Easy Strawberry Shortcake Puppy Chow

Start with a classic Puppy Chow twist—infused with sweet strawberry shortcake flair—for a snack that’s fast, fun, and irresistibly flaky.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I adore how effortlessly this treat comes together. It’s a no-bake wonder that takes just about 15 minutes, featuring only 4 ingredients—and that dreamy pink hue makes it especially delightful for parties or just spontaneous snacking. Kids—and curious adults—won’t be able to resist joining in the mixing fun.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 oz package freeze-dried strawberries (or dried strawberry powder)

• 4 cups Rice or Corn Chex cereal

• 1 cup white chocolate chips

• 1/3 cup icing sugar (also known as powdered sugar or confectioner’s sugar)

directions

1. I pulse the freeze-dried strawberries in a food processor until they become a fine powder.

2. I mix that strawberry powder with the icing sugar until it’s evenly pink and powdery. I then pour the blend into a 1-gallon freezer bag and set it aside.

3. Next, I melt the white chocolate chips in short 30-second bursts in the microwave—stirring between intervals to prevent scorching.

4. Once smooth, I gently fold the melted white chocolate into the cereal in a large bowl, ensuring each piece is coated but not crushed.

5. I transfer the coated cereal to the bag containing the strawberry-sugar mixture and gently toss to coat every piece.

6. I spread the mix evenly on a baking sheet and chill it in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes to let the chocolate firm up.

7. When set, I store the snack in an airtight container at room temperature, ready for munching whenever I please.

Servings and timing

This snack takes approximately:

• Prep Time: 10–20 minutes

• No baking required

• Total Time: ~15–30 minutes
  It makes roughly 4 cups—perfect for sharing or gifting.

Variations

If I’m looking to mix it up, I sometimes:

• Use Corn Chex for a heartier crunch or Crispix for different texture

• Swap in vanilla candy melts or almond bark if white chocolate isn’t on hand

• Try raspberry or mixed berry powder if strawberry flavor isn’t available

• Mix in colorful sprinkles or mini white chocolate chips for extra visual appeal

storage/reheating

I keep this puppy chow in a sealed container at room temperature, where it stays crisp and delicious for up to a week (if it lasts that long!). I avoid refrigerating it since the chill can make the coating sticky and ruin the crispy texture.

FAQs

What if I don’t have freeze-dried strawberries?

I’ve used other freeze-dried fruits like raspberries, or even a quick sprinkle of powdered strawberry cake mix. Fresh or regular dried fruit won’t work—not enough crunch and too much moisture.

Can I use Corn Chex instead of Rice Chex?

Absolutely—I’ve done both. Corn Chex adds a bit more corn flavor and sturdiness, but either works great as long as it’s fresh and crispy.

Can I make this with regular chocolate instead of white chocolate?

You can, but it won’t evoke that classic strawberry shortcake vibe. White chocolate or vanilla candy coating keeps the flavor true and the look bright.

How do I avoid uneven coating?

I coat the cereal in small batches and stir gently to avoid clumps or excess chocolate in one spot. Patience helps—it stays crisp and evenly covered.

Does it lose its crunch if stored overnight?

Nope—not if stored properly. I just give the container a light shake every day to redistribute the powder for freshness.

Conclusion

This Easy Strawberry Shortcake Puppy Chow is one of my favorite no-fuss treats—whip it up in minutes, enjoy the pretty pink crunch, and marvel that such simple ingredients can taste so magical. Perfect for snack time, gifting, or just a moment of sweet indulgence. Let me know if you’d like me to transform another recipe!

Easy Strawberry Shortcake Puppy Chow

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• Author: Chef Sara
• Total Time: approximately 15–30 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings

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Description

A quick and irresistible no‑bake strawberry shortcake puppy chow snack mix featuring crispy Chex cereal, creamy white chocolate, freeze‑dried strawberries, and powdered sugar—ready in under 20 minutes.

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Ingredients

1 ounce package freeze‑dried strawberries (or strawberry powder)

4 cups Rice or Corn Chex cereal

1 cup white chocolate chips

1/3 cup powdered (icing) sugar 

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Instructions

Pulse freeze‑dried strawberries in a food processor until they form a fine powder, or use pre‑made strawberry powder.

In a bowl, mix the strawberry powder with the powdered sugar until well combined and uniformly colored. Set aside in a sealed bag or container.

Melt white chocolate chips in 30‑second intervals in the microwave, stirring in between, until completely smooth—avoid overheating.

Gently fold melted white chocolate into the Chex cereal in a large bowl, coating each piece without crushing.

Transfer the chocolate‑coated cereal into the bag containing the strawberry‑sugar mixture. Seal and gently toss until every piece is evenly coated.

Spread the coated mix onto a baking sheet (lined with parchment, if preferred) and refrigerate for 15 minutes to allow the chocolate to set.

After cooling, store in an airtight container at room temperature—best eaten within one week. 

• Prep Time: about 10–20 minutes
• Cook Time: 5–10 minutes (melting and coating steps)
• Category: Snack
• Cuisine: American