The first time I made Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats, I was taken aback by how effortlessly they came together, blending my favorite childhood flavors into a delightful, no-bake dessert. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a sweet treat that’s not only quick to prepare but also a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Combining the creamy taste of banana pudding with the satisfying crunch of Rice Krispies creates a nostalgic experience that’s perfect for family gatherings or an indulgent evening snack. Plus, this vegetarian recipe means everyone can enjoy it—no fuss, just deliciousness! Ready to dive into this playful twist on a classic dessert? Let’s make some magic happen in the kitchen!

Why will you love these treats?

Simplicity: This no-bake recipe lets you create a delicious dessert with minimal effort and fuss, perfect for any home cook.

Nostalgic Flavors: Experience the classic taste of childhood with the creamy banana pudding blend that makes every bite a trip down memory lane.

Crowd-Pleaser: Whether for potlucks or family gatherings, these treats are sure to impress everyone at the table and leave them wanting more.

Versatile Options: Feel free to mix it up! Add fresh bananas or swap in your favorite cereals for a personalized touch that suits your taste.

Quick Treat: With just a handful of ingredients and no baking required, you can whip these up in no time, making them a perfect last-minute dessert.

Storage Friendly: These treats hold up well in an airtight container, ready to satisfy those sweet cravings throughout the week. If you love simple, satisfying desserts, don’t miss out on making these Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats! You can always complement them with some Honey Butter Rice or serve them alongside a delicious Corn Chicken Rice.

Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats Ingredients

• Here’s everything you need to create these delightful treats!

For the Treats

Butter – 3 tbsp, provides richness and helps bind the components; consider using vegan butter for a dairy-free version.
Marshmallows – 1 (10 oz) bag, contributes sweetness and a chewy texture; opt for vegan marshmallows for a dairy-free treat.
Instant Banana Pudding Mix – 1 (3.4 oz) box, enhances the banana flavor and gives creaminess without cooking.
Rice Krispies Cereal – 6 cups, adds crunch and structure; for a gluten-free option, choose gluten-free Rice Krispies.
Crushed Nilla Wafers – Optional, provides additional crunch and flavor on top; can be substituted with crushed graham crackers if desired.

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

Step 1: Prepare the Pan
Begin by spraying a 9 x 13-inch pan with non-stick spray to ensure your Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats release easily once set. Set this pan aside while you prepare the delicious marshmallow mixture, as having it ready will streamline your process.

Step 2: Melt the Butter
In a large microwave-safe bowl, add 3 tablespoons of butter. Place the bowl in the microwave and heat for about 30 seconds or until the butter is fully melted. Keep an eye on it to prevent it from bubbling over. The rich, golden liquid should have a smooth consistency, ready to incorporate the marshmallows.

Step 3: Add the Marshmallows
Once the butter is melted, add the entire bag of marshmallows to the bowl. Stir them gently to coat the marshmallows evenly with the melted butter. This will help them melt uniformly and create a creamy base for your Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats.

Step 4: Microwave the Marshmallow Mixture
Return the bowl to the microwave and heat the mixture in 45-second intervals. Stir after each interval until the marshmallows are completely melted and smooth, which should take about 1.5 to 2 minutes total. Look for a glossy, stretchy consistency—this indicates it’s ready for the next step.

Step 5: Mix in Banana Pudding
Stir in the instant banana pudding mix into the melted marshmallow blend. Make sure to mix thoroughly until the pudding is fully integrated, creating a creamy and luscious banana-flavored mixture. This step adds both flavor and richness to your Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats.

Step 6: Incorporate the Rice Krispies
Now, it’s time to fold in 6 cups of Rice Krispies cereal. Gently mix until all the cereal is evenly coated with the marshmallow banana mixture. The texture should be cohesive but not overly sticky; you want that delightful crunch for your treats.

Step 7: Press the Mixture Into the Pan
Transfer the mixture into the prepared 9 x 13-inch pan. Using a greased spatula or your hands (consider using a Ziplock bag over your hand), firmly press the mixture down into the pan to create an even layer. Make sure to pack it well, as this ensures your Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats hold their shape when cut.

Step 8: Add Toppings if Desired
If you like, sprinkle crushed Nilla Wafers over the top for an extra layer of crunch and flavor. Gently press them into the mixture for better adherence. This optional step adds a lovely texture and visual appeal on your finished Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats.

Step 9: Let It Set
Allow the treats to cool at room temperature for at least 30 minutes. If you’re in a hurry, you can place them in the refrigerator for faster setting. The goal is to let the marshmallow mixture firm up properly, making it easy to slice into squares later.

Make Ahead Options

These Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats are ideal for meal prep, allowing you to save time during busy days! You can prepare the entire mixture up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the recipe steps until the mixture is pressed into the pan, then cover the pan tightly with plastic wrap. This will lock in freshness and keep them just as delicious. When you’re ready to serve, simply slice them into squares. If you want to add crushed Nilla Wafers on top, consider sprinkling them right before serving to maintain their crunch. Enjoy the convenience of having this sweet treat ready ahead of time for potlucks or family gatherings!

Expert Tips for Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats

Sticky Situation: Avoid over-melting the marshmallows as they can become too sticky. Heat in intervals and stir well for smoothness.
Perfect Press: Use a greased Ziplock bag over your hand to press the mixture into the pan easily. This prevents sticking and ensures a firm hold.
Flavor Boost: For an extra banana flavor, consider adding sliced fresh bananas to the mixture before pressing it into the pan.
Crunch Factor: Enhance the texture by topping the treats with crushed Nilla Wafers or graham crackers, giving them a delightful contrast with the chewy base.
Storage Tips: Store your Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, maintaining their deliciousness!

Storage Tips for Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats

Room Temperature: Store these treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week, keeping them fresh and delicious.

Refrigerator: For an extended shelf life, you can refrigerate the Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats for up to 2 weeks; just ensure they are well-sealed to prevent drying out.

Freezer: If you want to enjoy these treats later, freeze them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months; simply thaw in the fridge before enjoying.

Reheating: While these treats are best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, you can place them in the microwave for a few seconds to warm them slightly if you prefer a soft texture.

Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats Variations

Feel free to get creative with these irresistible treats and elevate your Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats experience!

Fresh Bananas: Add sliced fresh bananas for an extra burst of banana flavor and a delightful twist on texture.
Butterscotch Mix: Swap the instant banana pudding mix for butterscotch to create a rich and caramel-like flavor everyone will love.
Cocoa Krispies: Exchange Rice Krispies for Cocoa Krispies to enjoy a chocolaty version—an unexpected and fun take on a classic treat.
Nutty Delight: Incorporate chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for an added crunch and a nutty flavor that enhances every bite.
Peanut Butter Fusion: Stir in some creamy peanut butter before adding Rice Krispies for a deliciously nutty and creamy experience.

For a complete dessert experience, serve your treats alongside something like Honey Butter Rice or use them as a topping for a yummy Corn Chicken Rice.

Vegan Option: Keep it plant-based by using vegan butter and marshmallows, ensuring everyone can enjoy these tasty treats!
Sprinkles Galore: Add colorful sprinkles to the mixture or as a topping to delight kids and adults alike—because who doesn’t love a little pop of color?

What to Serve with Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats

Indulge in a delightful meal that pairs perfectly with these creamy, crunchy treats bringing back sweet childhood memories.

Fresh Fruit Salad: A medley of juicy fruits like strawberries, bananas, and blueberries adds a refreshing balance to the sweetness of the treats. The vibrant colors make for an enticing presentation.
Creamy Coleslaw: The cool, tangy crunch of coleslaw complements the sweetness of the Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats, creating a satisfying contrast that keeps things interesting. It’s a classic pairing for any picnic table.
Grilled Chicken Skewers: Marinated chicken skewers offer a savory, protein-packed counterpoint to the sugary treats. The smoky flavors from the grill elevate your meal and add a delightful element.
Chocolate Milkshake: An indulgent chocolate milkshake gives an extra creamy twist, enhancing the dessert experience while keeping with the nostalgia factor. Sip it alongside the treats for a fun, playful moment.
Angel Food Cake: Light and airy, a slice of angel food cake topped with whipped cream and sliced bananas provides a wonderful texture contrast and keeps your meal light and delightful.
Sparkling Lemonade: The bright, zesty flavor of sparkling lemonade refreshes the palate and offers a bubbly experience with these decadent treats. It’s a perfect choice for summer gatherings.
Peanut Butter Cookies: Pair these treats with classic peanut butter cookies for extra crunch and a delightful combination of flavors. It sweetens up the spread even more, creating a satisfying bite.
Vanilla Ice Cream: For an extra indulgence, scoop some vanilla ice cream next to your Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats. The creamy, cold texture pairs effortlessly, making it a dreamy dessert duo.

Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats Recipe FAQs

What type of marshmallows should I use?
You can use any standard marshmallows for this recipe; however, if you’re looking for a dairy-free option, I recommend using vegan marshmallows. They melt just as beautifully and won’t compromise the flavor of your Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats!

How should I store Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats?
For optimal freshness, store your treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If you want them to last longer, you can refrigerate them for up to 2 weeks—just make sure to keep them sealed tightly to prevent them from drying out.

Can I freeze Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats?
Absolutely! To freeze, place the treats in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in freezer-safe bags. These can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw the treats in the fridge overnight. They’ll be just as delicious as the day you made them!

What if my marshmallows become too sticky?
If your marshmallows become excessively sticky when melting, simply let them cool for a minute before stirring. Also, avoid overheating them; ideally, heat in 45-second intervals and stir in between. This will give you that perfect, stretchy consistency for your Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats.

Can these treats be enjoyed by those with allergies?
While these treats are vegetarian, keep in mind that they contain common allergens like dairy and gluten (from the Rice Krispies). If you’re making them for a gathering, consider using gluten-free Rice Krispies and vegan marshmallows for those with specific dietary restrictions.