Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats offer a delicious twist on the classic Rice Krispies treat by combining the sweet flavors of banana pudding with the crunch of Rice Krispies. This treat is perfect for those who love a creamy, nostalgic dessert with a bit of crunch. Whether you’re looking for an easy dessert for a family gathering or a fun treat for a party, this recipe will be a hit.

FULL RECIPE

Ingredients:

• 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
• 1 package (3.4 oz) instant banana pudding mix
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
• 10 oz marshmallows
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1/2 cup mini marshmallows (optional for extra texture)

Directions:

1. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the marshmallows and stir continuously until melted and smooth.
3. Stir in the instant banana pudding mix and milk until fully combined.
4. Add the Rice Krispies cereal to the saucepan, stirring to coat evenly with the pudding mixture.
5. If using mini marshmallows, fold them into the mixture now.
6. Press the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking pan, using a spatula or wax paper to press it down firmly.
7. Allow the treats to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cutting into squares.

Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 200
• Total Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Cholesterol: 15mg
• Sodium: 100mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 31g
• Dietary Fiber: 0g
• Sugars: 18g
• Protein: 1g

The History of Rice Krispie Treats

Rice Krispie treats were first introduced in the 1930s, when the Kellogg Company and Marshmallow Fluff joined forces to create a sweet, crispy dessert using Rice Krispies cereal and marshmallows. Originally marketed as a simple, easy-to-make snack, it quickly became a family favorite, particularly because of its simplicity and versatility. Over the years, various versions of this treat have emerged, from chocolate to peanut butter, but the classic version with just Rice Krispies and marshmallows remains a staple. Today, the idea of mixing Rice Krispies with different flavors and ingredients has taken off, leading to new creative variations like Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats.

Why Banana Pudding Works in Rice Krispie Treats

Banana pudding is a beloved Southern dessert known for its creamy texture and rich flavor. The addition of banana pudding to Rice Krispie treats brings a new layer of sweetness and indulgence, transforming the traditional treat into something extra special. The creamy pudding mix helps bind the cereal together, making the texture softer than the traditional Rice Krispie treat. Plus, the banana flavor adds a nostalgic element that resonates with many dessert lovers. The sweetness of the marshmallows pairs beautifully with the banana pudding, resulting in a dessert that feels comforting yet fresh.

The Role of Cereal in Rice Krispie Treats

The main ingredient in Rice Krispie treats is, of course, Rice Krispies cereal. The crispy, light texture of the cereal is what gives these treats their signature crunch. While the cereal itself doesn’t have much flavor, it acts as the perfect base for soaking up the sweet, gooey marshmallow and banana pudding mixture. The balance of crunch and softness makes Rice Krispie treats incredibly satisfying to eat, and the addition of banana pudding only enhances the overall flavor and texture. It’s important to use fresh Rice Krispies for the best texture, as stale cereal may cause the treats to be less crispy.

How to Make Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats Creamier

Banana pudding Rice Krispie treats can be made even creamier with a few simple tweaks to the recipe. One way to increase creaminess is by using more butter in the mixture. This will give the treats a richer, more buttery flavor while also contributing to a smoother texture. Additionally, using a bit more milk or adding a splash of heavy cream can help make the banana pudding flavor more pronounced and provide a richer mouthfeel. Another trick is to fold in whipped cream or cream cheese for added creaminess, but this will alter the texture slightly, making it less firm.

How to Make the Treats Vegan or Dairy-Free

For those with dietary restrictions, it’s possible to make Banana Pudding Rice Krispie treats vegan or dairy-free. To make the treats dairy-free, substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative, such as coconut oil or vegan butter. For the marshmallows, look for dairy-free versions available at most health food stores or online. The instant pudding mix typically contains dairy, so you may need to find a dairy-free alternative or make a homemade version using non-dairy milk. These substitutions allow everyone to enjoy this delicious treat without worrying about their dietary preferences.

The Texture of Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats

One of the most appealing aspects of Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats is their texture. The crunchiness of the Rice Krispies provides a satisfying contrast to the creamy, smooth banana pudding filling. The texture is soft enough to melt in your mouth but firm enough to hold its shape when cut into squares. The addition of the banana pudding mixture softens the Rice Krispies slightly, giving the treats a chewier texture compared to traditional Rice Krispie treats. This balance of soft and crunchy is what makes the dessert so irresistible.

How to Make the Treats More Festive

For a more festive touch, you can decorate Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats to match specific holidays or celebrations. For Halloween, try topping the treats with orange and black sprinkles or candy eyes. For Christmas, you could add crushed peppermint candy or drizzle white chocolate over the top. You can also cut the treats into fun shapes, such as hearts or stars, to make them more festive. Adding food coloring to the pudding mixture or marshmallows can also be an easy way to make the treats look more vibrant for special occasions.

The Health Benefits of Bananas

Bananas are a nutritious fruit that provides a variety of health benefits. They are an excellent source of potassium, which is essential for maintaining healthy blood pressure and supporting heart health. Bananas also contain vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants, making them a great addition to a balanced diet. While the Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats themselves may not be considered a health food, the banana flavor adds a hint of natural sweetness and a nutritional boost. Including bananas in dessert recipes is a fun way to enjoy their health benefits while indulging in something sweet.

The Popularity of Rice Krispie Treats in Modern Desserts

Rice Krispie treats have evolved from a simple childhood snack to a trendy dessert that appears in bakeries and cafes around the world. Chefs and home bakers alike have been experimenting with new flavors, shapes, and ingredients to create unique Rice Krispie treat variations. Some of these include adding candy bars, flavored syrups, or even ice cream to the treats. The popularity of Rice Krispie treats continues to grow because of their nostalgic charm and endless potential for customization. Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats are a perfect example of how this classic dessert can be reinvented with a new twist.

Conclusion

Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats are a delightful and innovative twist on a beloved classic. With their creamy, banana-infused flavor and crunchy Rice Krispies, they offer a satisfying dessert that appeals to people of all ages. Whether you’re looking for a fun treat for a party or a simple dessert to enjoy at home, these Rice Krispie treats are sure to impress. By combining the comforting flavors of banana pudding with the familiar crunch of Rice Krispies, this recipe brings a new level of deliciousness to a time-honored treat.