Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats

Why You’ll Love Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats Recipe

These treats are the perfect blend of creamy and crunchy. They’re easy to make, require no baking, and come together quickly with pantry staples. The banana pudding layer adds a cool, silky finish that pairs beautifully with the chewy marshmallow cereal base. Whether you’re making these for a picnic, potluck, or simply craving something sweet, they’re a guaranteed hit.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• unsalted butter

• mini marshmallows

• Rice Krispies cereal

• instant banana pudding mix

• cold milk

• whipped cream or whipped topping

• sliced bananas for garnish (optional)

Directions

1. Prepare the Pan
   Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

2. Make Rice Krispie Base
   In a large pot over low heat, melt the butter. Add the mini marshmallows and stir until fully melted and smooth.

3. Mix in Cereal
   Remove the pot from heat and stir in the Rice Krispies cereal until everything is evenly coated.

4. Press into Pan
   Press the cereal mixture firmly and evenly into the prepared baking dish using a buttered spatula or parchment paper.

5. Prepare Banana Pudding Layer
   In a medium bowl, whisk together the instant banana pudding mix and cold milk until smooth and slightly thickened.

6. Layering
   Spread the banana pudding mixture evenly over the Rice Krispie layer.

7. Chill
   Refrigerate the dish for at least 1 hour, or until the pudding layer is fully set.

8. Finish and Serve
   Once chilled, top the pudding layer with whipped cream or whipped topping. Garnish with fresh banana slices if desired. Slice and serve.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes approximately 12–16 servings, depending on how large you slice the bars. Total time required is about 1 hour and 15 minutes, including chilling time. Active prep takes about 15 minutes.

Variations

• Chocolate Banana Twist: Add mini chocolate chips to the pudding layer for a chocolatey surprise.

• Vanilla Wafers Crumble: Sprinkle crushed vanilla wafers over the whipped cream layer for added crunch and a nod to classic banana pudding.

• Peanut Butter Swirl: Mix a few tablespoons of peanut butter into the marshmallow mixture before adding the cereal for a banana-peanut butter flavor.

• Banana Cream Pie Style: Add a layer of sliced bananas between the Rice Krispie and pudding layers for extra banana goodness.

• Pudding Swap: Try using vanilla or white chocolate pudding mix for a different twist.

Storage/Reheating

Store Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Because of the pudding and whipped cream layers, refrigeration is necessary to keep the dessert fresh and safe to eat. These treats are not ideal for freezing, as the texture of the pudding may become watery upon thawing. No reheating is needed—just serve chilled.

FAQs

How long do Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats last?

They’re best enjoyed within 2–3 days when stored properly in the fridge.

Can I make these treats ahead of time?

Yes, you can make them a day ahead. Just wait to add the whipped cream and bananas until you’re ready to serve.

Do I need to use instant pudding mix?

Yes, instant pudding sets quickly and creates the desired creamy layer. Cook-and-serve pudding will not set properly in this recipe.

Can I freeze these treats?

It’s not recommended. Freezing may cause the pudding and whipped topping to separate and become watery.

Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of whipped topping?

Absolutely! Homemade whipped cream adds a fresh, rich touch. Just be sure it’s stabilized if you’re making the treats in advance.

Are these gluten-free?

Rice Krispies cereal contains malt flavoring derived from barley, which is not gluten-free. Use a certified gluten-free crispy rice cereal if needed.

Can I use flavored marshmallows?

Yes, banana or vanilla-flavored marshmallows can enhance the flavor, though regular marshmallows work just fine.

What can I use instead of bananas for garnish?

Try thinly sliced strawberries, crushed vanilla wafers, or a drizzle of caramel for a unique twist.

Can I use a different cereal?

You could try puffed rice or cornflakes, but the texture and structure may differ from traditional Rice Krispie treats.

Is there a way to make it dairy-free?

Use a plant-based butter, non-dairy milk, and dairy-free whipped topping. Also, check that your pudding mix is dairy-free.

Conclusion

Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats are a creative, crowd-pleasing dessert that brings together beloved flavors and textures in one easy recipe. With minimal ingredients and no oven required, this layered treat is perfect for any occasion. Creamy, crispy, and full of banana flavor—this is a dessert worth making again and again.

Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats

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A fun and delicious twist on classic Rice Krispie treats, these Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats combine gooey marshmallows, crispy cereal, and creamy banana pudding for a no-bake dessert everyone will love.

• Author: Emily
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
• Yield: 12 servings
• Category: Dessert
• Method: No-Bake
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 package (10 oz) mini marshmallows
• 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
• 1 package (3.4 oz) instant banana pudding mix
• 2 cups cold milk
• 1 cup whipped cream or whipped topping
• Sliced bananas for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

1. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
2. In a large pot, melt the butter over low heat.
3. Add the mini marshmallows and stir until completely melted and smooth.
4. Remove the pot from heat and stir in the Rice Krispies cereal until well coated.
5. Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the prepared baking dish using a buttered spatula or parchment paper.
6. In a medium bowl, whisk together the instant banana pudding mix and cold milk until smooth and slightly thickened.
7. Spread the banana pudding mixture evenly over the Rice Krispie layer.
8. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or until the pudding layer is set.
9. Before serving, spread whipped cream or whipped topping over the chilled pudding layer.
10. Optionally, garnish with sliced bananas, slice, and serve.

Notes

• Use parchment paper or a buttered spatula to prevent sticking when pressing the cereal mixture.
• For added banana flavor, layer thin banana slices between the pudding and cereal layers.
• Best served the same day to avoid soggy cereal from banana slices.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 square
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 18g
• Sodium: 140mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 10mg