Can I use other cereals besides Rice Chex?

Yes! Corn Chex, Crispix, or even square puffed cereals like Golden Grahams work well.

Is this recipe safe for dogs?

Nope! Despite the name "puppy chow," this treat is for humans only. It contains chocolate and sugar, which are unsafe for dogs.

Yes—you can skip it or replace it with cream cheese flavoring or a spoonful of Greek yogurt for a tangy note.

Make sure not to use too much cream cheese or butter, and let it cool completely before storing to keep it crispy.

Stick with freeze-dried or dried cherries—fresh ones will add too much moisture and can make the mix soggy.

Almond or vanilla extract makes a great substitute! You can also try a drop of cherry gelatin powder for flavor.

Absolutely! Just make sure to mix everything in batches so you don’t crush the cereal.

Scale

Pour the Rice Chex into a large mixing bowl and set aside.
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine white chocolate chips, cream cheese, and butter. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until fully melted and smooth (about 1½ to 2 minutes total).
Stir in cheesecake pudding mix, cherry extract, and food coloring if using. Mix until smooth.
Pour the melted mixture over the cereal and gently toss to coat evenly without crushing the cereal.
Transfer the coated cereal to a large zip-top bag. Add powdered sugar, seal, and shake until the cereal is well coated.
Optionally mix in freeze-dried cherries and sprinkles once cooled.
Spread the puppy chow on a parchment-lined baking sheet and let cool completely before serving or storing.

Use almond or vanilla extract if you don’t have cherry. Great for Valentine’s Day, baby showers, or edible gifts!

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