Irresistible Banana Pudding Rice Krispies Treats
If you’re craving a dessert that’s creamy, crunchy, and delightful all at once, you absolutely must try Banana Pudding Rice Krispies. This irresistible treat combines the nostalgic crunch of classic Rice Krispies with the smooth, sweet essence of banana pudding, creating a dessert that’s bursting with flavor and texture. It’s easy to prepare, incredibly satisfying, and perfect for sharing with family and friends or even enjoying as a cozy solo snack.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfect flavor combination: The rich banana pudding blends seamlessly with the crispy cereal for a mouthwatering balance.
- Easy to make: Requires simple ingredients and steps, perfect for beginners and busy cooks alike.
- Versatile dessert: Great for parties, potlucks, or a sweet everyday treat you’ll want to make again and again.
- Kid-friendly: A fun and tasty snack that kids adore, making it a great activity to prepare together.
- Customizable: You can easily tweak flavors and add-ins to suit your preferences or dietary needs.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To create the perfect Banana Pudding Rice Krispies, you’ll want ingredients that bring out creamy, crunchy, and fruity notes with every bite. Each component plays a special role in delivering the ideal taste, texture, and color.
- Rice Krispies cereal: The crispy and light base provides the iconic crunch that holds everything together.
- Instant banana pudding mix: Adds creamy banana flavor quickly without extra cooking.
- Sweetened condensed milk: Brings sweetness and moisture to keep the treats soft and delicious.
- Marshmallows: Creates that gooey, chewy texture essential for classic Rice Krispies treats.
- Butter: Adds richness and helps melt the marshmallows evenly.
- Bananas: Fresh sliced bananas enhance the natural banana flavor and add a fruity freshness.
- Vanilla extract: Deepens the flavor profile with a warm, aromatic note.
Variations for Banana Pudding Rice Krispies
Feel free to get creative and customize this Banana Pudding Rice Krispies recipe to fit your taste buds or dietary preferences. These variations are easy to incorporate and keep the essence of the treat intact.
- Use gluten-free cereal: Swap Rice Krispies with a gluten-free puffed rice cereal for a gluten-free version.
- Add crushed vanilla wafers: Mix in crushed wafers for extra crunch and the classic banana pudding vibe.
- Include white chocolate chips: Stir in chips for a sweet melt-in-your-mouth surprise.
- Use dairy-free substitutes: Replace butter and condensed milk with plant-based options for a vegan-friendly treat.
- Add toasted coconut flakes: Sprinkle on top for a tropical twist and added texture.
How to Make Banana Pudding Rice Krispies
Step 1: Prepare the Marshmallow Mixture
Start by melting the butter in a large saucepan over low heat, then add the marshmallows and stir continuously until completely melted and smooth. Remove from heat before mixing in the sweetened condensed milk, instant banana pudding mix, and vanilla extract until fully combined.
Step 2: Combine with Rice Krispies
Pour the melted marshmallow mixture into a large bowl with the Rice Krispies cereal. Gently fold everything together until the cereal is evenly coated, being careful not to crush the cereal pieces.
Step 3: Add Bananas and Optional Mix-Ins
Slice fresh bananas and carefully fold them in. Now’s the time to add any optional ingredients like vanilla wafers or white chocolate chips if you want to customize your treat.
Step 4: Press Into Pan and Cool
Transfer the mixture to a greased or parchment-lined pan and press evenly to compact it. Let it cool completely at room temperature before slicing into squares for the best texture and easy serving.
Pro Tips for Making Banana Pudding Rice Krispies
- Use ripe bananas: Ripe bananas provide maximum sweetness and flavor without needing extra sugar.
- Don’t overmix: Gently fold in ingredients to keep the treats airy and crispy.
- Press firmly: Use a spatula or wax paper to press the mixture into the pan to help the treats hold together.
- Work fast: Marshmallow mixtures can harden quickly, so mix and press promptly for the best texture.
- Cool completely: Allow enough cooling time to ensure clean-cut bars that won’t crumble.
How to Serve Banana Pudding Rice Krispies
Garnishes
Add a playful touch by topping slices with a dollop of whipped cream, a sprinkle of crushed vanilla wafers, or thin banana slices to enhance the banana pudding vibe and make each bite extra special.
Side Dishes
Pair these treats with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a fresh fruit salad for a refreshing balance of temperature and flavors when serving as dessert.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut into fun shapes using cookie cutters or layer with banana pudding in a clear glass jar for a stunning parfait look that will impress guests and make snack time feel festive.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store Banana Pudding Rice Krispies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to retain freshness and the perfect chewy texture.
Freezing
Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container to freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw at room temperature before serving for best results.
Reheating
Since these treats are best enjoyed at room temperature, reheating isn’t typically needed, but a quick 5-second zap in the microwave can soften them slightly if desired.
FAQs
Can I use homemade banana pudding instead of instant?
Yes, you can substitute homemade banana pudding for instant, but make sure it’s thickened well so it doesn’t make the treats too soggy.
Will these treats get soggy with fresh bananas?
To prevent sogginess, add the bananas just before pressing the mixture into the pan and enjoy within a day or two for the freshest taste.
Can I use mini marshmallows instead of regular size?
Absolutely! Mini marshmallows melt faster and can make the mixing process quicker and easier.
Is there a way to make this recipe vegan?
Yes, substitute vegan butter, use a vegan banana pudding mix or homemade version, and swap sweetened condensed milk with a plant-based condensed milk alternative.
How do I keep the treats from sticking to the pan?
Line your baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it before pressing in the mixture to make removing the treats a breeze.
Final Thoughts
Banana Pudding Rice Krispies bring a fun and delicious twist to classic treats that everyone will adore. Whether for a special occasion or a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to become a favorite you’ll reach for again and again. Give it a try and enjoy every creamy, crunchy bite!
Related Posts
- Sunshine Salad: A Bright and Refreshing Recipe
- New York Cheesecake Recipe: Creamy and Delicious!
- Easy Banana Bread Recipe: Quick and Delicious!
Banana Pudding Rice Krispies
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Banana Pudding Rice Krispies are a creamy, crunchy dessert that perfectly blends the nostalgic crunch of Rice Krispies cereal with the sweet, smooth flavor of banana pudding. Easy to make and kid-friendly, this versatile treat is perfect for parties, potlucks, or a delightful everyday snack.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
- 1 (3.4 oz) package instant banana pudding mix
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- 4 cups mini marshmallows (or 4 cups regular marshmallows, chopped)
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter
- 2 ripe bananas, sliced
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the Marshmallow Mixture: Melt the butter in a large saucepan over low heat. Add the marshmallows and stir continuously until completely melted and smooth. Remove from heat, then mix in the sweetened condensed milk, instant banana pudding mix, and vanilla extract until fully combined.
- Combine with Rice Krispies: Pour the melted marshmallow mixture into a large bowl with the Rice Krispies cereal. Gently fold everything together until the cereal is evenly coated, being careful not to crush the cereal pieces.
- Add Bananas and Optional Mix-Ins: Slice fresh bananas and carefully fold them in. Add any optional ingredients like crushed vanilla wafers or white chocolate chips if desired.
- Press Into Pan and Cool: Transfer the mixture to a greased or parchment-lined pan and press evenly to compact it. Let it cool completely at room temperature before slicing into squares for easier serving and best texture.
Notes
- Use ripe bananas for maximum sweetness and flavor.
- Gently fold ingredients to keep the treats airy and crispy, avoiding overmixing.
- Press firmly into the pan with a spatula or wax paper to help the treats hold together.
- Work quickly, as the marshmallow mixtures can harden fast.
- Allow treats to cool completely before cutting to avoid crumbling.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar (approx. 1/12th of recipe)
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 140mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: banana pudding, rice krispies, dessert, easy dessert, kid-friendly, no-bake, snack, gluten free