Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats

This nostalgic banana pudding twist on classic Rice Krispie treats combines the comfort of creamy banana pudding with the satisfying crunch of cereal and vanilla wafers. The result is an irresistible dessert that takes me back to childhood summers while adding a sophisticated flavor upgrade that adults will appreciate just as much.

I first created these treats for my niece's birthday party as an alternative to traditional banana pudding. They were such a hit that the adults devoured them faster than the kids, and now they've become my signature dessert for family gatherings.

• 8 tablespoons butter provides richness and helps bind everything together
• 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal creates that classic crispy texture we all love
• 6 ½ cups mini marshmallows the smaller size melts more evenly than large marshmallows
• 1 cup crushed vanilla wafers adds authentic banana pudding flavor and light crunch
• 1/4 cup prepared banana pudding delivers the signature banana flavor without making treats soggy
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract enhances all the flavors and adds depth
• Marshmallow fluff white chocolate and extra crushed vanilla wafers create an irresistible topping

How To Make Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats

Prepare the pudding

Follow package directions to make instant banana pudding. Allow it to set completely until thick and firm about 5 minutes. This ensures proper texture in your treats.

Melt the base

In a large saucepan gently melt the butter over medium heat until just liquified. Watch carefully to prevent browning as this can affect the final flavor.

Create the marshmallow mixture

Add 5 cups of mini marshmallows to the melted butter stirring constantly with a silicone spatula. Maintain medium-low heat and continue stirring until completely smooth and no lumps remain about 3-4 minutes.

Add flavor elements

Remove from heat and immediately stir in vanilla extract and prepared banana pudding. Work quickly to incorporate the pudding completely before the marshmallow mixture begins to set. The mixture should have a uniform pale yellow color.

Incorporate dry ingredients

Fold in the Rice Krispies cereal remaining 1 ½ cups of mini marshmallows and crushed vanilla wafers. Use gentle folding motions to ensure even coating without crushing the cereal. The reserved marshmallows will remain partially intact creating pockets of gooey goodness.

Form the treats

Transfer mixture to a 9x13 parchment-lined baking dish. Press down gently with slightly dampened hands or a piece of parchment paper to create an even layer. Avoid pressing too firmly which would make dense treats.

Add toppings

While still warm spread a thin layer of marshmallow fluff over the top then sprinkle generously with crushed vanilla wafers. Melt white chocolate in 20-second microwave intervals stirring between each until smooth. Drizzle artfully over the top.

Cool and serve

Allow treats to cool completely at room temperature about 1 hour before cutting into squares. For clean cuts use a sharp knife lightly coated with cooking spray.

The banana pudding is truly the star ingredient here. I discovered its magic when my daughter accidentally spilled some into our regular Rice Krispie mixture years ago. That happy accident led to this recipe that has since made appearances at school bake sales family reunions and even my best friend's wedding dessert table.

Storage Tips

These treats stay fresh in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. Avoid refrigerating as this will make them hard and lose their delightful chewy texture. While technically freezable for up to a month I find the texture changes significantly upon thawing so I recommend enjoying them fresh.

Variations to Try

Feel free to experiment with this versatile recipe. For a tropical twist add 1/2 cup toasted coconut flakes to the mixture. Chocolate lovers can substitute cocoa-flavored Rice Krispies and add mini chocolate chips to the mixture while still warm. For a more intense banana flavor fold in 1/4 cup freeze-dried banana pieces with the cereal. During fall months I sometimes add a pinch of cinnamon and nutmeg which pairs wonderfully with the banana flavor.

Serving Suggestions

These treats make an excellent standalone dessert but can be elevated for special occasions. Try serving slightly warmed squares with a scoop of vanilla ice cream drizzled with caramel sauce. For an elegant presentation cut into small triangles and serve on a platter with fresh banana slices and a dusting of powdered sugar. They also pair beautifully with coffee or a cold glass of milk for an afternoon treat.

The History Behind The Dish

This creative mashup brings together two beloved American classics. Traditional banana pudding dates back to the late 19th century becoming especially popular in Southern cuisine. Rice Krispie treats were invented in 1939 by Malitta Jensen and Mildred Day at Kellogg Company as a fundraiser for Camp Fire Girls. This fusion dessert represents the best of American ingenuity in the kitchen creating something new and exciting from familiar favorites that spans generations of dessert lovers.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use homemade banana pudding instead of instant mix?

Yes! Homemade banana pudding works wonderfully in this recipe. Just make sure it's set to a thick consistency before mixing it with the other ingredients. Homemade pudding may add more authentic banana flavor, but might make the treats slightly softer than when using instant pudding.

→ How long do these treats stay fresh?

These Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats stay fresh for 2-3 days when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to 5 days, though they might become slightly firmer. Let them come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

→ Can I freeze these treats?

Yes, these treats freeze well for up to 2 months. Cut them into individual squares, wrap each one in plastic wrap, and store in a freezer-safe container. Thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving.

→ What can I substitute for vanilla wafers?

If you don't have vanilla wafers, graham crackers or shortbread cookies make excellent substitutes. They provide a similar sweet, crunchy element that complements the banana pudding flavor. You could also use Golden Oreos with the cream filling removed for a different twist.

→ How do I prevent the treats from becoming too hard?

To keep your treats soft and chewy, be careful not to overheat the marshmallows when melting them. Also, avoid pressing the mixture too firmly into the pan—just gently spread it to maintain that delicate, airy texture. Finally, make sure to store them properly in an airtight container to prevent them from drying out.

→ Can I add real bananas to the recipe?

While you can add fresh banana slices as a topping just before serving, incorporating fresh bananas into the mixture isn't recommended as they'll oxidize and affect the texture. If you want more banana flavor, you could try adding 1/4 teaspoon of banana extract to the marshmallow mixture.