Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow

If you’re looking for a fun and delicious treat that combines nostalgia with a twist, you’ve come to the right place! This Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow is one of my absolute favorites. The creamy cheesecake flavor paired with the sweetness of cherry Vegan vegan gelatin makes it impossible to resist. Whether you’re planning a movie night, throwing a birthday bash, or just need a sweet snack to keep on hand, this recipe has got you covered.

What I love most about this Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow is how easy it is to whip up. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something special without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, kids and adults alike will adore munching on this delightful mix!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delicious treat in less than 20 minutes!
• Family-Friendly: Everyone from kids to grandparents will enjoy the sweet flavors and crunchy texture.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: This Puppy Chow stays fresh for up to two weeks, making it perfect for prepping in advance.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite sprinkles or even swap out flavors to make it your own.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is part of the fun! All you need are simple, wholesome items that blend beautifully together. Here’s what you’ll need for this Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow:

• 1 (3.4 oz) cheesecake pudding mix
• 1 (3 oz) cherry Vegan vegan gelatin mix
• 1 cup plus 3 tbsp powdered sugar
• 8 cups rice Chex cereal
• 1 lb vanilla almond bark
• Optional: red and pink sprinkles

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily switch things up based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. Here are some fun ideas:

• Add More Flavor: Sprinkle in some crushed graham crackers for a true cheesecake vibe.
• Try Different Gelatin Flavors: Experiment with different Vegan gelatin flavors like strawberry or raspberry for a fruity twist.
• Mix Up the Coating: Use white chocolate instead of almond bark for a different type of sweetness.
• Top with Nuts: For an extra crunch, toss in some chopped nuts or coconut flakes.

How to Make Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Sheet

Start by lining a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent the Puppy Chow from sticking and make cleanup easier later on.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large zip-top bag, add the cheesecake pudding mix, cherry Vegan gelatin powder, powdered sugar, and if you’re feeling festive, some red and pink sprinkles. Shake it all together until well combined and then set it aside.

Step 3: Measure Your Cereal

Next, measure out the rice Chex cereal into a large bowl. It’s important to use rice Chex because they hold up well against the melted coating while still providing that satisfying crunch!

Step 4: Melt the Almond Bark

Keep the almond bark in its tray and pop it into the microwave. Heat it for about one minute, stir it well, then heat for another minute until it’s fully melted. This step ensures that your candy coating is smooth and easy to pour.

Step 5: Coat the Cereal

Pour that luscious melted almond bark over your cereal mixture. Use a rubber spatula to gently fold everything together until every piece of cereal is completely coated in that yummy goodness.

Step 6: Shake It Up!

Carefully dump your coated cereal into the bag with the powdered sugar mixture. Seal it tightly and shake away until all those delightful pieces are coated evenly.

Step 7: Set It Out

Spread the entire batch onto your lined baking sheet and let it set until firm. This should only take a little while—just enough time to give your hands a break!

Step 8: Store Your Treats

Once set, transfer your Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow into an airtight container. It will stay fresh for up to two weeks (if it lasts that long!), making it perfect for snacking throughout the week.

Enjoy making this delightful Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow! It’s sure to be a hit at any gathering or simply as an afternoon pick-me-up.

Pro Tips for Making Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow

Making Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow is a breeze, but these tips will ensure your snack is truly irresistible!

• Use fresh ingredients: Always opt for fresh rice Chex and new pudding mixes. Fresh ingredients enhance the flavor and texture of your Puppy Chow.
• Don’t skip the shaking: After coating the cereal with the melted almond bark, shaking it in the powdered sugar mixture is crucial. This step ensures even coverage and prevents clumping, resulting in a delightful treat.
• Let it cool completely: Once you spread the coated cereal on the baking sheet, allow it to cool completely before storing. This helps maintain crunchiness and prevents it from becoming soggy.
• Experiment with flavors: While this recipe features cherry and cheesecake flavors, feel free to mix it up! You can try different pudding mixes or even add nuts for a unique twist.
• Add sprinkles for festive flair: If you’re making this treat for a special occasion, sprinkles not only add a pop of color but also make your Puppy Chow visually appealing.

How to Serve Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow

This Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow not only tastes amazing but also looks fantastic when served right! Here are some fun ideas to present this delightful snack.

Garnishes

• Shredded coconut: Sprinkling some shredded coconut over the top adds a tropical touch that complements the cherry flavor beautifully.
• Chocolate drizzle: A light drizzle of melted vegan chocolate on top can elevate your Puppy Chow and give it an extra layer of richness.
• Chopped nuts: For added crunch, sprinkle some finely chopped nuts like almonds or pecans on top before serving.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit platter: Pairing your Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow with a vibrant fruit platter featuring strawberries, blueberries, and cherries creates a refreshing balance of flavors.
• Vegan vanilla ice cream: Serve alongside creamy vegan vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast in textures that enhances the overall experience.
• Popcorn: A bowl of lightly salted popcorn provides a savory counterpoint to the sweetness of your Puppy Chow, making for an exciting snack combo.
• Veggies and hummus: For those looking for something savory, a colorful assortment of veggies paired with hummus offers a healthy option that balances out the sweetness.

Now you’re ready to enjoy your Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow! Whether you’re hosting friends or just indulging on your own, this sweet treat is sure to be a hit. Happy snacking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow is a fantastic treat for meal prep! You can whip up a batch in no time, making it perfect for parties, snacks, or just to have on hand when that sweet craving hits.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the Puppy Chow in an airtight container at room temperature.
• It will stay fresh for up to 2 weeks.
• Keep it away from direct sunlight and moisture to maintain its crunch.

Freezing

• While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze it if needed.
• Place the Puppy Chow in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just remember to let it thaw at room temperature before enjoying!

Reheating

• There’s no need to reheat this treat.
• Simply enjoy it straight from the container once thawed. The delightful crunch will remain intact!

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow that might help you out!

Can I use different flavors of pudding mix in Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different pudding flavors like vanilla or chocolate for a unique twist on this classic recipe.

How long does Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow stay fresh?

Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow remains fresh for up to 2 weeks when stored properly in an airtight container at room temperature.

Is Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow gluten-free?

Yes! As long as you use certified gluten-free rice Chex cereal, this recipe is completely gluten-free and suitable for those with dietary restrictions.

Can I add other toppings to my Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow?

Definitely! Adding nuts, chocolate chips, or even crushed graham crackers can enhance the flavor and texture of your Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow.

Final Thoughts

Creating this Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow is not only simple but also a delightful way to treat yourself and share joy with friends and family. Its sweet cherry flavor combined with creamy cheesecake notes makes it truly special. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do! Don’t hesitate to share your experience or variations—happy snacking!