Banana Pudding Rice Krispies Recipe

There's something magical about the combination of banana pudding and Rice Krispies treats. The creamy, sweet flavor of banana pudding pairs perfectly with the chewy, crunchy texture of classic marshmallow treats. One bite, and you're transported to a world of nostalgic comfort and indulgence.

I first experimented with this recipe when I had extra banana pudding from a family gathering. Rather than let it go to waste, I decided to mix it into a batch of Rice Krispies treats. The result? A dessert that quickly became a household favorite, requested at every get-together.

Why You'll Love This Banana Pudding Rice Krispies Recipe

Get ready to experience a twist on two beloved desserts in one bite. This Banana Pudding Rice Krispies recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly simple to make.

First, it's a quick and easy treat. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up a batch in under 20 minutes.

Second, it's a fun and unique dessert. If you're looking for something a little different to bring to a party or potluck, these bars will stand out and have everyone asking for the recipe.

Another reason to love this recipe? No baking required. This means you don’t have to heat up your kitchen, making it a great year-round treat.

Lastly, this dessert is customizable. You can adjust the level of banana flavor, mix in different toppings, or even drizzle it with white chocolate for an extra decadent touch.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each one plays a role in bringing out the rich banana pudding flavor while keeping the classic Rice Krispies texture intact.

Banana pudding mix is the star of the show. I recommend using instant banana pudding for the best texture and flavor. It blends seamlessly with the melted marshmallows, adding that signature banana creaminess.

Rice Krispies cereal provides the signature crunch. Be sure to use fresh cereal to maintain that light, crispy texture—stale cereal can make the treats taste chewy rather than crisp.

Marshmallows are what hold everything together. I prefer mini marshmallows because they melt more evenly, creating a smooth and gooey base for the treats.

Butter adds richness and keeps the marshmallows from becoming too sticky. Use unsalted butter to control the sweetness and balance the flavors.

Vanilla wafers add an extra nod to traditional banana pudding. Crushed wafers sprinkled on top (or mixed in) give a delightful crunch and authentic flavor boost.

How To Make This Banana Pudding Rice Krispies Recipe

Making these treats is just as easy as whipping up classic Rice Krispies squares, with a banana pudding twist!

Start by preparing your pan. Line an 8x8 or 9x9 baking dish with parchment paper and lightly grease it to prevent sticking.

In a large pot, melt butter over low heat. Once melted, add mini marshmallows and stir continuously until fully melted and smooth. At this stage, mix in the banana pudding mix, stirring well to ensure it dissolves completely.

Once the pudding mix is fully incorporated, remove the pot from heat and immediately fold in the Rice Krispies cereal. Stir quickly but gently, making sure each piece is coated in the gooey marshmallow mixture.

Transfer the mixture into the prepared pan, pressing it down gently with a greased spatula or parchment paper. For an added banana pudding touch, sprinkle crushed vanilla wafers on top before the mixture sets.

Let the treats cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes before slicing into squares. This allows them to firm up while still staying soft and chewy.

Storage Options

These treats store beautifully, making them perfect for meal prep or gifting.

For short-term storage, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This ensures they stay fresh and crisp.

If you want to extend their shelf life, refrigerate them in a sealed container for up to a week. Just be sure to let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before eating, as they can become a bit firm when chilled.

For long-term storage, you can freeze them! Wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to a month. When ready to eat, let them thaw for about 15 minutes before enjoying.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how easily you can switch things up to suit your taste or dietary preferences.

If you prefer a more subtle banana flavor, reduce the banana pudding mix to half the amount. You’ll still get the essence of banana without overpowering the classic Rice Krispies taste.

Want an extra gooey texture? Stir in a handful of white chocolate chips while the mixture is still warm. They’ll melt slightly, adding a creamy richness.

For a healthier twist, use coconut oil instead of butter and swap half of the marshmallows for honey or maple syrup. The result is a slightly softer but still delicious treat.

Love toppings? Drizzle melted white or dark chocolate over the finished bars for a decorative and flavorful finish.

However you choose to customize them, these Banana Pudding Rice Krispies treats are bound to be a hit. Get creative, have fun, and enjoy every bite!

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