If you can’t decide between banana pudding and Rice Krispies treats, why not have both? These Banana Pudding Rice Krispies are everything you love about the classic marshmallow squares, but with a Southern-inspired twist: layers of banana flavor, vanilla wafers, and creamy goodness.
They’re no-bake, easy to make, and perfect for parties, potlucks, or anytime you want a fun, crowd-pleasing dessert.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- No-bake & quick: Ready in under 30 minutes.
- Familiar flavors: Banana pudding + Rice Krispies nostalgia in one bite.
- Party-perfect: Easy to slice and serve.
- Customizable: Add extra bananas, wafers, or drizzle with caramel.
Ingredients
- 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
- 1 (10 oz) bag mini marshmallows
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 (3.4 oz) box instant banana pudding mix (dry)
- 1 cup crushed vanilla wafers
- 1 ½ cups white chocolate chips (optional, for drizzle or mix-in)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional garnish: banana chips, caramel drizzle, or whipped cream
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Pan
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line with parchment paper.
Step 2: Make the Base
- In a large pot, melt butter over low heat.
- Add marshmallows and stir until melted and smooth.
- Stir in dry banana pudding mix and vanilla extract until combined.
Step 3: Add the Crunch
- Stir in Rice Krispies cereal and crushed vanilla wafers.
- Mix quickly until everything is coated.
Step 4: Press & Set
- Press mixture into prepared pan using buttered hands or a spatula.
- Drizzle with melted white chocolate (optional) and top with extra vanilla wafers or banana chips.
- Let cool completely before slicing into squares.
Tips for Success
- Work quickly: Once cereal is coated, press into pan before it sets.
- Don’t pack too tightly: Keeps them soft and chewy instead of dense.
- Banana boost: Stir in freeze-dried banana pieces for extra flavor.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container up to 3 days.
Variations
- Banana Cream Pie Krispies: Add whipped cream topping and a drizzle of caramel.
- Chocolate Banana Krispies: Mix in chocolate chips or drizzle with Nutella.
- Peanut Butter Banana Krispies: Add ½ cup peanut butter to the marshmallow mix.
- Mini Parfaits: Cut into chunks and layer with whipped cream and fresh banana slices.
Why This Recipe Works
Banana pudding is beloved for its creamy vanilla-banana flavor and crunchy cookie layers. Rice Krispies treats are classic for their chewy, marshmallowy goodness. Combining them brings the best of both worlds into a fun, handheld dessert that feels familiar yet brand-new.
✨ Chewy, creamy, crunchy, and nostalgic — these Banana Pudding Rice Krispies are a no-bake treat guaranteed to disappear fast at any gathering.