If you love quick dessert snacks that combine sweet, crunchy, and creamy flavors, this Easy Strawberry Shortcake Puppy Chow is about to become your new favorite treat. Inspired by classic muddy buddies and the nostalgic taste of strawberry shortcake, this no-bake snack mix is perfect for parties, holidays, gifting, or anytime a sweet craving hits. With minimal ingredients and maximum flavor, it’s a crowd-pleaser for both kids and adults.

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Ingredients

4 cups Rice Chex, Corn Chex, or Crispix cereal
1 cup high-quality white chocolate chips
1 oz freeze-dried strawberries, finely ground
¾ cup powdered sugar

Instructions for Easy Strawberry Shortcake Puppy Chow

Prepare the Strawberry Powder
Place freeze-dried strawberries into a food processor or blender. Pulse until a fine powder forms. Set aside.
Make the Strawberry Sugar Coating
In a medium bowl, combine the strawberry powder with powdered sugar. Mix until evenly blended. Transfer to a large zip-top bag.
Melt the White Chocolate
Add white chocolate chips to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth and fully melted.
Coat the Cereal
Place cereal in a large mixing bowl. Gently pour the melted white chocolate over the cereal and fold carefully until evenly coated.
Shake to Coat
Transfer the chocolate-coated cereal into the bag with the strawberry sugar mixture. Seal tightly and gently shake until all pieces are fully coated.
Set the Puppy Chow
Spread the coated cereal onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Let it set at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before serving.

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Pro Tips

Use fresh, crispy cereal for the best crunch
Shake gently to avoid breaking cereal pieces
Let chocolate cool slightly before coating to prevent clumping
Sift powdered sugar if it’s lumpy for a smoother coating

Why This Recipe Works

No-bake and fast: Ready in under 15 minutes
Minimal ingredients: Pantry-friendly and simple
Visually appealing: Soft pink coating makes it perfect for holidays
Versatile snack: Great for parties, gifting, or lunchbox treats

Substitutions & Variations

Different fruits: Swap strawberries for freeze-dried raspberries or blueberries
Chocolate options: Use vanilla candy melts or almond bark
Gluten-free: Naturally gluten-free when using Chex cereal
Extra flavor: Add a touch of vanilla powder for depth

Make-Ahead, Storage & Reheating Guide

Make-Ahead: Prepare up to 2 days in advance
Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature
Shelf Life: Stays fresh for up to 7 days
Avoid refrigeration: Moisture can make the coating sticky

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Serving Ideas for Easy Strawberry Shortcake Puppy Chow

Serve in decorative bowls for parties
Package in jars or treat bags for gifts
Add to dessert tables or snack boards
Pair with vanilla ice cream for a fun topping

Nutrition (Per Serving Estimate)

Calories: ~250
Protein: 2 g
Fat: 12 g
Carbohydrates: 35 g
Sugar: 22 g

Estimates may vary based on ingredients used.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh strawberries instead of freeze-dried?

No, fresh strawberries add moisture and will prevent proper coating.

Is puppy chow safe for kids?

Yes, this recipe is kid-friendly and does not contain peanut butter.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely. Just coat the cereal in batches for even coverage.

What’s the best cereal for puppy chow?

Rice Chex, Corn Chex, or Crispix work best due to their shape and texture.

This Easy Strawberry Shortcake Puppy Chow is the perfect blend of fruity sweetness and crunchy satisfaction. Whether you’re making it for a party, gifting it to friends, or enjoying it at home, this recipe delivers big flavor with minimal effort. Once you try it, it’s bound to become a repeat favorite.