Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats Recipe

If you love the nostalgic comfort of traditional Rice Krispie treats but crave a fun twist packed with fruity flavor and creamy sweetness, these Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats are exactly what you need. They elevate the classic marshmallow and cereal combo by infusing it with instant banana pudding mix, creating a soft, dreamy texture with a burst of banana goodness in every bite. Whether you’re making these for a summer gathering, a kid-friendly snack, or a sweet ending to your dinner, these treats promise a delightful experience that’s both simple and irresistible.

Ingredients You’ll Need

All you need for these Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats are a handful of familiar ingredients that blend effortlessly to create a dessert bursting with flavor and delightful texture. Each one plays a role in building that perfect balance of creamy, crunchy, and sweet that you’ll love.

• Butter, 3 tbsp: Melting this adds richness and helps the marshmallows melt smoothly for a sticky, melded base.
• Marshmallows, 1 (10 oz) bag: The gooey binder that creates the essential chewy texture everyone adores.
• Instant Banana Pudding Mix, 1 (3.4 oz) box: This is the magical ingredient that infuses the treats with their unmistakable banana pudding flavor and creamy notes.
• Rice Krispies Cereal, 6 cups: The crispy foundation that adds crunch and substance to every bite.
• Crushed Nilla Wafers, optional: Sprinkle these on top for a nostalgic finish reminiscent of classic banana pudding.

How to Make Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan

Start by spraying a 9 x 13-inch pan with non-stick spray to make sure your treats will come out cleanly and keep their shape. This simple step saves you from sticky situations later.

Step 2: Melt Butter and Marshmallows

Melt the butter in a large microwave-safe bowl first, then add the entire bag of marshmallows. Microwave them for 45 seconds and stir well to start the melting process. Pop the bowl back in the microwave for another 45 seconds and stir again until everything is luxuriously smooth and stretchy. This step is crucial for binding your treats perfectly.

Step 3: Add Instant Banana Pudding Mix

To the warm marshmallow mixture, stir in the instant banana pudding mix. This turns the traditional Rice Krispie treat into the showstopper Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats you’ve been looking forward to. The pudding mix melds seamlessly with the marshmallows, adding creamy sweetness and that signature banana flavor.

Step 4: Incorporate Rice Krispies Cereal

Next, pour in the Rice Krispies cereal and fold gently but thoroughly so every flake is coated in the pudding-marshmallow mixture. This is where the crunchy, soft, and gooey textures come together, making each bite an absolute delight.

Step 5: Press into Pan and Add Toppings

Quickly and evenly distribute your mixture into the prepared pan, pressing down firmly to pack everything together without squishing it too much. If you like, sprinkle crushed Nilla Wafers over the top for a little extra texture and an authentic banana pudding flair. Let it cool completely so it sets perfectly before slicing.

How to Serve Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats

Garnishes

These treats stand out on their own but are even more fun with garnishes. A light dusting of crushed Nilla Wafers adds a delicate crunch and a sweet, nutty undertone. For extra flair, consider adding thin banana slices or even a drizzle of white chocolate to highlight that comforting banana pudding character.

Side Dishes

Serve these Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or fresh berries for contrast. The coolness of ice cream complements the chewy texture, while fresh fruit balances the sweetness with tangy brightness. They also pair wonderfully with a simple cup of coffee or milk, bringing out the dessert’s nostalgic charm.

Creative Ways to Present

For a party, cut these treats into fun shapes using cookie cutters or layer them in individual clear cups with whipped cream and banana slices for an impressive banana pudding parfait. Wrapping each treat in colorful parchment paper or cellophane makes them perfect for gifting or party favors. The visual appeal makes enjoying these treats even more special.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store your leftover Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats in an airtight container at room temperature. This keeps them chewy and fresh for up to 3 days. Avoid refrigerating unless necessary, as it can make them stiff and less enjoyable.

Freezing

If you want to keep these treats fresh for longer, you can freeze them. Wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. To enjoy, just thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes.

Reheating

These treats taste best at room temperature, but if they’ve become a little hard, you can microwave them for 10 to 15 seconds to soften the marshmallow texture. Just be careful not to overheat them or the marshmallows might get tough.

FAQs

Can I use regular pudding instead of instant banana pudding mix?

Instant pudding mix is essential here because it blends smoothly into the warm marshmallow mixture and sets quickly without adding extra moisture. Regular pudding won’t give you the same texture or hold well, so stick to the instant mix for best results.

What if I don’t have Rice Krispies cereal?

If you can’t find Rice Krispies, puffed rice cereals are a decent substitute, but the classic crunch comes from the traditional Rice Krispies. Using other cereals might change the texture and flavor balance a bit, so try to stick to what’s recommended.

Can I make these treats gluten-free?

Traditional Rice Krispies cereal contains malt flavoring derived from barley, so it’s not gluten-free. However, you can find certified gluten-free puffed rice cereals to replace them and gluten-free vanilla wafers for the topping to adapt this recipe for gluten-sensitive friends.

How long does it take for the treats to set?

They usually firm up enough to slice within about an hour at room temperature. If you’re in a hurry, you can speed this up by placing the pan in the refrigerator, but keep in mind this might affect texture slightly.

Can I add mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts?

Absolutely! To customize your Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats, gently fold mini chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or even sliced dried banana pieces into the cereal before pressing the mixture into the pan. Just be careful not to overmix as it might affect their overall structure.

Final Thoughts

Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats are a delightful, nostalgic twist on a classic snack that’s sure to bring smiles at any occasion. They combine the perfect balance of soft, chewy, crunchy, and creamy with a flavor that feels both fun and comforting. I can’t wait for you to make these and share the joy they bring – trust me, this recipe is a keeper!

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