Why is this dessert called Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow?

This sweet treat gets its name from its resemblance to traditional puppy chow, or "muddy buddies," a popular snack mix. The "Cherry Cheesecake" part comes from its delightful blend of cherry gelatin and cheesecake pudding flavors. It's a playful, whimsical name that hints at the dessert's flavor profile, without involving any real puppies, of course! It's perfect for those who love the tangy sweetness of cherry cheesecake in a fun, snackable form.

What ingredients do I need to make Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow?

To whip up this delightful snack, you’ll need 3.4 ounces of cheesecake pudding mix, 3 ounces of cherry gelatin mix, and 1 cup plus 3 tablespoons of powdered sugar. You'll also need 8 cups of rice square cereal (like Chex) and a pound of vanilla bark. Optional red and pink sprinkles can add a festive touch, especially for occasions like Valentine's Day. These ingredients combine to create a crunchy, sweet, and irresistible treat.

What is Puppy Chow actually called?

In many places, this treat is known as "Muddy Buddies," a name trademarked by the makers of Chex cereal. However, "Puppy Chow" is the affectionate, informal term widely used among snack lovers. Despite the name, it’s a human treat, with no dog food involved. The name simply refers to the cereal's coating, which resembles dog food once it's all mixed and coated.

What is a Puppy Chow snack made of?

Traditional puppy chow is made using rice or corn square cereal, melted chocolate, peanut butter, and powdered sugar. Variations like Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow add fun twists with different flavor mixes, such as cheesecake pudding and cherry gelatin. The cereal is coated in these flavors, creating a crunchy, sweet snack. It's an easy recipe that can be adapted with different flavors to suit any palate or occasion.

Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow - Sweet Valentine's Treat

Description

The wonderful light flavor of cherry and cheesecake. Kids love it and so do adults. Serve this cherry cheesecake puppy chow as a quick and easy Valentine’s Day dessert at your party!

Ingredients

Scale

3.4 oz cheesecake pudding mix

3 oz cherry agar-agar powder mix

1 cup plus 3 tbsp powdered sugar

8 cups rice square cereal (like Chex)

1 lb container vanilla bark

Optional red and pink sprinkles

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

1. Line a large baking sheet with foil.

2. In a large zip-top bag, add the pudding mix, agar-agar powder mix, powdered sugar, and optional sprinkles. Mix to combine and set aside.

3. Measure the cereal into a large bowl.

4. Keep the vanilla bark in its container and place in the microwave.

5. Microwave 1 minute, stir, then heat an additional minute.

6. Pour melted vanilla bark over cereal and stir until cereal is completely coated.

7. Dump into the bag with the powdered sugar mixture, shake until all the cereal is coated.

8. Pour onto the large foil-covered pan until set.

9. Store in a covered container for up to 2 weeks.

Notes

Using cherry jello powder gives a natural light pink color.

Try using red and pink candy melts instead of vanilla bark for different colors.

Prep Time: 20
Cook Time: 2
Category: Dessert
Method: No-Bake
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/12 batch
Calories: 320 kcal
Sugar: 30 g
Sodium: 320 mg
Fat: 15 g
Saturated Fat: 10 g
Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 45 g
Fiber: 1 g
Protein: 2 g
Cholesterol: 0 mg