Description
This Banana Pudding Rice Krispies Treats recipe combines the classic crunch of Rice Krispies with the creamy sweetness of banana pudding, making it a delightful treat for any occasion. Easy to prepare and perfect for parties or picnics, these bars are sure to please both kids and adults alike!
Ingredients
Scale
- 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 1 cup unsalted butter (2 sticks)
- 1 package (3.4 oz) instant banana pudding mix
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
- 1 cup sliced bananas (fresh or dried, depending on preference)
- 1 cup whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
- 1/2 cup crushed vanilla wafers (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- In a large saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, light corn syrup, and unsalted butter. Place the saucepan over medium heat.
- Stir the mixture continuously until the butter has melted and the sugar has dissolved completely. This should take about 3-5 minutes. Be careful not to let it boil.
- Once the mixture is smooth and well combined, remove it from the heat. Stir in the instant banana pudding mix, vanilla extract, and salt until fully incorporated. The mixture will thicken slightly as you stir.
- In a large mixing bowl, pour the Rice Krispies cereal. Make sure to use a bowl that is big enough to accommodate all the ingredients.
- Pour the warm pudding mixture over the Rice Krispies. Using a spatula or wooden spoon, gently fold the mixture into the cereal until all the Rice Krispies are evenly coated. Be careful not to crush the cereal; you want to keep that delightful crunch!
- Add the mini marshmallows and sliced bananas to the mixture. Gently fold them in until they are evenly distributed throughout the Rice Krispies mixture.
- Prepare a 9×13 inch baking dish by greasing it lightly with butter or non-stick cooking spray. This will help prevent the treats from sticking.
- Transfer the Rice Krispies mixture into the prepared baking dish. Using a spatula or your hands (dampened with a little water to prevent sticking), press the mixture down firmly and evenly into the dish. Make sure to pack it tightly so that the treats hold together once set.
- Allow the mixture to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes. If you’re in a hurry, you can place it in the refrigerator to speed up the cooling process.
- Once the Rice Krispies treats have cooled and set, it’s time to add the whipped topping. In a separate bowl, take the whipped topping and spread it evenly over the top of the Rice Krispies treats.
- If you like, you can sprinkle crushed vanilla wafers on top of the whipped topping for an extra crunch and a touch of flavor. This step is optional but highly recommended for that classic banana pudding vibe!
- Using a sharp knife, cut the Rice Krispies treats into squares or rectangles, depending on your preference. I usually aim for about 2-inch squares, but you can make them larger or smaller as you like.
- Serve the treats immediately, or store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you’re storing them, I recommend placing a piece of parchment paper between layers to keep them from sticking together.
- For an extra touch, you can garnish each serving with a slice of fresh banana or a drizzle of chocolate sauce before serving.
Notes
- Feel free to substitute the sliced bananas with other fruits like strawberries or blueberries for a different flavor profile.
- If you like, you can sprinkle crushed vanilla wafers on top of the whipped topping for an extra crunch and a touch of flavor. This step is optional but highly recommended for that classic banana pudding vibe!
- For an extra touch, you can garnish each serving with a slice of fresh banana or a drizzle of chocolate sauce before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes