sets firmly.
  7. Add Graham Cracker Topping: Once cooled, sprinkle 1/2 cup graham cracker crumbs over the cereal, gently mixing or topping for an authentic cheesecake finish and extra texture.

Notes

  • Use full-fat cream cheese at room temperature for the smoothest coating.
  • Microwave times may vary; stir frequently to avoid burning the white chocolate.
  • Allow the puppy chow to cool completely before adding graham cracker crumbs to prevent sogginess.
  • Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days for best freshness.
  • For a festive twist, substitute cherry pie filling with other fruit pie fillings like blueberry or strawberry.

Keywords: cherry cheesecake puppy chow, white chocolate snack, rice cereal dessert, no-bake treats, puppy chow recipe, cherry dessert