Name: Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats for Sweet Nostalgic Bliss
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 80 min
Ingredients: 1 box Instant Banana Pudding Mix (Use vanilla pudding with added mashed bananas if needed.); 2 cups Milk (Any milk of choice (dairy or non-dairy) works perfectly.); 1/4 cup Butter (Substitute with margarine or coconut oil for a dairy-free option.); 4 cups Mini Marshmallows (Regular marshmallows are fine if mini are unavailable.); 6 cups Crispy Rice Cereal (You can swap for any similar crispy cereal if preferred.)

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Just as summer swings into gear, it’s the perfect time to whip up something quick and delightful for those impromptu gatherings. Enter the No-Bake Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats—a nostalgic treat that seamlessly blends creamy banana flavor with that satisfying crunch we all crave. In just 20 minutes, you can create a dessert that’s not only a breeze to prepare but also a guaranteed hit for friends and family alike. These easy-to-make treats offer a sweet trip down memory lane while ensuring that no one has to endure another fast-food run. So, are you ready to dive into a world of creamy, crunchy goodness that will leave everyone reaching for more?

What Makes These Treats So Special?

Nostalgic Flavor: The creamy banana taste transported me back to childhood, awakening fond memories.
Quick & Easy: Whip them up in just 20 minutes—perfect for those last-minute gatherings!
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Suitable for all ages, these treats are a guaranteed hit at parties or family picnics.
Versatile Options: Feeling adventurous? Try adding chocolate chips or colorful sprinkles for an extra twist! Check out more fun variations in our Peanut Butter Banana recipe.
No-Bake Convenience: No oven needed means you can enjoy summer fun without heating up your kitchen! Dive into a creamy and crunchy experience that everyone will love!

Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats Ingredients

For the Base
Instant Banana Pudding Mix – Provides rich banana flavor and creamy texture; use vanilla pudding with added mashed bananas if needed.
Milk – Activates the pudding mix for a smooth consistency; any milk of choice (dairy or non-dairy) works perfectly.
Butter – Binds the ingredients together and adds richness; feel free to substitute with margarine or coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
Mini Marshmallows – Creates the gooey texture necessary for Rice Krispie treats; regular marshmallows are fine if mini are unavailable.
For the Crunch
Crispy Rice Cereal – Delivers that satisfying crunch; you can swap for any similar crispy cereal if preferred.

These ingredients come together to create delightful Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats that are perfect for any gathering!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats

Step 1: Prepare the Pudding Mixture
In a small bowl, whisk together the instant banana pudding mix and the milk until smooth and thoroughly blended. Allow the mixture to sit for about 5 minutes, giving it time to thicken slightly. This step is crucial for achieving the creamy texture of your Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats.

Step 2: Melt the Marshmallows
In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, add the mini marshmallows and stir constantly for about 3–5 minutes, or until the marshmallows are completely melted and smooth. This gooey mixture will form the base for your treats, so be sure to keep an eye on it to prevent burning.

Step 3: Combine Pudding with Marshmallow
Remove the pot from heat and carefully pour the thickened banana pudding mixture into the melted marshmallows. Stir vigorously until the pudding and marshmallow mixtures are fully combined and no lumps remain. Take a moment to enjoy the sweet aroma as it will enhance the deliciousness of your Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats.

Step 4: Fold in the Crispy Rice Cereal
Gently fold the crispy rice cereal into the fluffy banana-pudding-marshmallow mixture. Mix carefully for about 1-2 minutes to ensure that the crispy cereal is evenly coated without losing its crunch. This step is vital to maintain the texture that makes these treats so enjoyable.

Step 5: Transfer to the Pan
Lightly grease a 9×13 inch pan with butter or non-stick spray. Pour the mixture into the prepared pan, using a greased spatula or a piece of wax paper to press it down evenly into the corners, ensuring a compact fit. This will help the Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats hold their shape once cooled.

Step 6: Allow to Cool and Set
Leave the treats to cool at room temperature for about 1 hour, allowing them to firm up. You’ll know they’re ready when they are no longer warm to the touch. This cooling process is essential for achieving the perfect chewy yet crunchy texture that everyone loves.

Step 7: Cut and Serve
Once completely cooled, use a sharp knife, lightly greased, to cut the treats into squares. For an extra touch, feel free to drizzle melted white chocolate over the top before serving to add a beautiful finish. These Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats are now ready to delight your family and friends!

Expert Tips for Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats

Thickening Trick: Allow the pudding mixture to thicken for about 5 minutes; this enhances creaminess and integrates well with the marshmallow mix.
Stir Constantly: To prevent burning, stir the mini marshmallows constantly as they melt. This ensures a smooth, gooey base for your Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats.
Gentle Folding: When mixing in the crispy rice cereal, fold gently to maintain its crunch. Avoid over-mixing, which can lead to a gummy texture.
Greasing for Success: Lightly grease your knife before cutting the treats for cleaner, neater squares that will impress everyone.
Storage Know-How: Store treats in an airtight container for up to three days and consider wrapping and freezing for later enjoyment, although some crunch may be lost.

Variations & Substitutions for Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats

Feel free to get creative with these delightful treats! Customize them to suit your taste and dietary needs.

Vanilla Twist: Substitute banana pudding with vanilla pudding and mash in some fresh bananas for a classic flavor.
You’ll still capture that yummy banana essence while bringing a new twist to the mix.
Dairy-Free Delight: Use coconut milk and coconut oil instead of regular milk and butter for a tropical, dairy-free option.
The results are just as creamy, with a luscious coconut flavor that pairs beautifully with the banana!
Nutty Boost: Add 1/2 cup of chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, for an earthy crunch.
This will add both a satisfying texture and an extra depth of flavor to enjoy in every bite.
Chocolate Lovers: Fold in 1/2 cup of mini chocolate chips for those who crave a touch of chocolatey sweetness.
It’s a delightful surprise that complements the banana flavor perfectly, making every treat a little more indulgent.
Sprinkle Fun: Top your treats with colorful sprinkles for a festive look, perfect for parties or celebrations.
Not only do they add a pop of color, but they also enhance the visual appeal, making them irresistible!
Peanut Butter Bliss: Swirl in some creamy peanut butter before chilling for a rich, nutty flavor.
This delicious addition pairs so well with the banana, creating an irresistible blend of taste and nostalgia. Check out our amazing Peanut Butter Banana recipe for more inspiration!
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cinnamon or a dash of cayenne if you love a hint of warmth and spice.
It’ll surprise your taste buds and bring a whole new flavor profile that dances on the palate!
Fruit Medley: Incorporate chopped strawberries or blueberries for a fruity punch—perfect for summer gatherings.
These vibrant additions will not only elevate the flavor but also make your treats pop with color!

Let your imagination run wild and enjoy personalizing these beloved Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats!

What to Serve with Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats

Elevate your dessert experience by pairing these treats with delightful accompaniments that balance flavors and textures.

Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or blueberries add a burst of freshness, cutting through the creaminess of the treats.
Cool Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream provides a light, airy contrast to the chewy bars, enhancing every bite.
Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzling melted chocolate on top offers a sweet touch, adding a rich flavor that complements the banana perfectly.
Coconut Flakes: Toasted coconut adds a nutty crunch, enhancing both texture and summer vibes for your dessert spread.
Flavored Ice Cream: Serve with creamy vanilla or banana ice cream for a decadent dessert experience that’s hard to resist.
Mint Tea: A refreshing cup of mint tea balances the sweetness, making it a perfect drink to cleanse the palate after the treats.
Creamy Fruit Dip: Pair with a yogurt-based fruit dip for an exciting contrast that encourages fresh fruit dippers to join the fun.
Coffee: A strong cup of brewed coffee complements the sweet and fruity notes, creating a delightful dessert experience for adults.

Make Ahead Options

These Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats are ideal for busy home cooks looking to speed up their dessert preparations! You can prepare the banana pudding mixture up to 24 hours in advance; simply whisk together the instant pudding mix and milk, then refrigerate it. Additionally, you can melt the butter and marshmallows the day before and store them in an airtight container at room temperature. When you’re ready to finish, reheat the butter and marshmallow mixture over low heat until it’s smooth, then combine with the chilled pudding. Fold in the crispy rice cereal, press into the pan, and allow to cool before cutting. This way, you’ll have a delightful treat on hand with minimal last-minute effort!

How to Store and Freeze Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats

Room Temperature: Keep the treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their delightful taste and texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the treats tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil or place them in an airtight freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 1 month, though some crunch may be lost.
Reheating: If desired, thaw treats overnight in the refrigerator, then let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before enjoying. This will help restore some of the original texture.
Serving Reminder: Consider cutting into squares before freezing for easy serving later—you’ll have delicious Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats ready to share at a moment’s notice!

Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe bananas for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting bananas for your Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats, look for ones that are slightly speckled with brown spots. These bananas are sweeter and have a more pronounced flavor, enhancing the banana pudding taste. Avoid overly dark or mushy bananas, as they can affect the texture.

How should I store leftover treats?
To keep your Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay delightful for up to 3 days. Just make sure they are kept away from direct sunlight or heat to maintain their flavor and texture!

Can I freeze Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats?
Yes, you can freeze these tasty treats! For optimal results, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil or place them in an airtight freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 1 month. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight, then let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving.

What do I do if my mixture is too sticky?
Very! If your marshmallow mixture is too sticky when combining with the crispy rice cereal, try greasing your hands or the mixing tool lightly with butter or oil. This will help you handle the mixture better without it sticking to everything. Remember, a gentle folding motion works best to avoid crushing the cereal!

Are these treats gluten-free?
Yes! To make your Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats gluten-free, ensure you use certified gluten-free crispy rice cereal and instant pudding mix. This way, you can enjoy this nostalgic dessert without any worries about gluten for those who have sensitivities or prefer gluten-free options.