Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow is a delightful no-bake snack mix that combines the tangy flavor of cheesecake, the sweetness of cherries, and the irresistible crunch of Rice Chex cereal. Each piece is coated in a creamy white chocolate blend, tossed in a flavorful powdered sugar mixture, and finished with freeze-dried cherries for a burst of fruity goodness. It’s perfect for parties, holiday treats, or casual snacking, and it’s easy enough to whip up in less than an hour.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bursting with flavor: Cherry, vanilla, and cheesecake flavors all come together in a single addictive snack.

• Quick to make: With no baking required, you can prepare it in under 45 minutes.

• Perfect for any occasion: Great for gifting, serving at parties, or enjoying at home.

• Customizable: Swap out the cake mix or toppings to suit your preferences.

• Fun texture: A mix of crunchy cereal, creamy chocolate, and chewy cherries.

• Kid-friendly and fun to make: Let the kids help shake the bag or drizzle the cream cheese.

• Optional richness: Add a cheesecake drizzle to make it extra decadent.

• Stores well: Keeps fresh in an airtight container for several days.

• Great for holidays: Bright red color and sweet flavor make it festive and fun.

• No oven needed: Ideal for hot weather or quick prep.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 6 cups Rice Chex cereal – This cereal serves as the base, providing the perfect light, crunchy texture to carry all the sweet flavors.

• 1 ½ cups white chocolate chips – Melted to coat the cereal, giving it a rich, creamy exterior. You can also use vanilla candy melts if preferred.

• 1 cup powdered sugar – Used to sweeten and coat the chocolate-covered cereal, giving it a powdery, classic “puppy chow” look.

• 1 (3.4 oz) box instant cheesecake pudding mix – Adds that tangy, creamy cheesecake flavor without needing to be cooked.

• ½ cup cherry chip cake mix – Infuses the coating with sweet cherry flavor. If unavailable, strawberry cake mix can be substituted.

• 1 cup freeze-dried cherries – Sprinkled on at the end for bursts of tart cherry flavor and chewy texture.

• 4 oz cream cheese, softened (optional) – Used for an optional cheesecake drizzle over the finished mix, adding even more richness. If used, the puppy chow must be stored in the fridge.

Directions

1. Prepare the coating mix
   In a large zip-top bag or bowl, combine the powdered sugar, instant cheesecake pudding mix, and cherry chip cake mix. Mix well until evenly combined. Set aside.

2. Melt the chocolate
   Place the white chocolate chips (or candy melts) in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 20–30 second intervals, stirring between each, until fully melted and smooth.

3. Coat the cereal
   Add the Rice Chex cereal to a large mixing bowl. Pour the melted chocolate over the cereal and gently fold with a spatula until all the cereal is evenly coated.

4. Shake and coat
   Transfer the coated cereal into the prepared zip-top bag with the dry sugar mixture. Seal the bag tightly and shake until every piece of cereal is evenly coated in the powder.

5. Add cherries and cool
   Spread the coated cereal onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. While still slightly tacky, sprinkle the freeze-dried cherries evenly over the mixture so they stick lightly to the surface. Allow it to cool and set completely.

6. Optional cheesecake drizzle
   If using cream cheese, beat it until smooth and creamy. Using a small spoon or piping bag, drizzle lightly over the cooled mixture for an extra layer of cheesecake flavor. Keep in mind, this version should be stored in the refrigerator.

7. Store
   Once fully set and dry, transfer the puppy chow to an airtight container for storage.

Servings and timing

Servings: Makes about 10–12 servings
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cooling time: 20–30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Strawberry twist: Use strawberry cake mix instead of cherry chip for a slightly different fruity flavor.

• Chocolate cherry: Add mini chocolate chips or use chocolate Chex for a deeper flavor.

• Holiday mix: Add red and white candies for Christmas, or pink candies for Valentine’s Day.

• Nuts and crunch: Add crushed almonds, walnuts, or pecans for extra texture.

• Dried fruit swap: Substitute freeze-dried cherries with dried cranberries or strawberries.

• Vegan-friendly: Use dairy-free chocolate, pudding mix, and vegan cream cheese.

• Color boost: Add a drop of red food coloring to the melted chocolate for a brighter look.

• Sprinkle fun: Add colorful sprinkles after coating for birthday or celebration themes.

• Candy coating: Toss in red cherry-flavored candies or yogurt-covered raisins for more mix-ins.

• Lemon cherry cheesecake: Add a little lemon zest to the coating mix for a citrusy balance.

Storage/Reheating

Store Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you added the cream cheese drizzle, the mix should be kept in the refrigerator and consumed within 3–4 days. Do not reheat—this snack is meant to be served at room temperature or chilled.

FAQs

What is the best type of cereal to use for puppy chow?

Rice Chex is ideal because of its light, crisp texture and ability to hold coatings well, but Corn Chex or similar cereals also work.

Can I use regular cake mix instead of cherry chip?

Yes, if cherry chip cake mix is unavailable, strawberry or vanilla cake mix makes a great substitute with a similar flavor profile.

Do I have to refrigerate this puppy chow?

Only if you use the cream cheese drizzle. Without it, the mix can be stored at room temperature.

Can I use white candy melts instead of chocolate chips?

Absolutely. Candy melts are easy to melt and create a smooth coating, making them a great alternative.

What if I can’t find cheesecake pudding mix?

You can use vanilla pudding mix for a similar sweet flavor, though it won’t have the distinct cheesecake tang.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, it stores well for up to 5 days at room temperature or 3–4 days in the fridge if using cream cheese.

How do I keep the cereal from getting soggy?

Make sure to allow the mix to fully cool and set before storing. Avoid using fresh or overly moist mix-ins.

Is this safe for kids with nut allergies?

This recipe doesn’t contain nuts, but always check labels on cake mix, chocolate, and pudding for cross-contamination warnings.

Can I use fresh cherries?

Fresh cherries contain moisture and will make the mix soggy. Use only freeze-dried cherries for best texture and shelf life.

Why is it called “puppy chow”?

Despite the name, it’s a human treat. It gets its nickname because it resembles dry dog food in appearance—but it’s sweet, crunchy, and entirely delicious.

Conclusion

Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow is a fun, flavorful twist on the classic snack mix that’s bursting with cherry and cheesecake goodness. With its rich coating, fruity toppings, and satisfying crunch, it’s an easy-to-make treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you serve it at a gathering, gift it to friends, or keep it all to yourself, this colorful and delicious snack is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.