Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats combine two beloved desserts into one irresistible sweet treat that will have everyone asking for seconds. This creative twist transforms the classic crispy treat into a banana lover’s dream. I discovered this recipe during a family gathering when my niece requested both banana pudding and Rice Krispie treats. Instead of making two separate desserts, I decided to experiment. The result? A crowd-pleasing fusion that disappeared within minutes.
These banana rice krispie treats offer the perfect balance of creamy banana flavor with that signature crispy, marshmallow texture we all love. The addition of vanilla wafers adds an authentic banana pudding touch that elevates this simple dessert to gourmet status. What makes this recipe special is its simplicity. You don’t need fancy equipment or hard-to-find ingredients. In just 30 minutes, you’ll have a batch of delicious snacks ready to serve.
Whether you’re planning a potluck, birthday party, or simply craving something sweet, this banana pudding rice crispy treats recipe delivers every time.
Table of Contents
Ingredients for Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats
This rice krispie treats with banana pudding recipe requires just a handful of simple ingredients. Most items are probably already in your pantry.
Main Ingredients:
- 1 stick salted butter (½ cup)
- 10 oz bag marshmallows
- ½ cup banana cream pudding mix (dry, not prepared)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 5 cups Rice Krispies cereal
- Vanilla wafers (about 1 cup crushed, plus extra for topping)
- White chocolate for drizzling (optional)
Why These Ingredients Work:
The butter creates a rich base that helps everything bind together smoothly. Marshmallows provide that classic chewy texture we expect from crispy treats.
The banana cream pudding mix is the star ingredient. It infuses every bite with authentic banana flavor without adding extra moisture that would make the treats soggy.
Vanilla wafers are essential. They add crunch and reinforce the traditional banana pudding flavor profile. This ingredient transforms ordinary pudding rice krispie treats into something truly special.
Ingredient Tips:
Use salted butter for better flavor balance. The slight saltiness enhances the sweetness without making the treats taste flat.
Fresh marshmallows work best. Old, hardened marshmallows won’t melt smoothly and can create lumpy treats.
Any brand of banana cream pudding mix works well. Instant pudding mix dissolves perfectly into the melted marshmallow mixture.
Instructions: How To Make Banana Pudding Rice Krispies
Follow these step-by-step instructions to create perfect banana rice krispie treats every time. The process is straightforward and takes about 10 minutes of active cooking time.
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan
Line a 9×9 inch baking pan with parchment paper. Leave some overhang on the sides for easy removal later. This preparation step makes cleanup effortless.
Step 2: Melt the Butter
Place butter in a large pot over low heat. Let it melt completely without browning. Low heat is crucial for preventing burnt butter taste.
Step 3: Add Marshmallows and Pudding Mix
Add the entire bag of marshmallows to the melted butter. Sprinkle the banana pudding mix over the marshmallows. Stir constantly until marshmallows melt completely into a smooth mixture.
This step takes about 3 to 5 minutes. The pudding mix will dissolve into the marshmallow mixture, creating a beautiful banana-scented base.
Step 4: Add Vanilla Extract
Remove the pot from heat immediately. Stir in vanilla extract quickly. The residual heat will activate the vanilla without cooking it off.
Step 5: Mix in Rice Krispies
Add Rice Krispies cereal to the marshmallow mixture. Here’s a pro tip: add half the cereal first, mix thoroughly, then add the remaining half. This method ensures even coating without crushing the cereal.
Work quickly but gently. The mixture will start to set as it cools.
Step 6: Add Vanilla Wafer Crumbles
Fold in ½ cup of crushed vanilla wafers. These crumbles should be roughly crushed, not powdered. They add texture and authentic banana pudding flavor.
Step 7: Press Into Pan
Transfer the mixture into your prepared pan. Use buttered hands or a piece of parchment paper to press the mixture evenly. Don’t press too hard or the treats will become dense.
Step 8: Top With Vanilla Wafers
Arrange whole vanilla wafers on top, pressing them gently into the surface. This creates a beautiful presentation and adds extra crunch.
Step 9: Cool and Set
Let the treats cool at room temperature for at least 30 minutes. They need this time to set properly. Rushing this step results in treats that fall apart when cut.
Step 10: Optional White Chocolate Drizzle
Melt white chocolate and drizzle over the cooled treats. This adds sweetness and makes them look bakery-quality.
Step 11: Cut and Serve
Lift the treats out using the parchment paper overhang. Cut into squares with a sharp knife. Clean the knife between cuts for neat edges.
Pro Tips and Variations for Best Rice Krispie Treats
These expert tips will help you master this banana cream rice krispie treats recipe and create your own variations.
Pro Tips:
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh marshmallows and cereal make a significant difference. Stale ingredients create chewy, hard treats instead of light and crispy ones.
Don’t Overcook: The biggest mistake people make is cooking marshmallows too long. Once melted, remove from heat immediately. Overcooked marshmallows create rock-hard treats.
Work Quickly: The mixture sets fast. Have everything ready before you start cooking. Pre-measure ingredients and prepare your pan in advance.
Butter Your Hands: When pressing the mixture into the pan, coat your hands with butter. This prevents sticking and makes shaping easier.
Room Temperature Storage: These treats stay freshest at room temperature. Refrigeration makes them hard and chewy.
Cut Clean Squares: Use a large, sharp knife sprayed with cooking spray. Wipe the blade between cuts for professional-looking squares.
Rice Krispie Treats Variations:
Chocolate Banana Version: Add ½ cup mini chocolate chips to the mixture before pressing into the pan. The chocolate and banana combination is heavenly.
Extra Banana Flavor: Use banana extract instead of vanilla extract for more intense banana taste. Add an extra tablespoon of pudding mix for bolder flavor.
Peanut Butter Twist: Swirl 2 tablespoons of melted peanut butter into the marshmallow mixture. Banana and peanut butter are classic partners.
Nutty Crunch: Add ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts along with the vanilla wafer crumbles. Nuts add sophistication and make these truly gourmet rice krispie treats.
Layered Version: Make a double batch. Press half the mixture into the pan, add a layer of sliced bananas, then top with the remaining mixture.
Caramel Drizzle: Replace white chocolate with caramel sauce. The combination of banana and caramel is restaurant-worthy.
Coconut Addition: Mix in ½ cup toasted coconut flakes for tropical flair. This variation works beautifully for summer gatherings.
Serving Suggestions for These Banana Dessert Recipes
These sweet snacks recipes work for countless occasions. Here are creative ways to serve your banana pudding rice krispie treats.
Casual Gatherings:
Cut into large squares and stack them on a serving platter. These treats are perfect finger foods for game nights, movie marathons, or afternoon snacks.
Birthday Parties:
Cut into smaller bite-sized pieces. Arrange them on colorful plates or in cupcake liners. Kids and adults love these portions.
Elegant Presentation:
Cut treats into rectangles and stand them vertically on a white serving board. Drizzle with white chocolate and garnish with fresh banana slices just before serving. This presentation elevates simple treats to dessert table centerpieces.
Potlucks and Picnics:
Wrap individual squares in plastic wrap or parchment paper. Tie with ribbon for portable, shareable treats that travel well.
Pairing Suggestions:
Serve with cold milk, coffee, or hot chocolate. The beverage balances the sweetness and enhances the banana flavor.
Fresh fruit makes an excellent side. Strawberries, blueberries, or apple slices add freshness and color to your dessert spread.
Storage and Make-Ahead:
Store these treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Layer them between parchment paper to prevent sticking.
For longer storage, freeze individual wrapped squares for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature for 30 minutes before serving.
Make these treats a day ahead for parties. They actually taste better after sitting overnight, allowing flavors to meld together.
Conclusion
This banana pudding rice krispie treats recipe proves that the best desserts often come from creative combinations. By merging two classic favorites, you create something entirely new and absolutely delicious.
The recipe requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor. No baking means no hot kitchen, making this perfect for summer months. The simple ingredient list keeps costs low while results taste expensive.
What makes this recipe special is its versatility. Follow the basic recipe for reliable results, or experiment with variations to make it your own. Either way, you’ll have a crowd-pleasing dessert that disappears quickly.
These treats work for any occasion, from casual family dinners to elegant parties. They’re appropriate for kids’ lunchboxes and sophisticated enough for adult gatherings.
The combination of creamy banana flavor, crispy texture, and crunchy vanilla wafers creates an unforgettable eating experience. Each bite delivers nostalgia and novelty simultaneously.
Try this recipe once, and it will become a regular in your dessert rotation. The simplicity, speed, and spectacular taste make these banana pudding rice krispies an instant classic.
FAQs About Rice Krispie Treats With Banana Pudding
Can I use prepared banana pudding instead of pudding mix?
No, prepared pudding adds too much moisture and makes the treats soggy. Dry pudding mix provides flavor without compromising texture. The powder dissolves perfectly into the melted marshmallows.
Why are my treats turning out hard?
Hard treats result from overcooking the marshmallows or pressing the mixture too firmly into the pan. Cook marshmallows just until melted, remove from heat immediately, and press gently when shaping.
Can I make these treats without vanilla wafers?
Yes, but vanilla wafers add authentic banana pudding flavor and texture. If unavailable, substitute graham cracker crumbs or shortbread cookie crumbles. The treats will still taste good but less like traditional banana pudding.
How do I prevent the treats from sticking to the pan?
Always line your pan with parchment paper with overhang on two sides. This creates handles for easy removal. Alternatively, butter the pan generously before adding the mixture.
Can I double this recipe?
Absolutely. Double all ingredients and use a 9×13 inch pan instead. Cooking time remains the same, but you may need to let them set slightly longer due to increased thickness.
What if I don’t have banana cream pudding mix?
Vanilla pudding mix works as a substitute, though you’ll lose the banana flavor. Add banana extract (½ teaspoon) to vanilla pudding mix for similar results.
How long do these treats stay fresh?
Properly stored in an airtight container at room temperature, these treats stay fresh for 3 days. They’re best within the first 2 days when texture remains optimal.
Can I add fresh bananas?
Fresh bananas add too much moisture and brown quickly. Stick with banana pudding mix for best results and longer shelf life.
Are these treats suitable for freezing?
Yes. Wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats
Ingredients
Method
- Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it. Set aside.
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Add mini marshmallows and stir until fully melted and smooth.
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and the dry banana cream pudding mix until fully combined.
- Gently fold in the Rice Krispies cereal until evenly coated with the marshmallow mixture.
- Transfer the mixture into the prepared pan. Press down gently with a spatula (or lightly greased hands) to spread evenly. Do not pack too tightly.
- Allow the treats to cool for about 30 minutes. Drizzle with melted white chocolate and sprinkle crushed vanilla wafers on top if desired.
- Cut into bars and serve. Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Notes
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Dietary Fiber: 0.5g
- Sugars: 26g
