Name: Easy Strawberry Shortcake Puppy Chow – No-Bake Snack
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 6 cups Rice or Corn Chex cereal; 1½ cups white chocolate chips; 1 cup freeze-dried strawberries; ¾ cup powdered sugar; Optional: 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Optional: pinch of salt

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I’ve taken the nostalgic charm of classic puppy chow and given it a fruity, summery twist with this Easy Strawberry Shortcake Puppy Chow. Each bite is coated in creamy white chocolate, tangy strawberry powder, and a dusting of powdered sugar for the perfect crunchy-sweet treat—no baking required.

Why I’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this recipe combines the best of both worlds: the crunch of cereal and the sweetness of white chocolate, with the fresh, bright flavor of strawberries. It’s quick, simple, and perfect for almost any occasion—whether I’m prepping a party snack, packing lunchbox treats, or enjoying a cozy movie night. I also appreciate that it’s a fun, mess-friendly recipe I can make with kids and that it uses just a handful of easy-to-find ingredients. Easy Strawberry Shortcake Puppy Chow – No-Bake Snack

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Rice or Corn Chex cereal (about 6 cups)
White chocolate chips (1½ cups)
Freeze-dried strawberries (1 cup)
Powdered sugar (¾ cup)
Optional: vanilla extract (1 teaspoon)
Optional: pinch of salt

Directions

I line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prepare for cooling later.
I place the white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring each time, until fully melted and smooth. If I’m using vanilla extract, I stir it in now.
I crush the freeze-dried strawberries into a fine powder using a food processor or blender, then set them aside.
I pour the Chex cereal into a large mixing bowl and drizzle the melted white chocolate over it. I gently fold with a spatula until every piece is coated.
I sprinkle the powdered freeze-dried strawberries over the coated cereal and mix again until evenly distributed.
I transfer the mixture into a large zip-top bag, add the powdered sugar, seal, and shake until all pieces are coated.
I spread the puppy chow onto the prepared baking sheet and let it cool for about 10 minutes until the coating is set.
I serve immediately or store for later.

Servings and timing

Servings: About 10 (½ cup each)
Timing:
- Prep: 10 minutes
- Mixing and coating: 5 minutes
- Total: 15 minutes

Variations

I swap freeze-dried strawberries for freeze-dried raspberries or blueberries for a different fruity twist.
I add mini marshmallows or chopped nuts after the powdered sugar step for extra texture.
I drizzle melted milk or dark chocolate over the cooled mix for a layered flavor.
I use gluten-free Chex for a gluten-free version.

storage/reheating

I store my strawberry shortcake puppy chow in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. I avoid refrigerating it, as that can make it soggy. If I want to keep it longer, I freeze it in a zip-top freezer bag for up to 2 months, letting it thaw at room temperature for about 10 minutes before serving. Reheating isn’t necessary, but if it ever loses its crunch, I warm it on a baking sheet in a 250°F (120°C) oven for about 5 minutes, then let it cool.

FAQs

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, I simply use dairy-free white chocolate chips and double-check that my cereal is also dairy-free.

Can I make it without a food processor?

Yes, I place the freeze-dried strawberries in a zip-top bag and crush them with a rolling pin until they’re powdery.

Can I prepare this in advance?

Absolutely—I often make it a day or two before an event and store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh.

Can I reduce the sugar?

I can cut the powdered sugar slightly, but it’s essential for coating the cereal and balancing flavors.

Can I add mix-ins?

Yes—once cooled, I like adding mini marshmallows, pretzel sticks, or candy-coated chocolates for extra variety.

Conclusion

I think this Easy Strawberry Shortcake Puppy Chow is the ultimate no-bake snack for when I want something quick, crunchy, and bursting with flavor. It’s sweet but balanced with that tangy strawberry touch, and it’s just as perfect for a sunny picnic as it is for a winter movie marathon. It’s one of those recipes I know will disappear fast—so I often make a double batch just to be safe.