Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow

If you’re looking for a fun and sweet treat that will make everyone smile, then this Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow is just the thing! It’s a delightful twist on the classic Puppy Chow, combining creamy cheesecake flavors with the irresistible sweetness of cherry Vegan gelatin. Whether you’re preparing for a family gathering, hosting a movie night, or just craving something sweet to snack on, this recipe fits the bill perfectly. It’s quick to whip up and even more enjoyable to share!

This special recipe has quickly become a favorite in my home. The combination of flavors is simply heavenly, and trust me; it’s hard to resist sneaking a handful (or two) when it’s around. Plus, it’s super easy to make, which means less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying with loved ones!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have this delicious snack ready in no time!
• Family-Friendly Fun: Kids love helping out with this recipe, from shaking the bag to pouring in the sprinkles.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday party or an everyday treat, Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow is always a hit.
• Make-Ahead Treat: You can prepare this ahead of time and store it—ideal for busy days when you need a sweet snack ready to go!
• Deliciously Unique Flavor: The creamy cheesecake combined with cherry is sure to delight your taste buds!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for this Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow are simple and wholesome. You probably have most of them in your pantry already! Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Base

• 1 (3.4 oz) cheesecake pudding mix
• 1 (3 oz) cherry Vegan gelatin mix
• 1 cup plus 3 tbsp powdered sugar
• 8 cups rice Chex cereal
• 1 lb vanilla almond bark

Optional Topping

• Red and pink sprinkles

Variations

One of the best parts about this Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow is how flexible it is! Feel free to get creative with your own twist on the recipe.

• Add Other Flavors: Try using different pudding mixes like vanilla or chocolate for unique flavors.
• Change Up the Cereal: Experiment with different cereals like corn Chex or even Cheerios for varied textures.
• Mix in Nuts: Add chopped nuts like almonds or pecans for some extra crunch.
• Go Crazy with Sprinkles: Use colorful sprinkles or themed ones for holidays or special occasions—make it festive!

How to Make Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Sheet

Start by lining a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This step helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup a breeze later on.

Step 2: Mix the Coating

In a large zip-top bag, combine the cheesecake pudding mix, cherry Vegan gelatin powder, powdered sugar, and optional sprinkles. Mixing these dry ingredients first ensures they blend evenly when we coat our cereal later.

Step 3: Measure Your Cereal

Pour 8 cups of rice Chex cereal into a large bowl. This will be the base of our puppy chow and gives it that delightful crunchy texture we all love!

Step 4: Melt the Almond Bark

Keep the almond bark in its tray and place it in the microwave. Microwave it for one minute, stir well, then heat for another minute until fully melted. Melting it slowly helps avoid scorching and ensures it’s smooth when we coat our cereal.

Step 5: Coat the Cereal

Pour the melted almond bark over the cereal and gently stir with a rubber spatula until every piece is coated. This step is key because each piece needs that delicious almond bark coating!

Step 6: Shake It Up!

Dump your coated cereal into the bag containing your powdered sugar mixture. Seal tightly and shake until all pieces are covered evenly—it’s like magic watching them transform into tasty treats!

Step 7: Let It Set

Spread everything out on your lined baking sheet so it can cool down and set properly. This usually takes just a few minutes but is essential for getting that perfect crunch.

Step 8: Store Your Treats

Once set, store your Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow in an airtight container. It can last up to two weeks—but I bet it won’t last that long once everyone gets their hands on it!

Enjoy making this delightful treat! It’s perfect for sharing but I won’t blame you if you keep it all to yourself!

Pro Tips for Making Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow

Creating the perfect Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow is all about the little details! Here are some pro tips to elevate your snack experience:

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh ingredients enhance the flavor and texture of your Puppy Chow. Opt for high-quality almond bark and freshly opened cereal for the best results.

• Melt carefully: When melting your almond bark, do it in short bursts in the microwave. This prevents overheating and ensures a smooth, creamy coating for your cereal.

• Shake it well: After adding the coated cereal to the powdered sugar mixture, make sure to shake vigorously! This step ensures every piece gets that delightful sweetness and flavor.

• Let it set: Allowing your Puppy Chow to set completely on the baking sheet helps it achieve that perfect crunch. Patience pays off when you’re waiting for those flavors to meld!

• Experiment with flavors: Don’t be afraid to mix up the pudding or gelatin flavors! Try strawberry or blueberry for a fruity twist that still tastes fantastic.

How to Serve Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow

Serving your Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow can be just as fun as making it! Here are some ideas to present this delightful treat in style.

Garnishes

• Sprinkles: A sprinkle of red and pink sprinkles not only adds visual appeal but also enhances the festive vibe of your dish.
• Fresh cherries: Top your serving bowl with a few fresh cherries for a pop of color and an extra hint of cherry flavor.

Side Dishes

• Fruit skewers: Fresh fruit skewers made with strawberries, blueberries, and pineapple provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the Puppy Chow.
• Veggie platter: A colorful veggie platter with hummus dip offers a crunchy, healthy balance to complement your sweet treat.
• Popcorn: Lightly salted or sweet popcorn makes for an ideal pairing. Its airy texture contrasts nicely with the creamy, chewy Puppy Chow.
• Dairy-free ice cream: Serve with a scoop of dairy-free ice cream on the side for an indulgent dessert experience that’s sure to satisfy any sweet tooth!

Enjoy crafting this delightful Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow and sharing it with friends and family at your next gathering!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow is perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time for parties, movie nights, or just to have a sweet snack on hand.

Storing Leftovers

• Store your Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow in an airtight container.
• Keep it at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
• Avoid refrigerating, as it can lose its crunchy texture.

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 take out the desired amount and enjoy it straight from the container.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow.

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

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different pudding flavors. Vanilla or strawberry pudding would also create delicious variations!

How long can I store Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow?

Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks, making it great for meal prep!

Is there a substitute for almond bark in this recipe?

Yes, you can use white chocolate chips or vegan chocolate chips melted down as a substitute for almond bark.

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

Definitely! Chopped nuts or additional sprinkles make wonderful additions. Just toss them in after coating the cereal for extra flavor and crunch.

Final Thoughts

This Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow is more than just a snack; it’s a delightful treat that brings joy to any occasion. The combination of creamy cheesecake and sweet cherry flavors is sure to win hearts! I hope you enjoy making this fun recipe as much as I do—it’s perfect for sharing with friends and family. Happy munching!