There's something magical about the combination of banana pudding and Rice Krispies treats. The nostalgic flavor of creamy banana pudding, paired with the crispy, chewy texture of a classic Rice Krispies treat, creates an irresistible dessert that will have everyone coming back for more.

I first came across this idea when craving two of my favorite childhood sweets at the same time. Instead of making both separately, I decided to fuse them into one gooey, banana-infused delight. The result? A sweet, crunchy, and marshmallow-filled treat that tastes just like banana pudding, but with an extra satisfying bite.

Why You'll Love This Banana Pudding Rice Krispies Recipe

If you love easy, no-bake desserts, this Banana Pudding Rice Krispies recipe will become your new favorite. It’s quick to make, full of nostalgic flavors, and perfect for any occasion.

First off, this treat requires just a handful of simple ingredients. With no baking involved, it's an excellent choice for when you need a last-minute dessert that still impresses.

The flavors are absolutely delightful. Imagine the rich taste of banana pudding combined with the classic crunch of Rice Krispies, finished with a hint of vanilla wafer goodness.

This recipe is also incredibly versatile. Whether you're making it for a party, packing it in lunchboxes, or simply indulging in a sweet treat at home, it fits any occasion perfectly.

Plus, it stores well, so you can enjoy these treats over several days—if they last that long!

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Banana Pudding Rice Krispies recipe lies in the perfect blend of classic ingredients with a fun, banana-flavored twist.

Banana pudding mix is the key to infusing these treats with that signature banana flavor. Using instant pudding mix allows for an easy, no-fuss way to add a creamy banana taste to every bite.

Marshmallows give the treats their signature chewy texture. Be sure to use fresh mini marshmallows, as they melt more evenly and create a smoother consistency.

Rice Krispies cereal provides the signature crunch. Opt for a fresh, crispy batch to ensure the perfect contrast between the gooey and crunchy textures.

Vanilla wafers add an extra nod to traditional banana pudding. Crushed wafers sprinkled throughout the mix and on top create a delightful contrast and a little extra crunch.

You'll also need butter for richness and a touch of vanilla extract to enhance the overall flavor. A pinch of salt helps balance the sweetness, bringing out the depth of the banana pudding taste.

How To Make This Banana Pudding Rice Krispies Recipe

Creating these Banana Pudding Rice Krispies treats is as simple as making classic Rice Krispies treats but with a delicious banana twist.

Start by melting butter in a large pot over medium-low heat. Once melted, add your marshmallows, stirring continuously until they are completely melted and smooth. This step ensures that the mixture stays soft and pliable.

Next, stir in the banana pudding mix and a dash of vanilla extract. Mix well until everything is fully incorporated, ensuring that every bite is packed with banana flavor.

Remove the pot from the heat and gently fold in the Rice Krispies cereal, followed by the crushed vanilla wafers. Work quickly to coat all the cereal evenly while maintaining its crunch.

Transfer the mixture into a greased 9x13-inch pan. Use a buttered spatula or lightly greased hands to gently press the mixture into an even layer—be careful not to pack it too tightly, or your treats may turn out too firm.

Let the treats cool for about 30 minutes before slicing into squares. For an extra banana pudding touch, sprinkle additional crushed vanilla wafers on top before serving.

Storage Options

These Banana Pudding Rice Krispies treats are best enjoyed fresh, but they also store well for later snacking.

To keep them soft and chewy, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you need them to last a little longer, refrigerate them for up to a week, but allow them to come to room temperature before eating for the best texture.

For longer storage, you can freeze individual squares by wrapping them in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. When ready to enjoy, let them thaw at room temperature for about an hour.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is super adaptable, allowing you to customize it based on your preferences and what you have on hand.

If you prefer a milder banana flavor, reduce the amount of banana pudding mix or mix it with vanilla pudding for a more subtle taste.

Want to add a little extra texture? Try folding in some mini white chocolate chips or drizzling melted white chocolate over the finished treats for an extra sweet touch.

For a fun twist, swap out vanilla wafers for Golden Oreos or even graham crackers for a different but equally delicious crunch.

If you need a dairy-free version, use vegan butter and dairy-free marshmallows, and check that your pudding mix is free of dairy ingredients.

No matter how you make them, these Banana Pudding Rice Krispies treats are guaranteed to be a hit. Have fun experimenting and enjoy every bite!