If you grew up loving the classic strawberry shortcake flavor — that mix of berries, cream, and vanilla sweetness — then you’re going to fall in love with Strawberry Shortcake Puppy Chow. This no-bake treat combines crunchy cereal, white chocolate, freeze-dried strawberries, and powdered sugar into one dangerously addictive snack mix.
The first time I made this, I was looking for something pink, pretty, and easy for Valentine’s Day. I melted some white chocolate, tossed in cereal and crushed strawberries, and when I coated it all in powdered sugar — I knew I’d created something special. My kids couldn’t stop sneaking handfuls! Now it’s a regular in our snack rotation, right next to my Birthday Cake Muddy Buddies and Cookies and Cream Snack Mix.
Strawberry Shortcake Puppy Chow
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Pour the cereal into a large mixing bowl. Crush freeze-dried strawberries in a food processor or zip-top bag until they’re powdery with small bits. Set aside.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt white chocolate chips and coconut oil in 20-second bursts, stirring in between until smooth. Stir in vanilla extract.
- Pour melted chocolate over the cereal and stir gently until evenly coated.
- Sprinkle the crushed strawberries and powdered sugar over the coated cereal. Toss everything together until fully covered and pink.
- Spread the puppy chow out on a baking sheet lined with parchment. Let it cool completely before storing.
- If desired, toss in crushed Golden Oreos or shortbread pieces once it’s cool for extra texture.
Nutrition
Notes
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Why You’ll Love Strawberry Shortcake Puppy Chow
This Strawberry Shortcake Puppy Chow is the ultimate sweet snack — crunchy, creamy, and bursting with strawberry flavor. It’s easy to make, fun to share, and totally customizable. Plus, it looks adorable in little treat bags for parties or holidays.
If you love no-bake desserts like my White Chocolate Pretzel Bark or Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Bites, this recipe fits perfectly in your quick-and-delicious lineup.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Puppy Chow:
- 6 cups Rice Chex or Corn Chex cereal
- 10 oz white chocolate chips (or vanilla candy melts)
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
- 1 cup freeze-dried strawberries, crushed
- 1½ cups powdered sugar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: ½ cup crushed Golden Oreos or shortbread cookies for that “shortcake” feel
Optional Add-ins:
- Pink or red candy melts for color
- Mini marshmallows
- Extra strawberry bits for topping
If you love pink desserts that look as good as they taste, you’ll also adore my Strawberry Cheesecake Dip — another no-bake favorite.
How to Make Strawberry Shortcake Puppy Chow
Step 1: Prep the Base
Pour the cereal into a large mixing bowl. Crush freeze-dried strawberries in a food processor or zip-top bag until they’re powdery with small bits. Set aside.
Step 2: Melt the Chocolate
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt white chocolate chips and coconut oil in 20-second bursts, stirring in between until smooth. Stir in vanilla extract.
Step 3: Coat the Cereal
Pour melted chocolate over the cereal and stir gently until evenly coated.
Step 4: Add Strawberry and Sugar Magic
Sprinkle the crushed strawberries and powdered sugar over the coated cereal. Toss everything together until fully covered and pink.
Step 5: Cool and Enjoy
Spread the puppy chow out on a baking sheet lined with parchment. Let it cool completely before storing.
Step 6: Optional “Shortcake” Crunch
If you want more texture, toss in crushed Golden Oreos or shortbread pieces once it’s cool.
If you love simple desserts that come together in minutes, this one’s as easy and crowd-pleasing as my Pistachio Chocolate Bar Cookies.
Tips for Perfect Strawberry Shortcake Puppy Chow
- Use freeze-dried strawberries: They give intense flavor and color without sogginess.
- Don’t overheat chocolate: Melt gently so it stays smooth.
- Work fast: The coating sets quickly once mixed.
- Double the batch: It disappears fast — trust me.
These same quick tricks make my Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole easy and fail-proof every time.
How to Store and Gift
Storage: Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Freezing: Not recommended — it loses crunch.
Gifting: Divide into small cellophane bags, tie with ribbon, and you’ve got the cutest edible gift for birthdays, baby showers, or holidays.
Like my Christmas Bread Recipe, this treat makes a lovely homemade gift that feels special but takes no time at all.
Flavor Variations
- Chocolate Strawberry: Drizzle melted milk chocolate over the top once cooled.
- Lemon Shortcake: Add lemon zest to the chocolate for a citrus twist.
- Birthday Cake Mix: Swap strawberries for sprinkles and cake mix powder.
- Valentine’s Mix: Add heart candies or pink M&Ms for a festive touch.
If you love recipes you can customize for any season, this one’s as versatile as my Hearty Pasta Fagioli Soup.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use white candy melts instead of chocolate chips?
Yes! Candy melts work great — just add a drop of vanilla extract for flavor.
2. Can I make this with regular strawberries?
No — fresh berries will make it soggy. Stick to freeze-dried.
3. How long does it stay crunchy?
About 4–5 days in a sealed container, though it rarely lasts that long!
4. Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes — just use gluten-free Chex cereal and cookies.
The Final Bite
This Strawberry Shortcake Puppy Chow is everything a dessert snack should be — crunchy, sweet, and bursting with strawberry flavor. It’s perfect for parties, holidays, or just a fun kitchen project. Every handful tastes like summer meets celebration!
Serve it in cute jars or snack cups for parties, or pair it with my Hot Cocoa Mix Recipe for a cozy movie-night combo.