Zesty Lemonade Puppy Chow Snack Recipe
Introduction
The Zesty Lemonade Puppy Chow is a quick and easy citrus-infused treat, perfect for summer gatherings or as a sweet snack to brighten your day. Made with Rice Chex cereal, white chocolate, lemon zest, and powdered sugar, this recipe delivers a delightful combination of crunch, tang, and sweetness.
Ingredients
- 9 cups Rice Chex cereal
- 1 ½ cups white chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 2 tablespoons lemon zest (freshly grated)
- 1 ½ cups powdered sugar
- ½ cup lemon-flavored instant pudding mix
Instructions
- Step 1: Place Rice Chex cereal in a large mixing bowl to have plenty of space for tossing.
- Step 2: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the white chocolate chips, unsalted butter, fresh lemon zest, and lemon juice. Microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring well after each, until melted and smooth.
- Step 3: Pour the warm lemon-chocolate mixture over the cereal. Gently fold with a spatula to coat every piece evenly without breaking the cereal.
- Step 4: In a large resealable plastic bag, mix together the powdered sugar and lemon-flavored pudding mix. Add the coated cereal, seal the bag tightly, and shake gently but thoroughly until the cereal is fully covered.
- Step 5: Spread the coated puppy chow onto parchment paper and allow it to cool completely so the coating sets. Serve immediately or store as desired.
Tips & Variations
- Substitute Rice Chex with Corn Chex or Crispix for a different crunch and flavor.
- For a vegan version, use dairy-free white chocolate chips and a plant-based butter substitute.
- To intensify the lemon flavor, add extra fresh lemon zest or a drop of lemon extract to the melted mixture.
- Work quickly when coating the cereal to prevent the chocolate mixture from hardening and clumping.
- Shake the powdered sugar mixture gently but thoroughly to keep the cereal pieces intact while ensuring an even coating.
Storage
Store the puppy chow in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain its crunch. For longer freshness, refrigerate in a sealed container for up to 2 weeks; let it sit at room temperature briefly before serving to soften the coating slightly. You can also freeze the snack in resealable bags for up to 3 months, thawing at room temperature before enjoying.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! This snack stores well in airtight containers and makes a convenient make-ahead treat for parties or busy days.
Can I use other cereal brands besides Rice Chex?
Yes, Corn Chex, Crispix, or similar crunchy cereals with sturdy textures work equally well for this recipe.
PrintZesty Lemonade Puppy Chow Snack Recipe
The Zesty Lemonade Puppy Chow is a quick and easy citrus-infused snack that combines crunchy Rice Chex cereal with a creamy white chocolate and tangy lemon coating, finished with a sweet powdered lemon sugar dusting. Perfect for summer gatherings or as a bright, refreshing treat, this no-bake recipe is bursting with lemon zest and juice, making it delightfully tangy and sweet.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Snack
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Core Ingredients
- 9 cups Rice Chex cereal
- 1 ½ cups white chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons freshly grated lemon zest
- 1 ½ cups powdered sugar
- ½ cup lemon-flavored instant pudding mix
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Measure and set up all your ingredients. Place 9 cups of Rice Chex cereal in a large mixing bowl for easy coating later. Have the white chocolate chips, butter, fresh lemon juice, and zest ready for the next step to ensure smooth preparation.
- Make the Lemon-Chocolate Mixture: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine 1 ½ cups white chocolate chips, 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, 2 tablespoons lemon zest, and 3 tablespoons lemon juice. Microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring thoroughly after each, until fully melted and smooth. Stir well to blend flavors evenly.
- Coat the Cereal: Slowly pour the warm lemon-chocolate mixture over the Rice Chex cereal in the mixing bowl. Gently fold and toss the cereal with a spatula to coat each piece evenly without breaking the cereal.
- Add the Sugary Coating: In a large resealable plastic bag, mix 1 ½ cups powdered sugar and ½ cup lemon-flavored pudding mix. Add the coated cereal to the bag, seal tightly, and shake vigorously until the cereal is completely covered in the powdered lemon-sugar mixture. For best results, shake in batches to prevent clumping.
- Cool and Serve: Spread the coated cereal onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and let it cool completely so the coating sets and the snack stays crunchy. Once cooled, transfer to a serving bowl or store in an airtight container for up to five days.
Notes
- Substitute Rice Chex with Corn Chex or Crispix for a different but equally crunchy texture.
- For extra lemon flavor, add more fresh lemon zest or a dash of lemon extract.
- Store the puppy chow in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain freshness and crunch.
- Use dairy-free white chocolate and plant-based butter to make this snack vegan-friendly.
Keywords: Zesty Lemonade Puppy Chow, lemon snack, no-bake snack, white chocolate puppy chow, lemon dessert, crunchy lemon treat, Rice Chex snack
