Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats

Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats bring together two nostalgic favorites in a single bite The classic gooey marshmallow cereal bars get a sweet banana dessert twist that always hits the spot whenever I bring these to a picnic or birthday party they vanish fast

This mashup was a game changer for my dessert table I remember bringing a batch to my nephew’s birthday and they disappeared before anything else could get touched That’s how I knew it was a keeper

Ingredients

• Instant banana pudding mix: This is where all the banana flavor comes from Look for a good-quality name brand and check the expiration for best taste
• Milk: Just a quarter cup helps dissolve the pudding and deepens the creamy flavor Use whole milk for richness
• Mini marshmallows: The gooey magic that holds these treats together Always opt for fresh marshmallows older ones can dry out leading to brittle treats
• Unsalted butter: Gives richness and balances the sweetness Choose real butter over margarine for the best results
• Crispy rice cereal: Adds crunch I find name brand usually gives the best crispness but generic works if you like
• Crushed vanilla wafers: Layering in classic banana pudding crunch Choose a crispy golden wafer
• White chocolate chips: Optional for a sweet decorative drizzle I like using good-quality baking chocolate that melts smoothly

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Banana Pudding Mixture:

Whisk the pudding mix and milk in a small bowl until smooth with no lumps Let it rest for a minute to thicken slightly The mixture should resemble creamy cake batter and not be too thin

Melt the Marshmallows:

Set a large sturdy pot over medium heat Add the butter and let it melt until just foamy then stir in the mini marshmallows Stir gently and constantly Let the marshmallows melt fully until the mixture loses all lumps and you have a smooth glossy finish

Combine the Mixtures:

Reduce the heat to low and immediately pour in your banana pudding mix Whisk quickly and fully so it melts with the marshmallows If you see streaks keep stirring It is essential this is well mixed so every bite gets that banana flavor

Add the Cereal:

Turn off the heat Pour in all of the crispy rice cereal and stir with a sturdy spatula or wooden spoon Work quickly but gently so the cereal stays crisp Keep folding from the bottom until every bit is coated Now quickly add the crushed vanilla wafers Fold those in gently These will add a sweet cookie crunch that echoes banana pudding

Assemble the Treats:

Grease a 9 by 13 inch pan with softened butter or spray for easy removal Transfer the sticky cereal mixture into the pan Work quickly and press evenly into corners A greased spatula or wax paper helps keep things neat and nonsticky If you are using white chocolate Melt the chips in a microwave safe bowl checking every 15 seconds until just fluid Drizzle in zigzags over the surface

Cool and Serve:

Let the pan rest out on the counter for at least an hour so the treats set and firm up Once cool use a sharp knife to cut squares Gently lift out and serve

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I always look forward to swirling the white chocolate drizzle because it adds a bakery vibe and the kids always ask to lick the bowl My sister once declared the vanilla wafers the best part and now I tuck in extra for her

Storage Tips

Keep these treats fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days If you need to hold them longer wrap individual squares in wax paper and seal in a freezer bag They thaw quickly with no loss in texture

Ingredient Substitutions

If you cannot find banana pudding mix try vanilla pudding and add half a mashed ripe banana for real fruit flavor For dairy free treats use vegan marshmallows and margarine Make it gluten free by choosing gluten free crispy rice cereal and skipping the wafers

Serving Suggestions

Pile the squares on a big tray and scatter with extra sliced bananas for fun or serve alongside other picnic treats for a retro dessert spread Sometimes I cut them extra small for lunchboxes or party platters for a bite sized treat

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Indulge in these treats knowing they're the perfect mix of nostalgia and modern dessert magic

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use homemade pudding instead of instant mix?

Yes, but ensure it's thickened well. Instant mix keeps it simple and quick, but homemade adds richer banana flavor if desired.

→ Should the vanilla wafers be finely crushed or chunky?

Lightly crush for a mix of texture. Tiny chunks add crunchy bites and flavor bursts throughout the treats.

→ Is the white chocolate drizzle required?

No, it's optional. It adds a subtle sweetness and decorative touch but can be omitted if you prefer a classic bar.

→ Can I make these ahead of time?

Absolutely. Store them airtight at room temperature for up to 3 days for best freshness and texture.

→ My treats came out sticky. How can I avoid this?

Allow bars to cool completely before cutting. Lightly greasing your pan and spatula also helps prevent sticking.