If you’re craving a dessert that perfectly balances nostalgia with a fresh, fruity twist, the Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine the classic gooey, crispy texture of Rice Krispie treats infused with the creamy, dreamy flavor of banana pudding—a combination that brings joy in every bite. This treat is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a conversation starter at any gathering, effortlessly combining comfort and a touch of elegance in one simple yet show-stopping dish.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these ingredients is a breeze, but each plays a crucial role in crafting the perfect Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats Recipe. From buttery richness to the cool creaminess of banana pudding, every component adds layers of flavor and delightful texture.
- Unsalted butter (3 tbsp): Provides a smooth, rich base to perfectly melt your marshmallows without overpowering other flavors.
- Mini marshmallows (1 package, 10 oz): The classic gooey binder that makes Rice Krispies irresistibly chewy and soft.
- Rice Krispies cereal (6 cups): Offers that signature crispy crunch essential to the treat’s delightful texture.
- Instant banana pudding mix (1 package, 3.4 oz): Brings a luscious banana flavor that elevates the entire dish to something truly special.
- Cold milk (2 cups): Helps whisk the pudding mix into a smooth, creamy topping perfectly balanced in sweetness.
- Whipped cream or whipped topping (1 cup): Adds a cloud-like layer on top, enriching the flavor and presentation.
- Sliced bananas (optional): For an extra pop of fresh fruitiness and a lovely visual garnish.
How to Make Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan
Start by greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish or lining it with parchment paper. This crucial step ensures your treats slide out effortlessly once they’re set, making cutting and serving a true joy rather than a sticky struggle.
Step 2: Melt Butter and Marshmallows
In a large pot over low heat, melt the unsalted butter gently before adding the mini marshmallows. Stir continuously until the marshmallows are melted and the mixture is smooth and velvety. This warm, sticky base is what holds your treats together and gives them that perfect chew.
Step 3: Add the Rice Krispies
Remove the pot from heat and immediately fold in the Rice Krispies cereal. Stir until every single crisp is coated in that marshmallowy goodness, ensuring you’ll get crunchy bites wrapped in gooey sweetness throughout your Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats Recipe.
Step 4: Press Into Pan
Press the marshmallow-rice mixture firmly and evenly into your prepared pan. Use a spatula or wax paper to smooth the surface without squishing out all the air—those little pockets are what keep your treat delightfully light and textured.
Step 5: Prepare the Banana Pudding Layer
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the instant banana pudding mix with cold milk until it’s smooth and only slightly thickened. This fresh banana pudding layer adds that signature creamy, fruity lift that transforms the traditional Rice Krispie into a magical Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats Recipe experience.
Step 6: Spread the Pudding Over the Crispy Layer
Gently spread the pudding mixture over the pressed Rice Krispie base in an even layer. This topping will set into a creamy, luscious blanket after chilling, perfecting the harmony of flavors and textures.
Step 7: Chill Until Set
Place your dish in the refrigerator and chill for at least one hour. This allows the pudding layer to firm up, making your Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats Recipe perfectly sliceable and ready for serving.
Step 8: Add Whipped Cream and Garnish
Before serving, spread a generous layer of whipped cream or whipped topping over the set pudding and add fresh sliced bananas if you’d like. These final touches add richness and that lovely fresh banana flavor to perfectly round out the dessert.
How to Serve Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats Recipe
Garnishes
For a simple yet stunning finish, top your treats with extra whipped cream and a few thin slices of banana right before serving. This adds an inviting freshness and makes every bite a perfect balance between creamy, crunchy, and fruity.
Side Dishes
Pair these treats with light, fruity drinks like iced tea with lemon or a sparkling soda to complement the sweetness without overwhelming your palate. A scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side can also intensify the indulgence for special occasions.
Creative Ways to Present
Slice these treats into fun shapes using cookie cutters for parties or layer them in clear cups as parfaits with extra whipped cream and banana slices for an elegant presentation. You can even drizzle melted white chocolate over the top for a decorative touch and added flavor dimension.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying a few slices, cover leftovers tightly with plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container. Keep them refrigerated to maintain the pudding’s creamy texture and prevent the treats from drying out. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
Freezing
You can freeze Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats Recipe for longer storage. Wrap individual servings in plastic wrap and foil to protect from freezer burn. When properly stored, they last up to one month in the freezer without losing flavor or texture.
Reheating
This treat is best enjoyed chilled, so avoid reheating. If you’d like softer marshmallows or a more pliable texture after refrigeration, let your treat sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to shine without compromising the pudding layer.
FAQs
Can I use homemade banana pudding instead of instant mix?
Absolutely! Using homemade banana pudding can bring an even richer flavor and creamier texture to your Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats Recipe. Just be sure it’s thick enough to spread and set properly over the crispy layer.
What if I don’t have mini marshmallows? Can I use regular-sized ones?
Yes, regular marshmallows can work, but you may want to chop them into smaller pieces to ensure they melt evenly and quickly without burning.
Can I add nuts or other mix-ins to the Rice Krispie layer?
Feel free to toss in chopped nuts or even chocolate chips into the crispy mixture before pressing it into the pan for added texture and flavor contrast. Just keep in mind it might slightly alter the classic balance of the dessert.
Is there a dairy-free version of this recipe?
Yes! Use dairy-free margarine or coconut oil instead of butter, a plant-based milk for the pudding, and coconut whipped topping to make a dairy-free Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats Recipe that’s just as delicious.
How do I make sure the pudding layer sets well?
Make sure to use cold milk while mixing the instant pudding and chill the dish for at least one hour uninterrupted. This allows the pudding to thicken firmly, making slicing easier and the treat more cohesive.
Final Thoughts
The Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats Recipe combines everything wonderful about classic comfort food with a fruity, fresh twist that elevates it to a whole new level. Whether you’re making it for a crowd, a family dessert, or a special celebration, it’s sure to bring smiles and satisfy every sweet tooth. Don’t hesitate—grab your ingredients and start whipping up this joyful treat today. Your taste buds will thank you!
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Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats combine the classic crispy marshmallow dessert with a creamy banana pudding layer for a delightful twist. Perfectly sweet and satisfyingly crunchy, they make a fun and easy no-bake treat that’s chilled and topped with whipped cream and fresh banana slices for extra flavor.
Ingredients
Base Layer
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 package (10 oz) mini marshmallows
- 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
Banana Pudding Layer
- 1 package (3.4 oz) instant banana pudding mix
- 2 cups cold milk
Topping
- 1 cup whipped cream or whipped topping
- Sliced bananas for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make removal easier.
- Melt Butter and Marshmallows: In a large pot over low heat, melt the unsalted butter. Add the mini marshmallows and stir continuously until they are completely melted and the mixture is smooth.
- Combine with Cereal: Remove the pot from heat and immediately stir in the Rice Krispies cereal until every piece is well coated with the marshmallow mixture.
- Press into Dish: Transfer the marshmallow-cereal mixture into the prepared baking dish and press it in evenly to form the base layer of the dessert.
- Prepare Banana Pudding: In a separate bowl, whisk together the instant banana pudding mix with the cold milk until the mixture is smooth and starts to thicken slightly.
- Spread Pudding Layer: Evenly spread the banana pudding mixture over the Rice Krispie base layer in the dish.
- Chill: Place the assembled dish in the refrigerator and chill for at least 1 hour, allowing the pudding layer to set firmly.
- Add Toppings and Serve: Before serving, top the dessert with whipped cream or whipped topping and garnish with sliced bananas for extra flavor and decoration.
Notes
- Make sure to melt the marshmallows on low heat to avoid burning or scorching.
- Press the Rice Krispie mixture firmly into the pan for a compact base that holds together well.
- The dessert should be chilled thoroughly for the best texture and ease of cutting.
- Use fresh bananas and add them just before serving to prevent browning.
- For a dairy-free option, substitute milk and whipped topping with plant-based versions.
