Introduction
Strawberry Shortcake Puppy Chow is a fun, no-bake dessert snack that puts a fruity, pastel twist on the classic muddy buddies everyone loves. Coated in creamy white chocolate, dusted with strawberry-flavored powder, and finished with a sweet vanilla-cake touch, this snack mix tastes just like strawberry shortcake in crunchy, bite-sized form.
What makes this puppy chow so irresistible is its balance of flavors and textures. The crisp cereal base delivers the perfect crunch, while the white chocolate coating adds richness without overpowering the bright strawberry flavor. A blend of powdered sugar and strawberry cake mix creates that iconic “shortcake” sweetness and gives the snack its beautiful pink hue.
This recipe is incredibly popular for holidays, parties, Valentine’s Day, baby showers, movie nights, and gift bags. It comes together quickly with minimal ingredients and zero baking, making it perfect for last-minute treats or stress-free entertaining. Best of all, it stores well and stays crunchy, so you can make it ahead without worry.
If you’re looking for a playful, crowd-pleasing snack that looks just as good as it tastes, Strawberry Shortcake Puppy Chow is guaranteed to be a hit.
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Strawberry Shortcake Puppy Chow (Sweet, Pink No-Bake Snack)
Ingredients
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8 cups Rice Chex cereal
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1 ½ cups white chocolate chips
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¼ cup unsalted butter
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1 (3 oz) box strawberry-flavored gelatin powder (dry)
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1 cup powdered sugar
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½ cup strawberry cake mix (dry, heat-treated)
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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Optional: freeze-dried strawberries, crushed
Instructions
Place the Rice Chex cereal into a large mixing bowl. Set aside, making sure the cereal is dry and ready to coat.
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine white chocolate chips and butter. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until fully melted and smooth. Stir in vanilla extract.
Pour the melted white chocolate mixture over the cereal. Gently fold with a spatula until all pieces are evenly coated, being careful not to crush the cereal.
In a large zip-top bag or separate bowl, mix powdered sugar, strawberry gelatin powder, and strawberry cake mix. Add the coated cereal, seal, and shake gently until every piece is fully coated and pink.
Spread the puppy chow onto parchment paper and allow it to cool completely for 20–30 minutes. Sprinkle with crushed freeze-dried strawberries if desired. Once set, break apart and serve.
Notes
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Heat-treat dry cake mix before using for safety.
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Stir gently to avoid breaking cereal.
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Allow full cooling time for best texture.
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Store in a cool, dry place to maintain crunch.
Ingredients
8 cups Rice Chex cereal
1 ½ cups white chocolate chips
¼ cup unsalted butter
1 (3 oz) box strawberry-flavored gelatin powder (dry)
1 cup powdered sugar
½ cup strawberry cake mix (dry, heat-treated)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional: freeze-dried strawberries, crushed
Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the Cereal
Place the Rice Chex cereal into a large mixing bowl. Set aside, making sure the cereal is dry and ready to coat.
Step 2: Melt the White Chocolate
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine white chocolate chips and butter. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until fully melted and smooth. Stir in vanilla extract.
Step 3: Coat the Cereal
Pour the melted white chocolate mixture over the cereal. Gently fold with a spatula until all pieces are evenly coated, being careful not to crush the cereal.
Step 4: Add the Strawberry Coating
In a large zip-top bag or separate bowl, mix powdered sugar, strawberry gelatin powder, and strawberry cake mix. Add the coated cereal, seal, and shake gently until every piece is fully coated and pink.
Step 5: Cool and Set
Spread the puppy chow onto parchment paper and allow it to cool completely for 20–30 minutes. Sprinkle with crushed freeze-dried strawberries if desired. Once set, break apart and serve.
Variations
Extra Strawberry Flavor: Add strawberry extract to the white chocolate.
Chocolate Strawberry Version: Mix in white chocolate strawberry truffles.
Valentine’s Puppy Chow: Add heart-shaped sprinkles after coating.
Gluten-Free Option: Use certified gluten-free cereal and cake mix.
Crunchy Add-Ins: Mix in mini marshmallows or vanilla wafer pieces.
Cooking Notes
Heat-treat dry cake mix before using for safety.
Stir gently to avoid breaking cereal.
Allow full cooling time for best texture.
Store in a cool, dry place to maintain crunch.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Strawberry Shortcake Puppy Chow in decorative bowls, cupcake liners, or gift bags tied with ribbon. It’s perfect for parties, dessert tables, lunchbox treats, or sweet snack boards. Pair with lemonade, milk, or strawberry-flavored drinks for a fun themed spread.
Tips
Use parchment paper to prevent sticking while cooling.
Shake gently for even coating without breakage.
Double the recipe easily for large gatherings.
Keep away from heat to prevent melting.
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cooking Time
0 minutes (No-Bake)
Total Time
30 minutes
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)
Calories: 260
Protein: 3g
Sodium: 190mg
FAQs
Is Strawberry Shortcake Puppy Chow safe to eat with cake mix?
Yes, as long as the cake mix is heat-treated before use.
How long does puppy chow stay fresh?
Stored in an airtight container, it stays fresh for up to 5 days.
Can I freeze puppy chow?
Freezing is not recommended as condensation can soften the coating.
Can I use a different cereal?
Chex-style cereals work best for coating and crunch.
Conclusion
Strawberry Shortcake Puppy Chow is a colorful, no-bake snack that captures all the sweet, fruity charm of strawberry shortcake in an easy, crunchy form. With its creamy coating, pink strawberry dusting, and irresistible flavor, it’s the perfect treat for parties, holidays, or anytime you want a fun dessert snack that disappears fast. Once you make it, this playful puppy chow is sure to become a favorite.