There’s something irresistibly nostalgic about the combination of banana pudding and gooey Rice Krispie treats. One afternoon, while trying to whip up a quick snack for my family, I discovered the magic of these Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats. As the sweet aroma of melting marshmallows danced through the air, I felt a wave of excitement. With just a handful of simple ingredients, this delightful mashup transformed into a creamy, crunchy dessert that satisfied both my cravings for comfort and originality.
Whether it’s a casual weekend gathering or a mid-week treat, these bars promise to bring smiles all around. The best part? They come together in just 20 minutes, making them the perfect solution for anyone bored with fast food and in need of some homemade goodness. So, if you’re ready to impress with a fun twist on a classic dessert, let’s dive into this easy-to-follow recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Why are Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats a Must-Try?
Irresistible sweetness: The unique blend of banana pudding and marshmallows creates an unforgettable flavor that feels like a warm hug.
Quick and easy: In just 20 minutes, you’ll have a delightful dessert ready to impress—perfect for busy weekdays or last-minute gatherings.
No-bake magic: With simple steps and minimal cooking, you can whip these up without turning on the oven!
Crowd-pleaser: Whether for kids or adults, these treats delight everyone and make you the star of the show.
Customizable twist: Feel free to add your favorite mix-ins—think nuts or chocolate chips! Get creative and bring your personal touch to this classic.
For more quick snack inspiration, check out our other easy dessert recipes!
Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats Ingredients
For the Treats
• Unsalted butter – 5 Tbsp, for that rich, creamy base that brings everything together.
• Marshmallows – 1 (10.5 oz.) bag, the key to achieving that gooey texture everyone loves.
• Instant vanilla pudding mix – 1 (1.85 oz.) pack, adding a dreamy flavor reminiscent of classic banana pudding.
• Freeze dried bananas – 2 oz., processed into a powder (~1/4 cup), enhances the banana flavor and adds a unique twist.
• Puffed rice cereal – 6 cups, providing the crunch that perfectly complements the soft, creamy layers.
• Vanilla wafers – 40 total, divided into 16 crushed and 24 whole, bringing a delightful crunch and nostalgia to every bite.
For the Toppings
• White chocolate, bark, or candy coating – 2 oz., melted and drizzled on top to add a sweet finishing touch that ties the whole treat together.
Now you have all the delightful ingredients to create your Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats!
How to Make Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats
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Prepare the Pan: Coat a 9×13-inch pan with nonstick spray. This will ensure your treats release easily once they’re set and ready to enjoy.
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Melt the Butter: In a large pot over low heat, melt the butter. Add the marshmallows and stir until completely melted and smooth. Keep an eye on it—you want it silky, not burned!
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Combine the Flavor: Remove the pot from heat and stir in the instant vanilla pudding and the powdered freeze-dried bananas. This delicious combination gives your treats that authentic banana pudding flavor!
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Mix in the Cereal: Add the puffed rice cereal and the crushed vanilla wafers to the pot. Stir gently until everything is well coated with the gooey marshmallow mixture.
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Spread and Press: Transfer the mixture to your prepared pan. Using a buttered spatula or your greased hands, press the mixture evenly into the pan. This step is crucial for achieving the right texture!
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Melt the Topping: While the bars are cooling, melt the white chocolate. Drizzle the melted chocolate over the cooled treats and sprinkle the whole vanilla wafers on top for that extra touch of sweetness.
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Allow to Set: Let the treats solidify before cutting them into squares. Patience pays off here—good things come to those who wait!
Optional: Add sliced fresh bananas on top before serving for an extra fruity touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats
Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days for the best texture and flavor.
Fridge: If you prefer a firmer treat, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Allow to come to room temperature before serving.
Freezer: To freeze, wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll last for up to 2 months!
Reheating: If you want to enjoy your Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats warm, microwave them for about 10 seconds, watching closely to prevent melting or overheating.
What to Serve with Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats?
Create a delightful spread to complement your sweet, crunchy bars and elevate your snacking experience!
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances the sweetness of the treats. The juicy bites will refresh your palate.
- Chocolate Dipping Sauce: A warm chocolate sauce creates a fun, interactive treat experience. Dip each square for a rich twist that every chocolate lover will adore!
- Classic Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy, cold ice cream pairs beautifully with the chewiness of your Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats. It’s the ultimate indulgence!
- Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel adds a lovely, buttery flavor that complements the banana pudding while bringing an extra layer of decadence.
- Chilled Lemonade: The tartness of lemonade contrasts with the sweet treats and provides a refreshing sip on a warm day. It’s a classic pairing for an exciting balance!
- Coffee or Tea: A cup of hot coffee or herbal tea can help ground the sweetness while creating a comforting experience perfect for any time of day.
- Peanut Butter Dip: A creamy peanut butter dip adds a nutty twist that perfectly complements the flavors in your bars—and it beckons for double-dipping!
- Miniature Cheesecakes: Serve small cheesecake bites for a decadent dessert platter. Their creamy, tangy flavor will be a delightful contrast to the crispy treats.
Make Ahead Options
These Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats are a fantastic option for meal prep! You can prepare the treat mixture up to 24 hours in advance—just follow the initial steps up to pressing the mixture into the pan. Once cooled and set, cover the pan tightly with plastic wrap to keep them fresh and prevent any drying out. When you’re ready to serve, simply melt the white chocolate and drizzle it over the treats, topping with whole vanilla wafers. This not only saves you time but ensures your treats taste just as delicious as if made fresh that day, perfect for entertaining or weeknight snacking!
Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats Variations
Feel free to get creative and personalize your treats with these delightful twists!
- Dairy-Free: Substitute the butter with coconut oil and use dairy-free chocolate to keep it creamy without the dairy.
- Nutty Crunch: Add 1 cup of chopped pecans or walnuts to the mixture for a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor that complements the sweetness.
- Chocolate Lovers: Mix in 1 cup of mini chocolate chips for a rich, chocolatey burst that pairs beautifully with the banana pudding flavor.
- Salted Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle salted caramel over the top instead of white chocolate for an indulgent richness that elevates every bite.
- Peanut Butter Swirl: Stir in 1/2 cup of creamy peanut butter to the melted marshmallow mixture for a deliciously nutty twist that kids will love.
- Spiced Banana: Add 1 teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the marshmallow mix for a warm flavor that enhances the classic banana taste.
- Higher Heat: For a spicy kick, mix in 1-2 teaspoons of cayenne pepper or chili powder for sweet and spicy banana treats that are sure to surprise.
- Fresh Banana Layer: Top off with thinly sliced fresh bananas before the chocolate sets for a fruity freshness that perfectly balances the richness of the treats.
Tips for the Best Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats
• Watch the Heat: Keep your heat low when melting butter and marshmallows to prevent burning, ensuring a smooth, gooey mixture.
• Proper Mixing: Stir in the pudding and powdered bananas off the heat. This maintains the fluffiness of the marshmallows and keeps your treats light and airy.
• Press Firmly: When spreading the mixture into the pan, use a buttered spatula or greased hands to press it down firmly; this helps the bars hold together when cut.
• Chill Before Cutting: Allow your Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats to cool completely before slicing to keep the chocolate drizzle intact and avoid messy edges.
• Creative Add-ins: Don’t hesitate to personalize your treats—add chopped nuts or mini chocolate chips for extra flavor and texture for added fun!
Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe bananas for the freeze-dried banana powder?
Absolutely! When selecting bananas to freeze dry, look for ones that are slightly overripe, with just a few brown spots. These will have the best flavor and sweetness for your treats. If they’re too green, they won’t have that lovely banana taste you’re aiming for!
How should I store leftover Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats?
For best results, store your treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’d like them a bit firmer, pop them in the fridge where they can last for up to 5 days. Just be sure to let them come to room temperature before serving for that delightful chewy texture!
Can I freeze Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats?
Absolutely! To freeze your treats, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, ensuring there are no air pockets. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll safely keep in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply let them thaw at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for about 10 seconds for a warm treat!
What can I do if my mixture is too sticky?
If you find your Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats mixture is too sticky to spread, you can add a bit more puffed rice cereal. Gradually incorporate it until it reaches the desired consistency. Additionally, consider greasing your hands or using a buttered spatula when pressing it into the pan to make it easier!
Are these treats safe for pets or those with allergies?
Be cautious! These Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats contain ingredients like marshmallows and chocolate that can be harmful to pets, especially dogs. As for allergies, always check labels for allergens such as gluten, dairy, or nuts present in the ingredients. If you’re baking for someone with allergies, feel free to substitute with appropriate alternatives!
Can I customize the toppings for my Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats?
The more the merrier! Get creative with toppings—add mini chocolate chips, crushed nuts, or even additional freeze-dried fruits. Simply sprinkle them on before the chocolate drizzle sets to incorporate a personal touch to your delightful treats!
Irresistible Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats You’ll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Coat a 9×13-inch pan with nonstick spray.
- In a large pot over low heat, melt the butter. Add the marshmallows and stir until completely melted and smooth.
- Remove the pot from heat and stir in the instant vanilla pudding and the powdered freeze-dried bananas.
- Add the puffed rice cereal and the crushed vanilla wafers to the pot. Stir gently until well coated.
- Transfer the mixture to your prepared pan, pressing it evenly into the pan.
- Melt the white chocolate and drizzle it over the cooled treats, sprinkling whole vanilla wafers on top.
- Allow to solidify before cutting into squares.