Banana Pudding Rice Krispies Treats Recipe

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If you’re ready to embark on a nostalgic yet delightfully fresh treat adventure, this Banana Pudding Rice Krispies Treats Recipe is just what you need. Combining the crunchy, familiar texture of Rice Krispies with the creamy, dreamy flavor of banana pudding, these treats bring together the best of both worlds in a way that’s irresistibly satisfying. Lightly sweet with a hint of vanilla wafer crunch and optional white chocolate chips, this recipe takes a classic favorite to a whole new level that’s perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or an everyday sweet fix. Once you try these, they’ll quickly become a cherished staple in your dessert repertoire.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Banana Pudding Rice Krispies Treats Recipe comes down to a handful of simple but essential ingredients. Each one plays a starring role, whether it’s adding crunch, creaminess, or that unmistakable banana flavor that ties it all together.

• 5 cups Rice Krispies cereal: This classic cereal provides the iconic crispy, airy texture that makes every bite delightful.
• 1 package (3.4 oz) instant banana pudding mix: The key to capturing that authentic banana pudding flavor without the fuss of cooking.
• ¼ cup unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps melt the marshmallows for a smooth, sticky binding base.
• 1 bag (10 oz) mini marshmallows: Creates the gooey, irresistible marshmallow coating that holds everything together.
• ½ cup crushed vanilla wafers: Introduces an extra layer of mellow vanilla crunch for texture contrast.
• ½ cup white chocolate chips (optional): For those who love a little extra sweetness and creaminess melted throughout the treat.
• Sliced bananas (optional for serving): A fresh touch to enhance the banana flavor and add a natural fruity freshness.

How to Make Banana Pudding Rice Krispies Treats Recipe

Step 1: Combine the Dry Ingredients

Start by mixing together the Rice Krispies cereal and crushed vanilla wafers in a large bowl. This blend forms the foundation of your treat, combining light crispness with buttery vanilla crunch that makes every bite interesting and delicious.

Step 2: Melt Butter and Marshmallows

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter first. Then add the mini marshmallows and stir continuously until completely melted and smooth. This sticky, creamy mixture is what binds all your ingredients together beautifully.

Step 3: Add the Banana Pudding Mix

Once your marshmallows are melted, stir in the instant banana pudding mix thoroughly. This step is where the magic happens as the pudding flavor infuses into the marshmallow base, giving your treats their signature banana pudding taste.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Quickly pour the warm marshmallow and pudding mixture over the rice cereal and vanilla wafer blend. Stir everything together until every bit of cereal is evenly coated with the creamy mixture. Don’t delay—the mixture starts to set fast!

Step 5: Fold in White Chocolate Chips (Optional)

If you want to add another sweet layer, gently fold in the white chocolate chips now so they melt slightly into the warm mixture without losing their shape, adding pockets of luscious creaminess.

Step 6: Press the Mixture into the Pan

Transfer the mixture into a prepared 9×13-inch pan. Use wax paper or lightly greased hands to press the mixture down evenly, making sure it’s compact so the treats hold together well once set.

Step 7: Let the Treats Cool and Set

Allow the pan to sit undisturbed at room temperature for at least 30 minutes. This gives the treats enough time to firm up so they can be cut neatly into squares.

Step 8: Serve with Sliced Bananas (Optional)

Once cooled and cut, you can serve these gorgeous treats with fresh sliced bananas on the side or on top for an extra boost of banana flavor and a touch of freshness that perfectly balances the sweetness.

How to Serve Banana Pudding Rice Krispies Treats Recipe

Garnishes

To elevate your Banana Pudding Rice Krispies Treats Recipe, consider garnishing with extra crushed vanilla wafers, a light dusting of powdered sugar, or a drizzle of melted white chocolate. Fresh banana slices add an inviting, fresh note while making your presentation pop with color.

Side Dishes

Pair these treats with a cool glass of milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a nostalgic pairing that never disappoints. They also go great with a light fruit salad to balance the richness with a fresh burst of flavor.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, turn your treats into mini parfaits layered in clear cups with whipped cream and banana slices, or use cookie cutters to create fun shapes for parties or themed events. You could even serve them on skewers interspersed with fruits for a party-ready snack everyone will love.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your Banana Pudding Rice Krispies Treats Recipe fresh by storing leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature. They stay perfectly chewy and flavorful for up to 3 days, making them a fantastic make-ahead snack.

Freezing

If you want to keep these treats around longer, wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap and freeze them in a sealed container. They can keep well for up to a month and thaw quickly at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy.

Reheating

While these treats are best enjoyed fresh, if you like them softer, a few seconds in the microwave can revive their gooey, melty appeal. Just be careful not to overheat and lose that perfect texture.

FAQs

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

Instant banana pudding mix is ideal here because it blends easily without additional cooking, ensuring the right texture and flavor. Using regular pudding might add extra moisture and change the consistency of the treats.

Do I have to add white chocolate chips?

Not at all! White chocolate chips are optional and add extra sweetness and creaminess. The treats are delicious on their own, but the chips are a nice touch if you want to get a little fancy.

What if I don’t have vanilla wafers to crush?

Vanilla wafers add a subtle crunch and vanilla flavor, but if you don’t have them, graham crackers or even crushed shortbread cookies can be a great substitute to keep that lovely texture contrast.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just swap the Rice Krispies for a gluten-free crispy rice cereal and make sure to use gluten-free vanilla wafers or omit them entirely to keep the recipe safe for gluten-sensitive guests.

How long can I store the treats before serving?

They’re best enjoyed within 2-3 days for optimal freshness and texture. Beyond that, they may start to dry out but can still be enjoyed if stored properly in an airtight container.

Final Thoughts

You really can’t go wrong with this Banana Pudding Rice Krispies Treats Recipe. It’s fun, simple, and delivers a wave of nostalgia with each bite, elevated by the classic flavors of banana pudding and vanilla wafers. Perfect for any occasion or just because, I encourage you to give this recipe a try—you’ll be surprised how quickly it disappears once shared!

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