Strawberry Shortcake Puppy Chow is a delightful twist on the classic puppy chow snack mix. This sweet, crunchy treat combines the flavors of strawberries and vanilla cake, coated in powdered sugar, for a fun and colorful dessert that’s perfect for parties, holidays, or a simple indulgence. It’s a no-bake recipe that’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it a favorite for both kids and adults alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Strawberry Shortcake Puppy Chow is not just eye-catching with its pink hue, but it’s also bursting with flavor. The combination of white chocolate, strawberry flavoring, and cake mix creates a nostalgic dessert that mimics the beloved strawberry shortcake in snack form. It’s a quick, mess-free treat that stores well and is ideal for gifting or sharing at gatherings. Plus, there’s no need to turn on the oven.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Rice Chex cereal
White chocolate chips or candy melts
Freeze-dried strawberries
Strawberry gelatin mix (optional, for added color and flavor)
Vanilla or white cake mix
Powdered sugar
Butter (optional, for smoother chocolate melting)

directions

Place freeze-dried strawberries in a food processor and pulse until they become a fine powder. Mix with the cake mix and powdered sugar in a large bowl. Set aside.
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the white chocolate chips or candy melts. Add butter if using, and stir until smooth.
Pour the Rice Chex cereal into a large mixing bowl. Drizzle the melted chocolate over the cereal, gently folding with a spatula to coat evenly.
Once the cereal is fully coated, pour it into a large zip-top bag or use a large mixing bowl with a lid.
Add the powdered strawberry shortcake mixture and shake or stir until the cereal is evenly coated.
Let cool and dry for at least 30 minutes before serving or storing.

Servings and timing

Servings: Approximately 10–12 servings
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooling time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes

Variations

Lemon Berry Twist: Add a tablespoon of lemon zest to the powdered sugar mixture for a citrusy complement.
Chocolate Dipped: Mix in a few mini chocolate chips after the cereal has cooled for added richness.
Nutty Crunch: Stir in some crushed almonds or peanuts for added texture.
Vegan Version: Use dairy-free white chocolate and vegan cake mix.
Extra Fruity: Add whole freeze-dried strawberries to the final mix for an added fruity crunch.

storage/reheating

Store the Strawberry Shortcake Puppy Chow in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. To keep it extra fresh, you can refrigerate it, but allow it to come to room temperature before serving. Reheating is not necessary and not recommended, as it will affect the texture of the coating.

FAQs

What is puppy chow?

Puppy chow is a sweet snack mix typically made with cereal, chocolate, peanut butter, and powdered sugar. This variation uses strawberry and white chocolate flavors.

Can I use fresh strawberries instead of freeze-dried?

No, fresh strawberries will add moisture and make the mix soggy. Freeze-dried strawberries are essential for maintaining a crisp texture.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

It can be, provided you use a gluten-free cake mix and verify that your cereal and other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Can I use different cereals?

Yes, though Rice Chex is ideal for coating. Crispix or other similar cereals could work, but the texture may vary.

How do I prevent clumping?

Mix gently and ensure the cereal is well coated before adding the dry mixture. Shake or stir thoroughly for even distribution.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, this snack keeps well for several days, making it perfect for advance preparation.

Is this safe for kids?

Yes, though it should be eaten in moderation due to its sugar content. Always supervise young children to prevent choking on dry cereal pieces.

Can I freeze this snack?

Freezing is not recommended as it may alter the texture and flavor of the coating.

How long does it stay fresh?

Stored in an airtight container, it stays fresh for up to one week at room temperature.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely. Just ensure you have a large enough mixing bowl or divide into batches for even coating.

Conclusion

Strawberry Shortcake Puppy Chow is an irresistible, no-bake treat that’s as simple to make as it is delicious. With its crunchy texture, sweet strawberry flavor, and charming appearance, it’s bound to become a favorite for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing it for a party, holiday, or casual snacking, this recipe is a delightful way to enjoy the nostalgic taste of strawberry shortcake in a fun new form.