Soft, chewy, and bursting with sweet banana flavor, Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats take the classic marshmallow bar to an entirely new level. The magic begins with perfectly ripe bananas, mashed until silky-smooth, then folded into a luscious blend of melted mini marshmallows and instant banana pudding mix. Each bite offers a harmonious dance between the light, airy marshmallow sweetness and the natural fruitiness of banana pudding. The addition of buttery vanilla wafers brings a delightful crunch, while the crisp Rice Krispies cereal ensures every square remains satisfyingly crisp but tender enough to melt on your tongue. This treat is a nostalgic throwback wrapped in a fresh, fruity twist—an irresistible combination that’s both kid-friendly and sophisticated enough for a grown-up dessert table.
Beyond flavor, these no-bake bars are ridiculously easy to whip up, making them a go-to for last-minute gatherings, potlucks, or an indulgent weekend snack. In just about 15 minutes of hands-on time, you’ll have a pan full of dreamy, golden squares that need only an hour to chill and set. Whether you’re a kitchen novice or a seasoned home cook, this recipe is practically foolproof, requiring simple ingredients you likely already have stocked in your pantry. And because they’re portable and crowd-pleasing, they’re perfect for school bake sales, picnics in the park, or even as a thoughtful homemade gift. Serve them at room temperature for maximum chewiness or pop them in the fridge for a slightly firmer bite. No matter how you slice it, these treats are bound to become a new dessert favorite.
KEY INGREDIENTS IN BANANA PUDDING RICE KRISPIE TREATS
Every ingredient in this recipe plays a starring role in creating that iconic banana pudding flavor while maintaining the playful crunch of a classic Rice Krispie treat. Let’s break down what you need and why each component is essential.
- Mashed ripe bananas
These provide the natural, sweet banana flavor that mimics traditional banana pudding. The riper the bananas, the more lush and flavorful your treats will be.
- Mini marshmallows
Acting as the glue that holds everything together, they melt into a sticky, sweet matrix that coats the cereal and other mix-ins for that classic chewy texture.
- Unsalted butter
Adds richness and helps the marshmallows melt smoothly without altering the sweetness of the recipe. It also prevents sticking when you press the mixture into the pan.
- Instant banana pudding mix
Infuses concentrated banana flavor and a hint of creamy vanilla into the melted marshmallow base. It also lends extra thickness and structure.
- Rice Krispies cereal
Contributes the signature crunch and lightness, ensuring the bars aren’t overly dense and adding a playful snap to every bite.
- Vanilla extract
Enhances the overall flavor profile with a warm, aromatic depth that complements both the banana and the marshmallow.
- Crushed vanilla wafers
Bring a subtle crunch and additional vanilla notes that echo the flavors of a classic banana pudding dessert.
- Whipped cream and sliced bananas (optional)
Perfect for garnish, they elevate each square into a mini banana pudding sundae, adding creaminess and fresh fruit brightness.
HOW TO MAKE BANANA PUDDING RICE KRISPIE TREATS
With a few simple steps, you can transform pantry staples into a dessert that feels decadent yet effortless. Follow each step closely to ensure your bars set up perfectly and maintain their delightful texture.
1. Prepare your workspace by greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray. This will allow you to lift out the treats easily once they’ve set. Set the dish aside so it’s ready when the mixture is done.
2. In a large saucepan over low heat, melt the butter, stirring gently to ensure it doesn’t brown. Once the butter has fully melted, gradually add the mini marshmallows and stir continuously until they’re completely smooth and glossy.
3. Sprinkle in the instant banana pudding mix and pour in the vanilla extract. Mix thoroughly so the pudding powder dissolves completely and the mixture takes on a luscious, uniform color and flavor.
4. Remove the saucepan from heat. Working quickly, fold in the mashed bananas, ensuring they are evenly incorporated without overmixing, which could deflate the marshmallow base.
5. Gently stir in the Rice Krispies cereal, coating each piece thoroughly with the banana-mallow mixture. The goal is a uniform distribution without crushing the cereal into dust.
6. Add the crushed vanilla wafers and fold them in until every bit is evenly dispersed, bringing extra crunch and pops of vanilla flavor throughout the mixture.
7. Using a buttered spatula or a sheet of wax paper, press the mixture firmly and evenly into the prepared baking dish. This compacting helps the bars hold together when cut. Allow the pan to sit at room temperature for at least 1 hour to cool and set fully.
8. Once completely set, use a sharp knife to cut into squares. For an extra-special presentation, top each square with a dollop of whipped cream and a banana slice before serving.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR BANANA PUDDING RICE KRISPIE TREATS
These delightful bars are versatile and can be dressed up in so many ways. Whether you’re serving them at a summer picnic, afternoon tea, or simply indulging after dinner, these ideas will make every bite feel like a special occasion.
- Mini Parfait Cups
Layer bite-sized squares in small glass cups with whipped cream and banana slices. The clear glass shows off the layers and makes these treats look like elegant mini parfaits.
- White Chocolate Drizzle
Melt white chocolate chips and use a spoon or piping bag to drizzle thin ribbons over the top of each bar. Allow the drizzle to set before cutting for a polished finish.
- Cookie Sandwiches
Cut the treats into thin, rectangular shapes and sandwich them between two vanilla wafers for handheld fun. This creates a playful twist on ice cream sandwiches, perfect for lunchboxes.
- Ice Cream Sundae Topping
Crumble the bars over a scoop of vanilla or banana ice cream. Add chopped nuts, more banana slices, and a splash of caramel sauce for a sundae bursting with textures and flavors.
HOW TO STORE BANANA PUDDING RICE KRISPIE TREATS
Proper storage is key to maintaining the ideal chewiness and flavor of these banana pudding delights. With a little care, you can keep them fresh and irresistible for days.
- Airtight Container at Room Temperature
Store the treats in a single layer in an airtight container, placing sheets of wax paper between layers if stacking. They’ll stay chewy and fresh for up to 3 days.
- Refrigeration
For a firmer texture and a slightly chilled treat, keep them in the fridge for up to 5 days. Seal them in an airtight container to prevent moisture absorption from other foods.
- Freezing for Longer Storage
Individually wrap each square in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. When stored properly, they can last up to 1 month. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
- Avoiding Sogginess
Always ensure the container is well-sealed to keep air and humidity out. If you notice any condensation, pat the treats dry gently before resealing, to preserve their crispness.
CONCLUSION
With its marriage of nostalgic Rice Krispie charm and the bright, creamy taste of banana pudding, this recipe stands out as an imaginative twist on a beloved classic. From the moment you fold in those mashed ripe bananas, you’ll be delighted by the infusion of natural sweetness and the depth of vanilla-infused richness. Even the process feels like a treat: melting marshmallows into a glossy, dreamy base, scattering crunchy cereal and crushed cookies, then pressing everything into a pan until it gleams with promise. These bars are perfect for every skill level—whether you’re a beginner learning the ropes of no-bake desserts or a seasoned baker eager for a quick, crowd-pleasing option. Preparation takes just 15 minutes, active cooking time is under 10, and after an hour of rest, you’ll have a tray of golden, snackable squares ready to wow friends and family.
Feel free to print and save this article for easy reference whenever you’re craving a sweet snack. You can also tuck it into your recipe binder or bookmark it for potluck season—trust me, these bars will earn you rave reviews every time. Below, you’ll find a FAQ section to address any extra questions you might have, from ingredient substitutions to troubleshooting tips. If you give this recipe a whirl, I’d love to hear how it turned out! Drop a comment, share your tweaks, or let me know if you encountered any hiccups. Your feedback not only helps me refine future recipes but also guides other home bakers on their banana pudding treat journey. Happy mixing and munching!
Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats
Description
Soft and chewy, these treats showcase the sweet flavor of ripe bananas, the warmth of buttery marshmallow, and a satisfying crunch from Rice Krispies and vanilla wafers. Perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients
Instructions
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Prepare a 9x13-inch baking dish by lightly greasing it with butter or non-stick spray. Set aside.
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In a large saucepan, melt butter over low heat. Once melted, add the mini marshmallows and stir continuously until completely melted and smooth.
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Mix in the instant banana pudding mix and vanilla extract, stirring until fully incorporated with the melted marshmallow mixture.
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Remove the saucepan from heat and quickly fold in the mashed bananas until evenly distributed.
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Gently add the Rice Krispies cereal to the banana-mallow mixture, stirring until well coated.
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Fold in the crushed vanilla wafers and mix until they are evenly throughout the mixture.
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Using a buttered spatula or wax paper, firmly press the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Allow it to cool and set for at least 1 hour at room temperature.
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Once set, cut into squares and optionally serve with a dollop of whipped cream and banana slices on top.
Note
- The mashed bananas add a natural sweetness—ensure they’re ripe for the best flavor.
- The crushed vanilla wafers add a texture contrast and enhance the banana pudding flavor.
- For a twist, drizzle melted white chocolate over the treats before cutting.
- Keep treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Experiment with additional mix-ins like nuts or chocolate chips to suit your taste.
