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Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow

Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow: Irresistibly Sweet No-Bake Treat

Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow combines creamy cheesecake and tart cherry flavors for a perfect no-bake dessert treat.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 2 minutes
Cooling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 47 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Course: Desserts
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Puppy Chow
  • 5 cups rice cereal squares opt for gluten-free if needed
  • 1 cup white chocolate chips dark chocolate can enhance flavor
  • 8 oz cream cheese softened
  • 1/2 cup cherry pie filling fresh cherries can be used if drained and finely chopped
  • 1 cup powdered sugar can be partially replaced with a sugar substitute for a healthier option
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract use pure extract for the best taste
  • 1 cup graham cracker crumbs can be substituted with crushed nuts for added crunch
Optional Variations
  • 1/2 cup sugar substitute for a lighter dessert
  • 1/2 cup chopped nuts for a nutty twist

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowl
  • Microwave-safe Bowl
  • Spatula
  • resealable plastic bag
  • Baking sheet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large mixing bowl, pour in 5 cups of rice cereal squares, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
  2. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the white chocolate chips and softened cream cheese. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until the mixture is smooth and creamy, about 1-2 minutes total.
  3. Stir in 1/2 cup of cherry pie filling and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract into the melted chocolate mixture. Mix thoroughly until well-combined.
  4. Pour the creamy cherry mixture over the rice cereal in the mixing bowl. Gently fold with a spatula until every piece is evenly coated.
  5. Transfer the coated cereal mixture into a large resealable plastic bag. Add 1 cup of powdered sugar to the bag, seal it tightly, and shake vigorously until the cereal is generously coated.
  6. Spread the mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and allow it to cool and set at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
  7. Once cooled, sprinkle graham cracker crumbs generously over the top.
  8. Transfer your Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow into an airtight container to keep it fresh, storing it in a cool, dry place for up to one week.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 34gProtein: 2gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 55mgPotassium: 50mgFiber: 1gSugar: 23gVitamin A: 200IUCalcium: 30mgIron: 0.5mg

Notes

Ensure cream cheese is adequately softened before mixing; lumps can ruin the texture. For deeper cherry flavor, consider adding a splash of cherry extract along with the pie filling. Portioning into smaller servings helps manage its rich sweetness.

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