Irresistible Banana Pudding Rice Krispies Treats
If you adore the comforting flavors of sweet bananas combined with the satisfying crunch of cereal, then you’re going to fall head over heels for these Banana Pudding Rice Krispies treats. This delightful dessert merges creamy banana pudding goodness with crispy rice cereal, crafting a treat that’s both nostalgic and fresh at the same time. Whether you want a quick snack or a crowd-pleaser for your next gathering, Banana Pudding Rice Krispies deliver that perfect balance of chewy, creamy, and crispy all in one bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple yet Delicious: A handful of everyday ingredients combine effortlessly for an impressive dessert.
- Perfect Texture: Creamy banana pudding meets the satisfying crisp of Rice Krispies for a delightful contrast.
- Great for All Ages: Kids and adults alike enjoy this sweet and easy treat.
- Quick to Make: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for last-minute cravings or entertaining.
- Customizable: A blank canvas for adding your favorite mix-ins or flavors.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Banana Pudding Rice Krispies recipe plays a key role, from flavor to texture. These simple essentials come together beautifully to create a rich, creamy, and crispy dessert that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare.
- Banana pudding mix: The heart of the recipe, providing that luscious banana flavor and creamy texture.
- Milk: Activates the pudding mix and contributes to the smooth consistency.
- Marshmallows: Melt down and bind the mixture while adding chewiness and sweetness.
- Butter: Adds richness and helps melt marshmallows evenly for the perfect treatment.
- Rice Krispies cereal: Offers that classic crispy crunch essential to the treat’s signature texture.
- Sliced bananas (optional): Enhances freshness and layers extra banana flavor throughout.
Variations for Banana Pudding Rice Krispies
Feel free to make this Banana Pudding Rice Krispies recipe your own! It’s incredibly easy to tweak based on what you have on hand, dietary needs, or taste preferences. Here are some fun ideas to get you started.
- Chocolate twist: Fold in mini chocolate chips or drizzle melted chocolate on top for a decadent touch.
- Peanut butter blend: Swirl in creamy peanut butter for a rich and nutty flavor combo.
- Vegan version: Use dairy-free banana pudding, vegan marshmallows, and plant-based butter substitutes.
- Chopped nuts: Add walnuts or pecans for crunch and a little contrast.
- Fresh fruit medley: Mix in diced strawberries or blueberries for added color and freshness.
How to Make Banana Pudding Rice Krispies
Step 1: Prepare the pudding base
Start by mixing the banana pudding mix with cold milk. Whisk thoroughly until it thickens slightly, creating that creamy banana goodness that forms the dessert’s soul.
Step 2: Melt the marshmallows and butter
In a large pot, melt butter over low heat and add marshmallows, stirring constantly until smooth and gooey. This sticky base will ensure your treats hold together perfectly.
Step 3: Combine with Rice Krispies
Quickly add the Rice Krispies cereal to the melted marshmallow mixture, folding gently to coat every crisp perfectly with that sweet, buttery layer.
Step 4: Incorporate banana pudding
Pour in your prepared banana pudding, folding it gently into the cereal mixture to spread the creamy flavor evenly throughout without breaking the crisp texture.
Step 5: Add fresh banana slices (optional)
For an extra burst of authentic banana flavor and freshness, gently fold in thinly sliced bananas at this stage.
Step 6: Press and cool
Transfer the mixture into a greased or parchment-lined pan, pressing down lightly to even the top. Allow the treat to cool completely at room temperature or in the fridge before slicing.
Pro Tips for Making Banana Pudding Rice Krispies
- Use fresh marshmallows: They melt more evenly and result in a smoother texture.
- Don’t over-stir: Fold gently to keep the cereal crispy and prevent mushiness.
- Add pudding last: Incorporating the banana pudding at the end keeps treats creamy without sogginess.
- Cool completely: Chilling helps the treats firm up for easy cutting and handling.
- Use ripe bananas: Sweet, ripe bananas enhance flavor but avoid overripe to prevent mushy texture.
How to Serve Banana Pudding Rice Krispies
Garnishes
Top these treats with a sprinkle of crushed vanilla wafers, a dollop of whipped cream, or a light dusting of cinnamon to add a finishing touch that wows.
Side Dishes
Pair Banana Pudding Rice Krispies with fresh fruit salad or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to elevate the dessert experience at your table.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve in individual clear cups with miniature spoons for cute handheld portions or cut into fun shapes using cookie cutters to delight kids and guests alike.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover Banana Pudding Rice Krispies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain crispness and freshness.
Freezing
You can freeze these treats in a sealed container for up to one month. Thaw at room temperature before serving but expect a slightly softer texture.
Reheating
Reheating is not recommended as it can melt the marshmallows and soften the cereal; enjoy these treats fresh or at room temperature for best texture.
FAQs
Can I use homemade banana pudding for this recipe?
Absolutely! Homemade banana pudding works wonderfully and can add an extra layer of freshness and control over sweetness.
What if I don’t have Rice Krispies cereal?
You can substitute with similar crispy rice cereals, but Rice Krispies are preferred for their texture and consistency.
How long will the treats stay fresh?
Banana Pudding Rice Krispies are best enjoyed within 2 days when stored properly to keep their crispy texture intact.
Can I make these dairy-free?
Yes, simply use dairy-free banana pudding mix, vegan marshmallows, and plant-based butter for a delicious dairy-free version.
Is it possible to make mini-sized treats for parties?
Definitely! Use mini muffin tins to create bite-sized Banana Pudding Rice Krispies that are perfect for serving at gatherings.
Final Thoughts
Once you try these Banana Pudding Rice Krispies, you’ll see why they make such an irresistible treat. They capture that perfect mix of creamy banana flavor and crispy cereal crunch in an easy-to-make dessert that’ll brighten any day. Go ahead and whip up a batch today—your taste buds will thank you!
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PrintBanana Pudding Rice Krispies
Banana Pudding Rice Krispies are a delightful dessert combining creamy banana pudding with crispy rice cereal for a nostalgic yet fresh treat. Easy to make in under 30 minutes, this chewy, creamy, and crispy snack is perfect for all ages and occasions.
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 package banana pudding mix
- 2 cups cold milk
- 4 cups mini marshmallows (or approx. 40 regular marshmallows)
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
- 1–2 sliced ripe bananas (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the pudding base: Start by mixing the banana pudding mix with cold milk. Whisk thoroughly until it thickens slightly, creating that creamy banana goodness that forms the dessert’s soul.
- Melt the marshmallows and butter: In a large pot, melt butter over low heat and add marshmallows, stirring constantly until smooth and gooey. This sticky base will ensure your treats hold together perfectly.
- Combine with Rice Krispies: Quickly add the Rice Krispies cereal to the melted marshmallow mixture, folding gently to coat every crisp perfectly with that sweet, buttery layer.
- Incorporate banana pudding: Pour in your prepared banana pudding, folding it gently into the cereal mixture to spread the creamy flavor evenly throughout without breaking the crisp texture.
- Add fresh banana slices (optional): For an extra burst of authentic banana flavor and freshness, gently fold in thinly sliced bananas at this stage.
- Press and cool: Transfer the mixture into a greased or parchment-lined pan, pressing down lightly to even the top. Allow the treat to cool completely at room temperature or in the fridge before slicing.
Notes
- Use fresh marshmallows for smoother texture as they melt more evenly.
- Fold ingredients gently to keep the cereal crispy and prevent mushiness.
- Add pudding last to keep treats creamy without sogginess.
- Cool completely to allow the treats to firm up for easy cutting and handling.
- Use ripe bananas for best flavor but avoid overripe to prevent mushy texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece (approx. 1/12 of batch)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: banana pudding, Rice Krispies treats, no-bake dessert, quick snack, gluten free dessert