I love simple treats that feel fancy. Blueberry Lemon Cheesecake Puppy Chow has bright lemon and soft blueberry notes wrapped in white chocolate and peanut butter. I make it when I want a sweet snack that feels like a hug.
Gathering Your Ingredients
- 9 cups of Rice Chex cereal
- 1 cup of white chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup of creamy peanut butter
- 1/4 cup of unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon of lemon zest
- 1/2 cup of crushed blueberries
- 1 cup of powdered sugar
The Tools That Help
I keep this recipe simple by using tools I already own. A large bowl makes it easy to hold all the cereal. I use a microwave safe bowl to melt the chocolate and peanut butter. A spatula helps me stir the hot mix so it does not stick. A large resealable bag makes coating with powdered sugar quick and neat. I also use a baking sheet to spread the mix out to cool.
If you like lemon and blueberry in small bites, you might enjoy my healthy mini lemon blueberry cheesecakes for another bright and easy treat. They pair well for a party with this puppy chow.
The Step-by-Step Process
- Measure the Rice Chex cereal into a large bowl and set aside.
- Melt the white chocolate chips, creamy peanut butter, and unsalted butter in a microwave safe bowl, stirring every 30 seconds until smooth.
- Stir the lemon zest and crushed blueberries into the melted mix until well blended.
- Pour the melted mixture over the Rice Chex and stir gently to coat each piece.
- Transfer the coated cereal to a large resealable bag and add the powdered sugar.
- Shake the bag until the cereal is evenly coated with powdered sugar.
- Spread the coated puppy chow on a baking sheet to cool and set.
- Let it cool for at least 15 minutes before serving so the coating firms up.
- Store at room temperature or in the fridge depending on preference.
Lighter, Healthier Touches
I like to offer options for lighter versions that still taste good. You can cut the powdered sugar a little and toss with a smaller amount so the mix is less sweet. You can swap out half of the Rice Chex for bran or oat cereal to add fiber. I also test a version where I stir in a few spoonfuls of plain Greek yogurt with the crushed blueberries before warming. It adds cream and tang without too many extra sweet bits. For a protein boost I sometimes mix in small amounts of the blueberry cheesecake protein bites to add texture and a touch of protein to the bowl and make it more filling. Try the blueberry cheesecake protein bites if you want that extra lift.
Perfect Pairings
Serve this puppy chow with a bright drink to match. A chilled lemon iced tea adds clear citrus that echoes the lemon zest. Soft milk or a cold oat milk pairs well since it tones down the sugar and brings a smooth note. For a party I like to offer small bowls and a platter of fresh berries on the side. The fresh fruit keeps the snack from feeling too heavy. You can also offer small shortbread cookies for a crunchy contrast that still feels cozy.
Common Stumbles to Avoid
I see three main slip ups when people try this recipe for the first time. First, do not overheat the chocolate mixture. Heat in short bursts and stir between each burst so it melts smooth and does not burn. Second, do not add too much liquid blueberry juice. Use crushed blueberries that are fairly dry or drain them a little. Too much juice makes the coating loose. Third, do not skip the shake step. The powdered sugar must spread evenly. If you try to spoon the sugar on, you will not get every piece nicely coated.
Storing Your Creation
I like to store the puppy chow in an airtight container. At room temperature it stays good for about three to five days. If I want it to last longer I put the bowl in the fridge and it lasts up to two weeks. If the coating gets soft in the fridge, let the mix sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving so the flavors open up. For travel I pack it in a sealable bag and press out extra air so the pieces do not crush.
A Final Warm Word
I make Blueberry Lemon Cheesecake Puppy Chow when I want a bright snack that is easy to share. It takes minutes to make and it always brings smiles. Make it for a small crowd or keep a bowl for yourself. I hope you enjoy the simple joy of this mix.
Answering Your Questions
How long does Blueberry Lemon Cheesecake Puppy Chow stay fresh?
At room temperature in an airtight container it keeps well for three to five days. In the fridge it can last up to two weeks. Let it warm at room temperature a bit before serving if the coating feels firm.
Can I make Blueberry Lemon Cheesecake Puppy Chow nut free?
Yes. You can swap the creamy peanut butter with a seed butter like sunflower seed butter. The flavor changes a bit but the texture stays similar. Make sure your substitute is safe for anyone with nut allergies before serving.
Can I freeze Blueberry Lemon Cheesecake Puppy Chow?
You can freeze it for up to one month in a well sealed bag or container. Thaw it in the fridge and then bring it to room temperature before serving. Freezing can change the texture slightly, so I often prefer to keep it chilled instead of frozen.
Print
Blueberry Lemon Cheesecake Puppy Chow
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A simple yet fancy treat featuring bright lemon and soft blueberry notes wrapped in white chocolate and peanut butter.
Ingredients
- 9 cups Rice Chex cereal
- 1 cup white chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1/2 cup crushed blueberries
- 1 cup powdered sugar
Instructions
- Measure the Rice Chex cereal into a large bowl and set aside.
- Melt the white chocolate chips, creamy peanut butter, and unsalted butter in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every 30 seconds until smooth.
- Stir the lemon zest and crushed blueberries into the melted mix until well blended.
- Pour the melted mixture over the Rice Chex and stir gently to coat each piece.
- Transfer the coated cereal to a large resealable bag and add the powdered sugar.
- Shake the bag until the cereal is evenly coated with powdered sugar.
- Spread the coated puppy chow on a baking sheet to cool and set.
- Let it cool for at least 15 minutes before serving so the coating firms up.
Notes
Store at room temperature for 3 to 5 days or in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. Can be frozen for up to one month.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: puppy chow, blueberry, lemon, snack, dessert