Name: Strawberry Shortcake Puppy Chow
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 cups Rice Chex or Corn Chex cereal; 1 cup white chocolate chips; 1 ounce freeze-dried strawberries, ground into powder; 1 cup powdered sugar

Jump to Recipe

Strawberry Shortcake Puppy Chow is the sweet, crunchy snack you make when you cannot decide between classic muddy buddies and strawberry shortcake. This no bake dessert combines crispy cereal, creamy white chocolate, and bright strawberry flavor in every bite. It comes together fast, which makes it perfect for parties, movie nights, or afternoon cravings. If you love a muddy buddies recipe but want something fruity and fun, this pink twist will quickly become your new favorite party mix treat.

Story

I first made Strawberry Shortcake Puppy Chow on a day when I wanted something sweet but did not want to bake a full cake. I had strawberries on the counter and a box of cereal in the pantry. Instead of choosing between desserts, I decided to combine them. That is how Strawberry Shortcake Puppy Chow became a regular treat in my kitchen.

This Strawberry Shortcake Puppy Chow keeps everything you love about traditional muddy buddies but adds a soft berry flavor that feels light and fresh. The creamy coating pairs beautifully with the strawberry powder, creating a delicate strawberry chocolate crunch in every bite. Because it is a true no bake dessert, I can make Strawberry Shortcake Puppy Chow in minutes, even on hot summer days. Every time I serve this pink sweet snack, it disappears faster than I expect.

Ingredients

4 cups Rice Chex or Corn Chex cereal (or Crispix)
1 cup white chocolate chips
1 ounce freeze-dried strawberries, ground into fine powder
1 cup powdered sugar (confectioners’ sugar)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Ingredients

Place the freeze-dried strawberries in a food processor and pulse until they form a fine powder. Make sure the texture is smooth and even. Next, combine the strawberry powder with the powdered sugar in a bowl. Stir until the mixture looks evenly pink, then transfer it into a 1-gallon freezer bag and seal it. Set the bag aside while you prepare the cereal and chocolate.

Cooking Instructions

Melt the white chocolate chips in the microwave using 30-second intervals, stirring after each interval until smooth. Pour the cereal into a large mixing bowl, then gently fold the melted chocolate over the cereal, coating each piece without crushing it. Immediately transfer the coated cereal into the prepared freezer bag. Seal the bag and gently shake until every piece is fully coated in the strawberry sugar mixture. Spread the coated cereal onto a baking sheet in an even layer and refrigerate for about 15 minutes to set the chocolate before serving.

Tips for Perfect Results

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Do not rush the chocolate melting process, because overheated white chocolate can turn thick and grainy. Stir carefully between short microwave intervals to keep it smooth. Also, avoid mixing too aggressively once you add the chocolate to the cereal. Heavy stirring breaks the cereal and creates uneven coating. Work gently and quickly so the mixture stays crisp and evenly covered.

Pro Tips for Better Flavor

For a stronger strawberry flavor, add an extra tablespoon of strawberry powder to the sugar mixture. You can also mix in a small handful of crushed freeze-dried strawberries after coating for added texture. If you want a sweeter finish, sift a light extra dusting of powdered sugar over the cooled mix just before serving to give it a bakery-style look.

Serving and Storage

How to Serve

Serve Strawberry Shortcake Puppy Chow in a large bowl for gatherings or portion it into small treat bags for parties and holidays. It works beautifully on dessert tables, especially for baby showers, Valentine’s Day, or spring celebrations. The bright pink color makes it eye-catching, while the sweet crunch keeps everyone reaching for more.

How to Store Leftovers

Store the puppy chow in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. Keep it away from humidity to maintain the crisp texture. Avoid refrigerating once fully set, because moisture in the fridge can soften the powdered coating and make it sticky instead of powdery.

Conclusion

Strawberry Shortcake Puppy Chow takes everything you love about a classic muddy buddies recipe and gives it a fruity, playful twist. It requires only a few simple ingredients and comes together quickly without turning on the oven. Whether you make it for a party or just to satisfy a sweet craving, this easy no bake dessert always delivers bright flavor and satisfying crunch.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh strawberries instead of freeze-dried?

Fresh strawberries contain too much moisture, which will make the coating sticky and ruin the crisp texture. Freeze-dried strawberries work best because they blend into a fine powder without adding liquid.

Can I use a different cereal?

Rice Chex, Corn Chex, and Crispix work best because their grid shape holds the coating evenly. Other cereals may break easily or fail to hold the chocolate mixture properly.

Can I make this ahead of time for a party?

Yes, you can prepare Strawberry Shortcake Puppy Chow several days in advance. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature, and it will stay fresh and crunchy for up to one week.