Ingredients
Scale
- 9 cups Rice Chex Cereal
- 1 cup White Chocolate Chips
- 1/4 cup Unsalted Butter
- 1 cup Freeze-Dried Strawberries
- 3 cups Powdered Sugar
- 1/2 cup crushed Vanilla Wafer Cookies (finely ground)
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the shortcake coating by placing the freeze-dried strawberries, 1 cup of powdered sugar, and the crushed vanilla wafer cookies into a food processor or blender. Pulse until the strawberries are pulverized into a fine, bright pink powder. Pour this mixture into a large bowl and whisk in the remaining 2 cups of powdered sugar.
- Step 2: Place the Chex cereal into a very large bowl (or a 2-gallon zipper-top bag if shaking immediately). In a separate microwave-safe bowl, melt the white chocolate chips and unsalted butter in 30-second intervals, stirring until the mixture is completely smooth.
- Step 3: Pour the melted chocolate mixture over the Chex cereal. Gently fold the cereal using a rubber spatula until every piece is lightly coated with the chocolate mixture, being careful not to crush the pieces.
- Step 4: Transfer the coated cereal into the zipper-top bag containing the strawberry shortcake coating powder. Seal the bag tightly, removing excess air, and shake gently at first, then vigorously for 1-2 minutes until the puppy chow is completely and evenly coated in the pink powder.
- Step 5: Spread the finished Strawberry Shortcake Puppy Chow onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper in a single layer to cool and fully set for at least 15-20 minutes before serving or storing.
Notes
- Store the puppy chow in an airtight container at cool room temperature for up to one week to maintain the crisp texture and prevent the powdered sugar from getting gummy.
- If the mix feels sticky or soft after setting, spread it onto a baking sheet and pop it in the freezer for 10 minutes to help the white chocolate fully firm up.
- For an appealing presentation and textural balance, mix the finished puppy chow with salty mini pretzels or crunchy slivered almonds before serving.
- Ensure your freeze-dried strawberries are pulverized into an extremely fine dust, as this is vital for creating the bright, even shortcake coating that clings perfectly to the cereal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American