Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is quick, no-bake, and crowd-pleasing. It combines creamy banana flavor with crisp texture, stores well, and is easy to customize for different occasions.
Banana Pudding Rice Krispies: A Creamy, Crunchy No-Bake Delight
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 12 squares
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A no-bake dessert that combines gooey Rice Krispies treats with creamy banana pudding flavor and hints of vanilla, creating a nostalgic and crowd-pleasing sweet treat.
Ingredients
- 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
- 1 box (3.4 oz) instant banana pudding mix
- 10 oz mini marshmallows
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup crushed vanilla wafers (optional)
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter over low heat.
- Add marshmallows and stir until completely melted and smooth.
- Remove from heat and quickly stir in the banana pudding mix, vanilla extract, and salt.
- Fold in the Rice Krispies cereal until evenly coated.
- Gently mix in crushed vanilla wafers, if using.
- Press the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
- Allow to cool and set for at least 30 minutes before cutting into squares.
Notes
- Work quickly once marshmallows are melted to prevent stiffening.
- Do not refrigerate or treats may become too firm.
- Add white chocolate chips for extra sweetness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Rice Krispies cereal provides the signature crunch and structure of the treats. It balances the soft marshmallow mixture perfectly.
Mini marshmallows create the sticky, sweet base that holds everything together. They melt smoothly and evenly.
Unsalted butter adds richness and prevents the treats from becoming overly sweet. It also improves texture.
Instant banana pudding mix is the flavor centerpiece. It delivers banana flavor and a subtle creaminess throughout the bars.
Vanilla extract enhances the banana notes and adds warmth to the overall flavor profile.
White chocolate chips contribute extra creaminess and a mild sweetness that complements banana well.
Crushed vanilla wafers add texture and reinforce the classic banana pudding flavor combination.
Directions
Begin by greasing a square baking dish and setting it aside. In a large saucepan over low heat, melt the butter gently. Add the mini marshmallows and stir continuously until fully melted and smooth. Remove the pan from heat and immediately stir in the banana pudding mix and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined. Add the white chocolate chips and stir quickly so they melt into the warm mixture. Fold in the Rice Krispies cereal, stirring gently until evenly coated. Finally, mix in the crushed vanilla wafers. Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish and press it down evenly using a spatula or lightly greased hands. Allow the treats to cool and set at room temperature before cutting into squares.
Essential Equipment
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.
knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields approximately 12 to 16 squares. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, with an additional 30 minutes for setting. Total time is roughly 45 minutes.
Storage/reheating
Store Banana Pudding Rice Krispies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. Refrigeration is not necessary and may affect texture. Reheating is not recommended.
Variations and Customizations
Extra banana flavor
Add banana extract for a more pronounced banana taste.
Chocolate drizzle version
Drizzle melted chocolate over the top once set.
Layered dessert bars
Press half the mixture into the pan, add a pudding layer, then top with remaining cereal mixture.
Nutty crunch option
Incorporate chopped pecans or walnuts for added texture.
Marshmallow-forward style
Fold in additional mini marshmallows at the end for extra softness.
FAQs
Can I use regular marshmallows?
Yes, but they should be cut into smaller pieces for even melting.
Is the banana flavor strong?
It is mild and balanced, not overpowering.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, it holds its texture well for a few days.
Do I need to refrigerate the bars?
No, room temperature storage is best.
Can I freeze these treats?
Freezing is not recommended due to texture changes.
What can I use instead of vanilla wafers?
Shortbread cookies or graham crackers work well.
Are these treats very sweet?
They are sweet but balanced by the cereal and butter.
Can I use flavored cereal?
Plain cereal works best to avoid overpowering the banana flavor.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes, it is very popular with children.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, use a larger pan and mix carefully.
Conclusion
Banana Pudding Rice Krispies is a simple yet memorable dessert that combines creamy banana flavor with classic cereal crunch. Easy to prepare and universally appealing, it is a reliable no-bake recipe that brings comfort and creativity to any dessert table.
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