Strawberry Shortcake Puppy Chow
Puppy chow goes by many names: muddy buddies, monkey munch, and muddy munch, among others. But, whatever you call this sweet treat, the fact is that people of all ages love this candy. There have been a lot of variations on this classic over the years, from the traditional chocolate peanut butter to snickerdoodle flavor, but this strawberry shortcake puppy chow mix is absolutely one of my favorites.
The creamy white chocolate base is the perfect supporting actor for the star of the show: the freeze-dried strawberries. Alongside the crunch of the Chex cereal, it’s a winning combination and one that doesn’t rely on peanut butter or milk chocolate.
This recipe calls for corn or rice Chex since they take on the flavors of the other ingredients really nicely, and both of these varieties are gluten-free. And, if you use allergen-free white chocolate chips, then you’ve got an indulgent dessert that even people with nut allergies or celiac disease can enjoy. And, it’s not every day you can say that a treat that meets those qualifications tastes this amazing.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This strawberry shortcake puppy chow is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. It’s an allergy-friendly treat that doesn’t compromise on taste, making it a perfect snack for gatherings. The combination of creamy white chocolate and tangy freeze-dried strawberries offers a unique twist on a classic favorite.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Food processor
- Microwave-safe bowl
- Large mixing bowl
- 1-gallon freezer bag
- Baking sheet
Ingredients
- 1 1-oz bag freeze-dried strawberries
- 4 cups rice or corn Chex cereal
- 1 cup white chocolate chips
- 1/3 cup powdered sugar
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Place strawberries in a food processor and chop until they become a fine powder. Alternatively, you could also use pre-packaged dried strawberry powder.
- Combine strawberry powder and powdered sugar in a bowl and mix until all one color. Pour mixture into a 1-gallon freezer bag and seal.
- Melt white chocolate chips in the microwave using 30-second intervals, stirring between each one until completely melted. Do not overheat. Fold chocolate together with cereal in a large bowl until coated, but do not crush the cereal. Transfer to baggie and gently toss to coat each piece of cereal.
- Lay out the mix on a baking sheet and refrigerate for 15 minutes to set the chocolate. Store in an airtight container and enjoy.
Tips for Success
To ensure the best results, be careful not to overheat the white chocolate as it can seize and become unusable. When mixing the cereal with the chocolate, fold gently to avoid breaking the cereal pieces.
Additional Tips and Variations
For an extra kick of flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the melted chocolate. You can also experiment with other freeze-dried fruits like raspberries or blueberries for different flavor profiles.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
This strawberry shortcake puppy chow is a sweet treat, so it’s best enjoyed in moderation. It provides a good source of carbohydrates from the cereal and a small amount of protein and fat from the white chocolate chips.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use milk chocolate instead of white chocolate? Yes, but the flavor will be different, and you may lose the “shortcake” essence of the mix.
How should I store the puppy chow? Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Absolutely! It can be made a day or two in advance and stored as mentioned above.
Conclusion
I invite you to try this delightful strawberry shortcake puppy chow recipe. It’s a treat that promises to be a hit at any gathering or simply as a sweet indulgence for yourself. Don’t forget to share your experiences and any unique twists you added to the recipe!
