Easy Strawberry Shortcake Puppy Chow

I stumbled upon a deliciously fun twist on classic Puppy Chow—this Strawberry Shortcake version wraps crunchy cereal in white chocolate and strawberry-jello sweetness. It’s super easy, vibrant, and perfect for snack cravings or sharing at gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how simple and quick this treat is: just cereal, white chocolate, and strawberry jello powder. It only takes about 15 minutes to throw together, and the combination of creamy white chocolate with bright strawberry flavor makes it irresistible. It’s light enough to munch on anytime, whether I’m binge-watching shows or entertaining friends.

Ingredients

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

• 5 cups Rice Chex cereal

• 1 big packet of strawberry Jell-O mix

• 1 cup powdered sugar

• 1½ cups white chocolate chips

• ¼ cup butter

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 1 cup freeze-dried strawberries, crushed (optional)

Directions

1. In a large bowl, add the Rice Chex and set aside.

2. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the white chocolate chips and butter in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth. Stir in the vanilla extract.

3. Pour this mixture over the Chex and gently toss until the cereal is evenly coated.

4. In a separate bowl, combine strawberry jello mix and powdered sugar.

5. Transfer the coated cereal into a large resealable bag, add the jello-sugar mix, seal, then shake until fully coated.

6. Spread the Puppy Chow on a baking sheet to cool and harden. Sprinkle the crushed freeze-dried strawberries on top, if using.

Servings and timing

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Cook time: 5 minutes

• Total time: 15 minutes

• Yields: About 8 servings

Variations

• I sometimes swap freeze-dried strawberries for homemade strawberry powder for extra flavor and color.

• White chocolate candy coating works well too, and I skip the butter when using it.

• Corn Chex or other gluten-free cereals can be used in place of Rice Chex.

storage/reheating

I store this snack in an airtight container at room temperature. It stays crunchy and tasty for several days. There’s no need for reheating—it’s ready to enjoy right out of the container.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! I’ve found it keeps well in a sealed container for several days at room temperature—perfect for prepping before events.

Is freeze-dried strawberry necessary?

Not necessary, but I like the vibrant pink and intensified strawberry flavor it adds. You can skip it or crush fresh freeze-dried strawberries into powder.

Can I use white chocolate candy melts?

Absolutely! Candy melts work fine—just leave out the butter since they melt smoothly on their own.

Is this gluten-free?

Yes—as long as I use gluten-free Rice or Corn Chex (both are typically gluten-free).

How do I get the cereal evenly coated?

I toss the coated cereal in a sealed freezer bag with the powdered mixture—it helps coat every piece without breaking them.

Conclusion

This Strawberry Shortcake Puppy Chow is one of my favorite quick treats: easy to make, sweet and crunchy, and perfect for sharing. Whether I’m hosting a get-together or just craving a snack, this colorful twist on a classic always hits the spot. Enjoy—and trust me, it disappears fast!