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Zesty Lemonade Puppy Chow Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 92 reviews

Lemonade Puppy Chow is a delightful and refreshing no-bake summer snack that combines crispy rice cereal squares with a zesty lemon twist. Coated in a creamy white chocolate and butter mixture infused with fresh lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla, then dusted with powdered sugar, this treat offers a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and crunchy textures. Easy to make and full of vibrant citrus flavor, it’s ideal for gatherings, snacking, or dessert.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Base

  • 4 cups Crispy Rice Cereal Squares (Use your favorite brand for the best taste)
  • 1 cup Powdered Sugar (Can substitute with granulated sugar)

For the Coating

  • 1 cup White Chocolate Chips (Opt for dairy-free chocolate for a vegan option)
  • 1/4 cup Butter (Can replace with coconut oil for a dairy-free option)

For Flavor

  • 1 tablespoon Lemon Zest (Always use fresh zest for the most robust taste)
  • 1/4 cup Lemon Juice (Freshly squeezed juice is preferred)
  • 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Try almond extract for a fun alternative)

Optional Additions

  • A few drops Yellow Food Coloring (Brightens the appearance but optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Cereal: Place the crispy rice cereal squares into a large mixing bowl with enough space to stir gently without spilling. This will be the base of your Lemonade Puppy Chow.
  2. Melt Mixture: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the white chocolate chips and butter. Heat the mixture in 30-second bursts at medium power, stirring vigorously between each interval until fully melted and smooth. Be careful not to overheat to avoid scorching the chocolate.
  3. Combine Ingredients: Add the lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, vanilla extract, and yellow food coloring (if using) to the melted chocolate mixture. Stir thoroughly to create a fragrant, cohesive lemon-flavored coating.
  4. Coat Cereal: Pour the lemony chocolate mixture over the cereal in the mixing bowl. Using a spatula, fold gently to coat each piece evenly while maintaining the cereal’s crispy texture.
  5. Powder Sugar Coating: Pour the powdered sugar into a large resealable plastic bag. Add the coated cereal in batches, seal the bag tightly, and shake gently until each piece is fully coated with powdered sugar.
  6. Cool and Set: Spread the coated cereal on a sheet of wax paper or parchment-lined baking sheet. Allow it to cool and set for about 30 minutes so the chocolate firms up and flavors meld.

Notes

  • Always zest the lemon before juicing to capture the vibrant oils for maximum flavor.
  • Use fresh lemon juice and zest whenever possible for the best zesty taste.
  • Heat white chocolate in short bursts and stir frequently to prevent scorching.
  • Coat cereal in small batches with powdered sugar to ensure even coverage and avoid clumping.
  • Allow the mixture to cool completely before storing to maintain crunchiness and prevent stickiness.
  • Store Lemonade Puppy Chow in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, in the fridge for up to 1 week, or freeze for up to 2 months.
  • If chilled, let the treat come to room temperature for 15–20 minutes before serving to regain its crisp texture.

Keywords: lemonade puppy chow, lemon snack, white chocolate puppy chow, no bake dessert, lemon dessert, sweet and tangy snack, spring dessert, summer treat

Find it online: https://biteandenjoy.com/zesty-lemonade-puppy-chow-recipe/