Meet your new dessert obsession: Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats! This irresistible twist on the classic marshmallow treat combines everything you love about creamy banana pudding—think sweet banana flavor, crunchy vanilla wafers, and a luscious white chocolate finish—with the nostalgic snap of Rice Krispies cereal. The result? An easy, no-bake bar that’s playful, comforting, and totally crowd-pleasing. These treats taste like happy childhood memories with a fun, unexpected upgrade, and I guarantee they’ll disappear faster than you can say “just one more piece.”
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats is how a handful of familiar ingredients come together into something truly dazzling. Each ingredient brings something special—texture, flavor, or just the perfect creamy note to make every bite memorable!
- Rice Krispies cereal (6 cups): Classic crunch and lightness—the foundation that makes these treats crisp and airy.
- Mini marshmallows (1 10-ounce bag): The glue that holds everything together and keeps the bars delectably chewy.
- Unsalted butter (3 tablespoons): Adds rich, creamy flavor and gives the bars that luscious melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Instant banana pudding mix, dry (1 3.4-ounce box): Infuses these treats with unmistakable banana pudding flavor; don’t mix it with milk!
- Crushed vanilla wafers (1/2 cup): Tossed in for that signature Southern banana pudding vibe and extra crunch.
- White chocolate chips (1/2 cup, optional): For pockets of creamy sweetness that perfectly complement the banana flavor.
- Vanilla extract (1/2 teaspoon): Just a hint seriously enhances the banana and marshmallow notes.
- Pinch of salt: Brightens up all the sweetness and balances the flavors beautifully.
How to Make Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan
Start by lightly greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish, or line it with parchment paper if you like super-easy cleanup. A little nonstick spray or butter will do the trick—this helps your treats pop out effortlessly later on. Trust me, future you will thank you when it’s time to slice and serve!
Step 2: Melt the Butter and Marshmallows
In a large pot over low heat, melt the butter until just liquid. Then toss in all your mini marshmallows and stir continuously. Don’t rush this part—gentle, constant stirring will give you that ultra-smooth, glossy marshmallow melt. Once the marshmallows are completely melted and dreamy, you’re ready for the next step.
Step 3: Stir in the Banana Flavor
Take the pot off the heat, then quickly add the dry instant banana pudding mix, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir fast and well; this is where all that nostalgic banana pudding flavor infuses right into the gooey marshmallow. You’ll immediately notice the change—your kitchen will start to smell absolutely heavenly!
Step 4: Fold in the Good Stuff
Time for some texture! Gently fold in your Rice Krispies cereal, the crushed vanilla wafers, and white chocolate chips if you want those melty, creamy morsels in every bite. A sturdy spatula or big wooden spoon works great here. Be sure everything is evenly coated with the banana-marshmallow mixture before moving on.
Step 5: Press and Set
Scoop the mixture into your prepared pan and use a spatula or a sheet of wax paper to gently but firmly press it into an even layer. Don’t press too hard or you’ll end up with dense treats—just enough so everything comes together. Let the pan sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes so the treats can set up perfectly before slicing into squares.
How to Serve Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats
Garnishes
Dress up your Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats with a few playful touches. Try a sprinkle of extra crushed vanilla wafers, a handful of banana chips, or even a light drizzle of melted white chocolate on top. If you’re feeling fancy, a dollop of whipped cream and a maraschino cherry will make each bar look like a retro banana pudding sundae!
Side Dishes
Pair these bars with something creamy or light for a sweet ending. They’re lovely with a scoop of vanilla (or banana!) ice cream on warm days, or simply serve alongside fresh berries to balance the sweetness. If you’re hosting a brunch, offer these treats with coffee or a cold glass of milk for pure comfort-food bliss.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, cut your Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats into bite-sized squares and stack them on a pretty platter. Want a fun twist? Layer them in small mason jars with extra whipped cream and banana slices for a portable banana pudding parfait. They also make irresistible lunchbox surprises—just wrap individually and tuck them in for a nostalgic treat on the go!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay soft and delicious for up to 3 days. To prevent sticking, place a piece of wax or parchment paper between layers. You’ll probably find they’re all gone long before then, though!
Freezing
If you want to save some for later (or just enjoy in small batches), these bars freeze beautifully. Cut them into squares, wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap, and pop them into a freezer-safe zip bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to a month. Let them come to room temperature for about an hour before serving for the best texture.
Reheating
No need to reheat these, as they’re meant to be enjoyed at room temperature (and they’re pretty irresistible that way). If you love a slightly gooey bite, you can microwave a square for just 5 seconds before eating—just be careful not to melt the marshmallow too much!
FAQs
Can I use regular marshmallows instead of mini marshmallows?
Absolutely! Just chop them up a bit so they melt faster and evenly. You’ll want about 5 cups of marshmallows in total, mini or regular, to get the perfect gooeyness for Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats.
What if I only have banana pudding cups, not instant dry mix?
For this recipe, you need the dry instant pudding mix since it flavors the treats without adding extra liquid. Pudding cups won’t work here—they’ll make the bars too wet and won’t blend into the marshmallow mixture properly.
Can I add real bananas to the recipe?
It’s tempting, but fresh bananas will make the treats soggy and won’t keep well. For a pop of real fruit, try banana chips either mixed in or sprinkled on top—this way, you get more banana flavor and extra crunch without compromising texture.
Are Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats gluten free?
Rice Krispies cereal often contains malt syrup (which isn’t gluten-free), and most vanilla wafers are wheat-based. If you need a gluten-free option, look for certified gluten-free crispy rice cereal and gluten-free vanilla wafers—then you’re set to enjoy safely!
Can I leave out the white chocolate chips?
Definitely! The white chocolate is optional, so leave it out if you prefer classic flavors. Or, swap in another chip (like milk or dark chocolate) if you like—these Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats are super flexible.
Final Thoughts
I can’t wait for you to share these Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats with your friends and family. They’re everything you love about classic banana pudding and old-school cereal bars, all rolled up in one easy, unforgettable treat. Give them a try—I promise they’ll be a sweet highlight of your week!
Print
Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes (plus cooling)
- Yield: 12 treats
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the delightful combination of banana pudding and Rice Krispie treats with this easy and delicious recipe. These no-bake treats are perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings!
Ingredients
Rice Krispie Treats:
- 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
- 1 (10-ounce) bag mini marshmallows
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
Banana Pudding Mix:
- 1 (3.4-ounce) box instant banana pudding mix (dry)
- 1/2 cup crushed vanilla wafers
- 1/2 cup white chocolate chips (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- pinch of salt
Instructions
- Prepare the Mix: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
- Combine Ingredients: Fold in the Rice Krispies cereal, crushed vanilla wafers, and white chocolate chips if using. Stir until everything is evenly coated.
- Set Treats: Press the mixture into the prepared pan using a spatula or wax paper. Let cool at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before slicing into squares.
In a large pot over low heat, melt the butter. Add the mini marshmallows and stir continuously until completely melted and smooth. Remove from heat and quickly stir in the dry banana pudding mix, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until well combined.
Notes
- For a more intense banana flavor, add a few banana chips into the mix or sprinkle on top.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 190
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
