Description
This Blueberry Lemon Cheesecake Puppy Chow is a no-bake, sweet and tangy snack mix that combines the crunch of Rice Chex cereal with creamy white chocolate, tangy cream cheese, and vibrant lemon flavor, enhanced by freeze-dried blueberries. It’s quick to prepare, requiring just 15 minutes, and perfect for snacking, gifting, or satisfying your sweet cravings without turning on the oven.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 6 cups Rice Chex cereal
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1/3 cup freeze-dried blueberries, crushed
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup white chocolate chips
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp salt
Instructions
- Prepare the chocolate mixture: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the white chocolate chips, softened cream cheese, and unsalted butter. Microwave in 20-30 second intervals, stirring in between, until the mixture is smooth and fully melted. Be careful not to overheat.
- Add flavorings: Stir in the fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, vanilla extract, and salt into the melted white chocolate mixture until well combined, creating a creamy, tangy cheesecake-flavored coating.
- Coat the cereal: Place the Rice Chex cereal in a large mixing bowl. Pour the white chocolate cheesecake mixture over the cereal. Gently fold and stir with a spatula to evenly coat all the cereal pieces without crushing them.
- Add powdered sugar and blueberries: Sprinkle the powdered sugar and crushed freeze-dried blueberries over the coated cereal. Carefully fold again to distribute the powdered sugar and blueberries evenly, creating a beautiful dusting and bursts of blueberry flavor throughout the mix.
- Cool and set: Spread the coated puppy chow onto a parchment-lined baking sheet or allow it to rest in the large bowl. Let it cool at room temperature or place in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes to allow the coating to firm up.
- Store and serve: Once set, store the puppy chow in an airtight container. It will keep fresh for several days, making it perfect for snacking or gifting.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened to achieve a smooth melting mixture.
- Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the best bright and tangy flavor.
- Be gentle when folding the cereal to prevent breaking or crushing it.
- Freeze-dried blueberries add a concentrated blueberry flavor without adding moisture.
- Store in an airtight container to maintain crunchiness for up to 3-5 days.