What Is Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow?
Puppy Chow (or Muddy Buddies) is a classic no-bake snack made with Chex cereal, melted chocolate, and powdered sugar. This Cherry Cheesecake version takes it to the next level with cream cheese, cherry gelatin, and graham crackers for a tropical, tangy-sweet twist!
Table of Contents
✅ Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Only 5 main ingredients
- Ready in 15 minutes (no baking!)
- Perfect for parties & gifting
- Kid-friendly & customizable
Irresistible Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow (Ready in 15 Minutes!)
Equipment
- Large Mixing Bowl
- Microwave-Safe Bowl
- Baking Sheet
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 5 cups Rice Chex cereal
- 1 cup white chocolate chips
- 4 tablespoons cream cheese softened
Coating Mixture
- 0.5 cup powdered sugar
- 0.25 cup cherry gelatin powder like Jell-O
- 0.5 cup crushed graham crackers
- 0.5 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 0.25 cup freeze-dried cherries optional, for extra flavor
Instructions
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt white chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until completely smooth.
- Mix in softened cream cheese and vanilla extract until fully combined and creamy.
- Place Rice Chex cereal in a large mixing bowl. Pour the melted chocolate mixture over the cereal and gently toss until evenly coated.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, cherry gelatin powder, and crushed graham crackers.
- Sprinkle the sugar mixture over the coated cereal and toss again until every piece is fully covered.
- Spread the mixture on a parchment-lined baking sheet and let set for 15 minutes. If using, gently mix in freeze-dried cherries before serving.
Notes
Ingredients for Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow
(Makes 6 cups)
| Ingredient | Why It’s Important |
|---|---|
| 5 cups Rice Chex cereal | Light, crispy base |
| 1 cup white chocolate chips | Melts into creamy coating |
| 4 tbsp cream cheese | Adds cheesecake tang |
| ½ cup powdered sugar | Sweetens & thickens |
| ¼ cup cherry gelatin powder | Bold cherry flavor |
| ½ tsp vanilla extract | Enhances sweetness |
| ½ cup crushed graham crackers | Cheesecake crust texture |
| ¼ cup freeze-dried cherries (optional) | Extra fruity crunch |
Pro Tip: For a stronger cherry flavor, add an extra tbsp of cherry gelatin!
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Melt the Chocolate
- In a microwave-safe bowl, heat white chocolate chips in 30-second bursts, stirring between each, until smooth.
- Mix in cream cheese & vanilla until fully combined.
2. Coat the Cereal
- Pour melted chocolate mixture over Chex cereal in a large bowl.
- Gently toss until evenly coated.
3. Add Cherry Cheesecake Flavor
- In a separate bowl, mix:
- Powdered sugar
- Cherry gelatin powder
- Crushed graham crackers
- Sprinkle over coated cereal & toss again.
4. Let It Set
- Spread on a parchment-lined tray and let sit for 15 minutes.
5. Serve & Enjoy!
- Mix in freeze-dried cherries (if using).
- Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow with:
- Hot chocolate (for cozy nights)
- Ice cream topping (next-level sundae!)
- Party snack mix (great for gifting)
Final Thoughts: Why This Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow Will Steal the Show
Let’s be real—this isn’t just another snack recipe. This Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow is a flavor explosion that turns humble ingredients into something magical. In just 15 minutes, you get:
✅ Restaurant-worthy taste (without the fuss!)
✅ Endless customization (swap flavors, add nuts, or drizzle with chocolate)
✅ Crowd-pleasing versatility (game day? gifts? midnight snack? Yes.)
The secret? That tangy cream cheese twist balanced with sweet cherry gelatin and crunchy graham crackers. It’s the kind of recipe you’ll bookmark forever—and the one friends will beg you to bring to every party.
Your turn! Whip up a batch and watch it disappear. Don’t forget to contact me on contact@everydayYummyRecipes.com so I can see your creations. (Pro tip: Double the recipe… trust me.)
More Recipes You’ll Love:
Addictive Strawberry Cheesecake Crunch Bites – You Won’t Stop at One!
OREO Dirt Cake: 7 Irresistible Layers of Chocolate Heaven
Or go to my Pinterest.
FAQs
Does puppy chow need to be refrigerated?
No, Puppy Chow does not need refrigeration. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. Refrigeration can make it soggy.
Can no-bake cherry cheesecake puppy chow be frozen?
Yes! Freeze in a sealed container or ziplock bag for up to 1 month. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
How to keep puppy chow from getting soggy?
Use airtight storage (glass jars work best).
Avoid humidity (keep away from stovetops/fridges).
Add powdered sugar before storing to absorb moisture.
What’s another name for puppy chow?
It’s also called “Muddy Buddies” (the official Chex Mix name) or “Monkey Munch.”
How long does cherry cheesecake puppy chow last in the fridge?
While it’s best at room temp, refrigerated Puppy Chow lasts up to 2 weeks (may lose crispiness).
How many cups of cereal are in a box of Chex?
A standard 12-oz box of Chex contains about 9 cups of cereal—enough for 2 batches of this recipe!