Looking for a quick and refreshing snack that’s bursting with citrusy goodness? This Zesty Lemonade Puppy Chow is sunshine in a bowl! Made with crunchy Rice Chex cereal, creamy white chocolate, and a zesty lemon-sugar coating, this snack is perfect for summer picnics, party tables, or cozy movie nights at home.
I first made this for a backyard BBQ, and it was gone before the burgers hit the grill. It’s fun, easy, and kid-friendly — and it only takes 10 minutes to throw together!
Why You’ll Love This Puppy Chow
Quick & Easy to Make: No baking, no fancy tools — just melt, mix, and shake!
Full of Bright Lemon Flavor: Thanks to lemon zest, juice, and pudding mix, every bite is tangy and sweet.
Perfect for Sharing: It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for kids and adults alike.
Great for Summer: A citrus-forward snack that feels light, cheerful, and totally addictive.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Rice Chex Cereal: The perfect crunchy base that holds the coating without getting soggy.
- White Chocolate Chips: Melts down smooth and adds a creamy sweetness to balance the lemon.
- Unsalted Butter: A small amount makes the chocolate easier to melt and blend.
- Fresh Lemon Juice & Zest: Adds real, natural citrus punch. Always use fresh!
- Powdered Sugar & Lemon Pudding Mix: The key to that fluffy, tangy-sweet coating that defines this snack.
Optional Swaps & Tips
- No Rice Chex? Corn Chex or Crispix are great substitutes.
- Vegan Option: Use plant-based white chocolate and vegan butter.
- More Zest? Feel free to sprinkle in extra zest or a drop of lemon extract for bold citrus fans!
Tools You’ll Need
- Large Mixing Bowl: For easy tossing without making a mess.
- Microwave-Safe Bowl: To melt your lemon-chocolate mixture fast.
- Resealable Plastic Bag: Makes coating with sugar and pudding mix a breeze.
- Parchment Paper (Optional): Great for cooling and easy cleanup.
How to Make Zesty Lemonade Puppy Chow
Step 1: Prep the Cereal
Add 9 cups of Rice Chex cereal to a large bowl. Set aside.
Step 2: Make the Lemony Coating
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine:
- 1½ cups white chocolate chips
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp lemon zest
- 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice
Microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring in between, until fully melted and smooth.
Step 3: Coat the Cereal
Pour the warm lemon mixture over the cereal. Use a spatula to gently fold until every piece is evenly coated.
Step 4: Shake with Powdered Goodness
In a large resealable plastic bag, combine:
- 1½ cups powdered sugar
- ½ cup lemon-flavored instant pudding mix
Add coated cereal to the bag, seal, and shake until fully coated. You can do this in batches if needed.
Step 5: Cool & Enjoy
Spread the puppy chow on parchment paper to cool completely. Once cooled, transfer to a serving bowl or store in an airtight container.
Tips for Success
- Melt Smoothly: Be patient while melting. Lumpy chocolate = uneven coating.
- Toss Gently: Don’t crush the cereal. Fold carefully to keep it whole.
- Coat Evenly: Shaking in smaller batches helps coat every bite perfectly.
How to Store It
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Fridge: Keeps fresh for up to 2 weeks — just let it sit at room temp before eating.
- Freezer: Store in freezer bags for up to 3 months. Thaw before serving.
FAQs
Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes! It stores beautifully, making it great for parties or gifting.
What if I don’t have lemon pudding mix?
You can try vanilla pudding mix and add extra lemon zest or extract for flavor.
Is it gluten-free?
Yes, if you use gluten-free Rice Chex and a certified gluten-free pudding mix.
Final Thoughts
This Zesty Lemonade Puppy Chow is the kind of snack that brings smiles instantly. It’s light, citrusy, sweet, and crunchy — and dangerously easy to eat by the handful. Whip up a batch for your next gathering or keep it stashed for those midday cravings. Either way, it’ll be a hit.
Don’t forget to pair it with a glass of lemonade for the ultimate citrus moment.