If you’re looking for a nostalgic treat that delivers all the cozy flavors of classic banana pudding wrapped up in a playful, handheld bar, you absolutely must try this Banana Pudding Rice Krispies Recipe. Imagine the vanilla-scented comfort of banana pudding meeting the satisfyingly chewy crunch of Rice Krispies, all laced with creamy white chocolate, crunchy vanilla wafers, and a hint of luscious banana flavor. It’s a fun no-bake dessert that comes together in minutes, is an instant crowd-pleaser, and just might become your new go-to for parties, potlucks, or just a sweet afternoon pick-me-up!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the ingredients for this Banana Pudding Rice Krispies Recipe couldn’t be easier! Each component is carefully chosen to bring a burst of flavor or the perfect texture, so don’t skip a thing. Here’s what you need and why you need it:
- Rice Krispies cereal: The essential crispy base that gives each bar its signature snap and lightness.
- Mini marshmallows: Melted down, they hold everything together and give that irresistible gooey chew.
- Unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps the marshmallow mixture glide smoothly over every cereal puff.
- Instant banana pudding mix (dry): This is where that classic banana pudding flavor sneaks in—it’s fragrant, sweet, and pure nostalgia.
- Vanilla extract: Just a splash amps up the bakery-style aroma and highlights the banana flavors.
- Crushed vanilla wafers: For a delightful crunch and a nod to the traditional banana pudding layers we all adore.
- White chocolate chips (optional): Creamy sweetness that makes every bite feel a little bit decadent—add if you love extra richness.
- Banana chips or fresh banana slices (optional garnish): Beautiful on top and brings an extra pop of banana flair, both visually and in flavor.
How to Make Banana Pudding Rice Krispies Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Pan
Start by lining a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper or giving it a light coat of grease. This tiny step saves major hassle later, ensuring your Banana Pudding Rice Krispies Recipe bars lift out with zero sticking and perfectly clean edges.
Step 2: Melt the Butter and Marshmallows
In a large pot set over low heat, add your unsalted butter and let it melt gently. Toss in the mini marshmallows and stir constantly—slow and steady wins the race here! You want them to melt into a glossy, smooth mixture without browning, which gives your bars that signature soft and chewy texture.
Step 3: Boost the Flavor
Sprinkle in the dry instant banana pudding mix and vanilla extract. Stir well to combine, making sure the pudding powder dissolves completely. This trick is where the Banana Pudding Rice Krispies Recipe takes a magical turn, infusing every bite with that unmistakable banana pudding aroma and flavor.
Step 4: Add Cereal and Crunch
Remove your pot from the heat and quickly fold in the Rice Krispies cereal and crushed vanilla wafers. Work quickly but gently, coating all the cereal before it cools. The mixture will be sticky but oh-so worth the effort!
Step 5: Stir in Extras
If you’re a fan of a little indulgence, now’s the time to gently stir in white chocolate chips. Do this while the mixture is still warm but not piping hot, so the chips stay mostly intact and deliver big pockets of creamy sweetness.
Step 6: Press and Set
Transfer everything into your prepared pan. Use a greased spatula or a sheet of wax paper to firmly press the mixture into an even layer. Let it cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes—enough time for everything to set.
Step 7: Slice and Garnish
Once set, slice your Banana Pudding Rice Krispies Recipe into tidy squares. If you’re feeling a little extra, scatter banana chips or slices of fresh banana on top just before serving. It makes the bars look just as amazing as they taste!
How to Serve Banana Pudding Rice Krispies Recipe
Garnishes
For an eye-catching finish, sprinkle the tops with crushed vanilla wafers, a handful of banana chips, or even a few drizzles of melted white chocolate. Fresh banana slices are always a hit, but add them just before serving to keep everything at its best.
Side Dishes
Pair these bars with a refreshing fruit salad, some whipped cream, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a cool and creamy contrast. A glass of cold milk or your favorite coffee drink also makes for a simple, satisfying match.
Creative Ways to Present
Try cutting the Banana Pudding Rice Krispies Recipe into bite-sized bars for dessert buffets or tucking them into cupcake wrappers for easy party serving. Layer squares in a trifle glass with whipped cream and extra banana slices for an impressive, party-ready parfait.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your Banana Pudding Rice Krispies Recipe bars will stay delicious for up to three days when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. Keep them out of the fridge, as refrigeration can make them hard and less chewy.
Freezing
While technically you can freeze these bars, their texture is best enjoyed fresh. If you must freeze them, wrap well and place in a zip-top bag, removing as much air as possible. Thaw at room temperature—but note that the cereal may lose some crispiness once frozen and thawed.
Reheating
These no-bake treats don’t require reheating, but if you want to soften them up after a day or two, just let them sit at room temperature for a while. Avoid the microwave, as it can make them unevenly gooey or overly hard.
FAQs
Can I use regular marshmallows instead of mini?
Absolutely! If you only have full-size marshmallows, just chop them up for easier melting. Use an equal weight (about 10 ounces) for the perfect gooey base.
What if I can’t find instant banana pudding mix?
If instant banana pudding isn’t available, you could substitute with another flavor (like vanilla) and add a few drops of banana extract for similar results. The special flavor is all about nostalgia, so use what brings those banana pudding memories to life for you!
How can I make these bars vegan?
Swap the butter for a dairy-free alternative, use vegan marshmallows, and check that your cereal and pudding mix are plant-based. Vegan options might slightly alter the taste and texture, but the result will still be deliciously fun!
Can I add nuts or other mix-ins?
Definitely! Chopped pecans, walnuts, or even a swirl of peanut butter are all yummy additions. Just fold them in with the cereal for an extra flavor twist in your Banana Pudding Rice Krispies Recipe bars.
Are these bars gluten-free?
Most Rice Krispies cereals contain malt flavoring and aren’t gluten-free. Look for a certified gluten-free puffed rice cereal and gluten-free vanilla wafers, plus check labels on the other ingredients to make this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets.
Final Thoughts
This Banana Pudding Rice Krispies Recipe is a sunshine-filled bite of pure joy, perfect for sharing with family and friends or sneaking as a sweet solo treat. Whether you love banana pudding, Rice Krispie treats, or simply crave something cheerful and quick, these bars are sure to win hearts. Give them a try—you just might find yourself making them again and again!
Print
Banana Pudding Rice Krispies Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes (plus cooling)
- Yield: 12 squares
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the delightful combination of banana pudding and Rice Krispies with this easy-to-make, no-bake treat. Creamy, crunchy, and utterly delicious, these banana pudding Rice Krispies squares are perfect for any sweet craving!
Ingredients
Rice Krispies Mixture:
- 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
- 1 (10 oz) bag mini marshmallows
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
Banana Pudding Mix:
- 1 (3.4 oz) box instant banana pudding mix (dry)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup crushed vanilla wafers
- 1/2 cup white chocolate chips (optional)
- 1/4 cup banana chips or fresh banana slices for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Rice Krispies Mixture: Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it. In a large pot over low heat, melt the butter. Add the mini marshmallows and stir constantly until fully melted and smooth.
- Combine Ingredients: Stir in the dry banana pudding mix and vanilla extract until well combined. Remove from heat and quickly fold in the Rice Krispies cereal and crushed vanilla wafers.
- Add Optional Ingredients: If using, gently stir in the white chocolate chips while the mixture is still warm but not too hot to avoid melting.
- Set and Garnish: Press the mixture into the prepared pan using a greased spatula or wax paper. Let cool at room temperature for 30 minutes, then slice into squares. Garnish with banana chips or fresh banana slices just before serving, if desired.
Notes
- Use banana-flavored marshmallows for an extra boost of flavor.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Do not refrigerate, as it can harden the texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 125mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
