Description

Strawberry Shortcake Puppy Chow is a delightful no-bake snack mix featuring crispy rice cereal coated in melted white chocolate and generously dusted with a sweet blend of powdered sugar, crushed freeze-dried strawberries, Golden Oreos, and optional strawberry gelatin powder. This vibrant, easy-to-make treat delivers a nostalgic strawberry shortcake flavor in a convenient, shareable form, perfect for parties or an anytime sweet snack.

Ingredients

Scale

Dry Ingredients

5 cups rice cereal squares (like Chex)
1 cup Golden Oreos, crushed
½ cup freeze-dried strawberries, crushed
¾ cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons strawberry gelatin powder (optional, for extra color and flavor)

Wet Ingredients

1 cup white chocolate chips

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Instructions

Prepare the cereal base: Place the 5 cups of rice cereal squares into a large mixing bowl, ensuring it is spacious enough to accommodate mixing without spilling.
Melt the white chocolate: Transfer 1 cup white chocolate chips into a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 20-second intervals, stirring thoroughly between each, until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth without lumps.
Coat the cereal: Pour the melted white chocolate over the rice cereal. Using a spatula, gently fold and stir to ensure every cereal piece is evenly coated with the chocolate.
Mix coating ingredients: In a large zip-top bag, combine crushed freeze-dried strawberries, powdered sugar, crushed Golden Oreos, and if using, 2 tablespoons strawberry gelatin powder. This mixture will add the signature strawberry shortcake flavor and vibrant color.
Coat the cereal with the dry mixture: Add the chocolate-coated cereal into the zip-top bag with the dry mixture. Seal the bag securely and shake vigorously until the cereal is thoroughly coated with the sugar and strawberry mixture.
Cool and set: Spread the coated cereal evenly onto a baking sheet to cool and allow the coating to set fully. This ensures a crisp texture and reduces clumping.
Store appropriately: Once cooled, transfer the strawberry shortcake puppy chow to an airtight container. Store at room temperature for up to 1 week to maintain freshness and crunch.

Notes

Use freeze-dried strawberries rather than fresh or frozen to prevent moisture and sogginess in the snack mix.
For an added twist and texture, consider mixing in mini marshmallows or yogurt-covered raisins after coating the cereal.
If you want a more intense strawberry flavor, adding the optional strawberry gelatin powder enhances both taste and color.
Ensure the white chocolate is melted gently to avoid burning and maintain a smooth coating.
This recipe is ideal for making ahead, perfect for parties or gifting.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Snack, Dessert
Method: No-Cook
Cuisine: American