Lemonade Puppy Chow Snack Mix (Print Version)

Sweet white chocolate and fresh lemon coat crispy cereal squares in this zesty twist on the classic snack mix.

# What You Need:

→ Base

01 - 6 cups rice cereal squares (such as Chex)

→ Coating

02 - 1 cup white chocolate chips
03 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
04 - 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
05 - 1 tablespoon lemon zest (from about 1 large lemon)

→ Powdered Mix

06 - 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
07 - 1/4 cup instant lemonade drink mix (unsweetened)

# Directions:

01 - Line a large baking sheet with parchment or wax paper.
02 - Place the rice cereal squares in a large mixing bowl.
03 - In a microwave-safe bowl, combine white chocolate chips and butter. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth and fully melted (about 1 to 1 1/2 minutes total).
04 - Stir in lemon juice and lemon zest until fully incorporated.
05 - Pour the melted mixture over the cereal. Gently fold with a spatula until all pieces are evenly coated.
06 - In a large zip-top bag, combine powdered sugar and instant lemonade mix.
07 - Add the coated cereal to the bag. Seal and shake vigorously until all pieces are well-coated.
08 - Spread the puppy chow onto the prepared baking sheet to cool and set for about 10 minutes.
09 - Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • The bright lemon flavor cuts through the sweetness making it impossible to stop at just one handful
  • It comes together in fifteen minutes flat but tastes like something from a fancy bakery
02 -
  • Moisture is the enemy of puppy chow. Any humidity will make the coating melt and turn the cereal soggy within hours.
  • Shake the bag more vigorously than you think you need to. Those stubborn dry spots will not coat themselves.
03 -
  • Use a microplane or fine grater for the lemon zest to avoid any bitter white pith
  • Room temperature cereal works better than cold cereal for coating evenly