Introduction

Neapolitan Puppy Chow is a delightful twist on the classic snack mix, inspired by the beloved ice cream trio of strawberry, chocolate, and vanilla. This treat combines colorful layers coated in rich chocolate, sweet white chocolate, and fruity strawberry flavors, making it perfect for parties or a fun snack time.

A white bowl filled with three types of square-shaped cereal pieces arranged side by side. On the left, there are pink cereal pieces with a grid texture. In the center, there are dark brown chocolate cereal pieces lightly dusted with white powdered sugar, showing a small grid pattern. On the right, there are light beige cereal pieces with the same grid texture. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface with gold streaks. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

9 cups rice Chex cereal, divided into 3 bowls (3 cups each)

1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips

1/2 cup white chocolate chips

1/2 cup freeze-dried strawberries

1 tbsp strawberry gelatin powder (like Jell-O)

1.5 cups powdered sugar, divided (1/2 cup per flavor)

3 tbsp butter, divided

1/4 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

Step 1: Crush the freeze-dried strawberries using a food processor until they become a fine powder.

Step 2: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt 1/2 cup white chocolate chips and 1 tablespoon butter in 20-second intervals, stirring between each until smooth. Stir in the strawberry gelatin powder and crushed strawberries to create the strawberry coating.

Step 3: Pour the strawberry mixture over 3 cups of rice Chex cereal in a mixing bowl. Gently stir to coat all pieces evenly.

Step 4: Transfer the coated cereal into a zip-top bag with 1/2 cup powdered sugar. Seal and shake until fully coated.

Step 5: In another microwave-safe bowl, melt 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips and 1 tablespoon butter in 20-second intervals, stirring until smooth.

Step 6: Pour the chocolate mixture over a second 3-cup portion of rice Chex cereal and stir gently to coat evenly.

Step 7: Place the chocolate-coated cereal into a zip-top bag with 1/2 cup powdered sugar. Seal and shake well to cover all pieces.

Step 8: Melt 1/2 cup white chocolate chips with 1 tablespoon butter in a microwave-safe bowl. Stir in 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract until smooth to make the vanilla coating.

Step 9: Pour the vanilla mixture over the last 3 cups of rice Chex and stir gently to coat thoroughly.

Step 10: Add the coated cereal to a zip-top bag with the final 1/2 cup of powdered sugar. Seal and shake until evenly coated.

Step 11: After all coated layers have cooled, combine them in a large bowl. Gently toss to mix the strawberry, chocolate, and vanilla layers together. Serve immediately in a round bowl.

Tips & Variations

Use fresh freeze-dried strawberries for a stronger fruit flavor; you can substitute with freeze-dried raspberries if preferred.

Microwave chocolate gentle bursts prevent burning; stirring often ensures a smooth coating.

For extra crunch, add chopped nuts or mini marshmallows after coating the layers.

To keep the layers distinct and colorful, allow each coated section to cool completely before combining.

FAQs

Can I use other cereals instead of rice Chex?

Yes, you can substitute rice Chex with corn or wheat Chex, but rice Chex gives the best airy crunch and holds coatings well.

What if I don’t have freeze-dried strawberries?

If freeze-dried strawberries aren’t available, finely chopping dried strawberries works as an alternative, though the coating may be less smooth and vibrant.