Banana Pudding Rice Krispies Treats are a delightful twist on the classic dessert that many of us know and love. Imagine the creamy, sweet flavor of banana pudding combined with the satisfying crunch of Rice Krispies – it’s a match made in dessert heaven! This recipe not only brings a nostalgic taste to the table but also pays homage to the beloved Southern dessert that has graced family gatherings for generations. People adore these treats for their unique texture, blending the gooeyness of marshmallows with the crispiness of cereal, creating a perfect balance that keeps you coming back for more.

What makes Banana Pudding Rice Krispies Treats even more appealing is their convenience; they come together in just a few simple steps, making them an ideal choice for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings. Whether you’re a fan of banana pudding or simply looking for a fun and easy dessert, this recipe is sure to impress. Join me as we dive into the world of Banana Pudding Rice Krispies Treats and discover how to create this scrumptious treat that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Ingredients:

6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup light corn syrup
1 cup unsalted butter (2 sticks)
1 package (3.4 oz) instant banana pudding mix
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup mini marshmallows
1 cup sliced bananas (fresh or dried, depending on preference)
1 cup whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
1/2 cup crushed vanilla wafers (for topping)

Preparing the Base

In a large saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, light corn syrup, and unsalted butter. Place the saucepan over medium heat.
Stir the mixture continuously until the butter has completely melted and the sugar has dissolved. This should take about 3-5 minutes. Be careful not to let it boil too vigorously.
Once the mixture is smooth and well combined, remove it from the heat. Stir in the instant banana pudding mix, vanilla extract, and salt until fully incorporated. The mixture will thicken slightly as you stir.

Combining with Rice Krispies

In a large mixing bowl, add the Rice Krispies cereal. Pour the warm pudding mixture over the cereal.
Using a spatula or wooden spoon, gently fold the cereal into the pudding mixture. Make sure all the cereal is evenly coated. This step is crucial for achieving that delicious, gooey texture.
Once the Rice Krispies are well coated, fold in the mini marshmallows and sliced bananas. If you’re using fresh bananas, be gentle to avoid mashing them.

Setting the Treats

Prepare a 9×13 inch baking dish by greasing it lightly with butter or non-stick spray. This will help prevent the treats from sticking.
Transfer the Rice Krispies mixture into the prepared baking dish. Using a spatula, press the mixture down firmly and evenly into the dish. Make sure to pack it tightly so that the treats hold their shape once set.
Allow the mixture to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes. If you’re in a hurry, you can place it in the refrigerator to speed up the cooling process.

Adding the Whipped Topping

Once the Rice Krispies treats have cooled and set, it’s time to add the whipped topping. Spread the whipped topping evenly over the top of the treats using a spatula.
For an extra touch of flavor and texture, sprinkle the crushed vanilla wafers over the whipped topping. This will give a nice crunch and enhance the banana flavor.
If you want to get creative, you can also add a few more banana slices on top for decoration. This not only looks appealing but also adds a fresh banana flavor.

Serving the Treats

Using a sharp knife, cut the treats into squares or rectangles, depending on your preference. I usually aim for about 2-inch squares, but you can adjust the size based on how many people you’re serving.
Carefully lift the squares out of the baking dish and place them on a serving platter. If you have any leftover crushed vanilla wafers, feel free to sprinkle them on top for an extra decorative touch.
These Banana Pudding Rice Krispies Treats are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’re making them ahead of time, I recommend adding the whipped topping just before serving to keep it fresh.

Tips and Variations

If you want to enhance the banana flavor even more, consider adding a few drops of banana extract to the pudding mixture.
For a chocolate twist, you can mix in some mini chocolate chips along with the marshmallows and bananas.
If you’re a fan of nuts,

Conclusion:

In wrapping up this delightful journey into the world of Banana Pudding Rice Krispies Treats, I can confidently say that this recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their dessert game. The combination of creamy banana pudding, crunchy Rice Krispies, and the sweet, nostalgic flavor of vanilla makes for a treat that is not only delicious but also incredibly fun to make. Whether you’re preparing for a family gathering, a potluck, or simply craving a sweet snack, these treats are sure to impress. For serving suggestions, consider pairing these Banana Pudding Rice Krispies Treats with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of crushed vanilla wafers on top for added texture and flavor. You can also experiment with variations by adding in some chocolate chips, nuts, or even a swirl of peanut butter for a unique twist. The possibilities are endless, and I encourage you to get creative! I genuinely hope you give this recipe a try and experience the joy it brings. Once you’ve made your own batch of Banana Pudding Rice Krispies Treats, I would love to hear about your experience! Share your thoughts, any variations you tried, or even a photo of your delicious creation. Let’s spread the love for this delightful treat together! Happy cooking!