Lemon Puppy Chow

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Lemon Puppy Chow is a zesty twist on the classic sweet snack mix, featuring a bright lemon flavor that pairs perfectly with the crunchy cereal base. Coated in white chocolate, lemon zest, and powdered sugar, this no-bake treat is irresistibly tangy and sweet. It’s perfect for parties, gifts, or a quick treat to satisfy citrus cravings.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Rice Chex cerealwhite chocolate chipsunsalted butterlemon zestlemon juicevanilla extractpowdered sugar

directions

Place the Rice Chex cereal in a large mixing bowl and set aside.

In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the white chocolate chips and butter together in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth.

Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract into the melted mixture.

Pour the lemon-chocolate mixture over the cereal and gently toss to coat all pieces evenly.

Add the powdered sugar to a large zip-top bag, then transfer the coated cereal into the bag.

Seal the bag and shake vigorously until all the cereal pieces are well coated with powdered sugar.

Spread the Lemon Puppy Chow out onto a baking sheet to cool and set for about 10–15 minutes.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields about 8 cups of Lemon Puppy Chow.Preparation time: 10 minutesSetting time: 15 minutesTotal time: 25 minutes

Variations

Use lemon extract instead of lemon juice for a more intense citrus flavor.

Add a few drops of yellow food coloring to the melted mixture for a more vibrant look.

Mix in dried blueberries or raspberries for a fruity twist.

Use gluten-free cereal to make this snack gluten-free.

Try orange or lime zest for a different citrus version.

storage/reheating

Store Lemon Puppy Chow in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.For longer storage, keep it in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.No reheating is necessary—enjoy straight from the container.

FAQs

What type of cereal works best?

Rice Chex or Corn Chex are ideal due to their light texture and ability to hold the coating.

Can I use candy melts instead of white chocolate?

Yes, candy melts can be used, but white chocolate offers a richer flavor.

Is this the same as “muddy buddies”?

Yes, Puppy Chow and Muddy Buddies are different names for the same basic snack with flavor variations.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Use dairy-free white chocolate and butter alternatives to make it dairy-free.

How do I prevent clumps?

Mix the cereal gently and shake in small batches to ensure even coating.

Can I freeze Lemon Puppy Chow?

Yes, it can be frozen in a sealed bag for up to 2 months. Let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.

Is this recipe safe for dogs?

No, despite the name, this treat is not for dogs—it contains chocolate and sugar.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely, just be sure to mix in a large enough bowl and shake in batches.

Can I use bottled lemon juice?

Fresh lemon juice is best for flavor, but bottled can be used in a pinch.

Is it messy to eat?

It can be a little powdery, so napkins are helpful!

Conclusion

Lemon Puppy Chow brings a refreshing burst of citrus to your snack table with its tangy, sweet crunch in every bite. Quick to make and fun to eat, it’s perfect for citrus lovers and ideal for any casual gathering or treat jar. One handful won’t be enough!

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