Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Measure out 12 cups of Chex cereal (rice or corn Chex work equally well) and pour it into a very large mixing bowl. Ensure the bowl is big enough to comfortably toss the cereal with the melted coating.12 cups Chex cereal (rice or corn)
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the white chocolate chips, strawberry-flavored candy melts, and unsalted butter. Microwave on 50% power for 30-second intervals, stirring well after each interval, until the mixture is completely melted and smooth. Be careful not to overheat the chocolate.1 cup white chocolate chips, ½ cup strawberry-flavored candy melts (or pink candy melts), 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Stir the vanilla extract and the optional strawberry extract into the melted white chocolate and candy melt mixture until fully incorporated. This step ensures your Fluffy Strawberry Shortcake Puppy Chow gets that authentic strawberry shortcake essence.1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon strawberry extract
- Pour the melted chocolate mixture evenly over the cereal in the large bowl. Gently toss and stir the cereal with a rubber spatula or large spoon until every piece is thoroughly coated. Work quickly but gently to avoid breaking the cereal pieces.12 cups Chex cereal (rice or corn)
- In a separate large zip-top bag or a clean bowl, combine the powdered sugar and the finely crushed freeze-dried strawberries. If you haven’t already, crush your freeze-dried strawberries by pulsing them in a food processor or by hand with a rolling pin inside a bag until they form a coarse powder.1 ½ cups powdered sugar, ½ cup freeze-dried strawberries, finely crushed
- Toss the white nonpareils or strawberry sprinkles into the powdered sugar and freeze-dried strawberry mixture. This adds both visual appeal and a delightful textural contrast to your Fluffy Strawberry Shortcake Puppy Chow.¼ cup white nonpareils or strawberry sprinkles
- Add the coated cereal mixture to the bag with the powdered sugar and freeze-dried strawberry mixture. Seal the bag tightly and gently shake it, or if using a bowl, carefully toss the coated cereal with the dusting mixture. Continue shaking or tossing until the cereal is evenly coated in the sweet, pink powder.1 ½ cups powdered sugar, ½ cup freeze-dried strawberries, finely crushed, ¼ cup white nonpareils or strawberry sprinkles
- Spread the coated Fluffy Strawberry Shortcake Puppy Chow in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Allow it to cool completely at room temperature for at least 15-20 minutes. This allows the chocolate coating to harden and the flavors to meld.
Notes
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. Can be frozen for 2-3 months.
