Banana Pudding Rice Krispies Recipe

There's something undeniably nostalgic about the flavors of banana pudding. The sweet vanilla, creamy banana, and crunchy wafers create a dessert that feels like a warm hug. Now, imagine all of that goodness combined with the crispy, chewy texture of a Rice Krispies treat.

this Recipe

I first made these Banana Pudding Rice Krispies when I was craving something sweet but didn’t want to turn on the oven. A quick mix of classic ingredients resulted in a treat that disappeared faster than I could make them! Whether you're making these for a family gathering, a bake sale, or just a cozy night in, they’re sure to be a hit.

Why You'll Love This Banana Pudding Rice Krispies

Get ready for a dessert that takes your favorite childhood flavors to a whole new level. These Banana Pudding Rice Krispies are easy to make, require no baking, and are packed with that rich banana-vanilla goodness.

First, they’re incredibly simple to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients and a few minutes on the stovetop, you’ll have a batch ready to enjoy in no time. Perfect for busy days when you need a quick treat.

They also bring together the best of both worlds – the creamy, comforting taste of banana pudding and the crispy, chewy texture of a Rice Krispies treat. It’s the ultimate mash-up that will keep you coming back for more.

Best of all, they’re completely no-bake. No need to heat up your kitchen, making them ideal for warm weather or when you just don’t feel like baking.

Finally, they’re incredibly versatile. Want to add a drizzle of white chocolate? Go for it. Prefer to mix in some extra crushed wafers? The more, the merrier. You can easily customize them to fit your cravings.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of these Banana Pudding Rice Krispies is in their simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each component plays a key role in creating that perfect balance of sweetness, crunch, and creaminess.

Marshmallows provide the chewy, gooey base that holds everything together. Opt for mini marshmallows, as they melt more evenly, but regular-sized ones work just as well.

Banana pudding mix is the secret to infusing these treats with that rich banana flavor. Instant pudding mix works best since it dissolves easily into the melted marshmallow mixture.

Rice Krispies cereal gives these treats their signature crunch. Be sure to use fresh cereal for maximum crispiness and the best texture.

Vanilla wafers add that classic banana pudding touch. Crushed into small pieces, they provide a buttery crunch that complements the soft, chewy marshmallow base.

A touch of butter helps smooth out the marshmallow mixture, making it easier to mix everything together. It also adds a rich, buttery flavor that enhances the overall taste.

How To Make This Banana Pudding Rice Krispies

Making these Banana Pudding Rice Krispies is as easy as it gets. A little stovetop melting, a quick mix, and some patience while they set – that’s all it takes.

Start by melting the butter in a large pot over low heat. Once melted, add the marshmallows and stir continuously until they’re completely smooth and gooey. This is the foundation of your treats, so take your time and make sure everything is fully melted.

Once the marshmallows are melted, stir in the banana pudding mix until fully combined. The heat helps dissolve the pudding mix, ensuring every bite has that signature banana flavor.

Next, remove the pot from heat and gently fold in the Rice Krispies cereal. Stir quickly but carefully to coat every piece with the marshmallow mixture. The key is to work fast before the mixture starts to cool and set.

Now, fold in the crushed vanilla wafers. These add a delicious crunch and bring in that classic banana pudding texture. Mix until evenly distributed, but don’t overwork the mixture, or the wafers might break down too much.

Finally, press the mixture into a greased 9x13-inch pan. Use a piece of parchment paper or a greased spatula to gently press it down without packing it too tightly. Let them cool for about 30 minutes before cutting into squares and serving.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers (which is rare!), storing these treats properly will keep them fresh and delicious.

For short-term storage, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh for about 3 days. Just be sure to keep them away from heat or humidity, as they can become sticky.

For longer storage, you can refrigerate them, but note that they may become a bit firmer. If you do refrigerate them, let them sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before eating to soften up.

Freezing is also an option. Wrap individual squares in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. When ready to enjoy, let them thaw at room temperature for about 15 minutes.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how easy it is to customize. Here are some fun twists you can try:

If you’re a chocolate lover, try adding white chocolate chips to the mix. They add a creamy sweetness that pairs beautifully with the banana flavor.

For an extra banana kick, mix in some freeze-dried banana slices. They add a bit of natural banana flavor and a slight crunch.

Want a little more texture? Stir in some chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts. They add a satisfying crunch and a hint of nuttiness that complements the other flavors.

If you prefer a lighter version, use marshmallow fluff instead of melted marshmallows. This results in a softer, more delicate texture.

No vanilla wafers? Swap them for graham crackers or shortbread cookies. Both options provide a similar buttery crunch and work just as well.

However you decide to make these Banana Pudding Rice Krispies, have fun with it! With such a simple, adaptable recipe, you can put your own spin on it while still enjoying that classic banana pudding flavor.

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