Banana Pudding Rice Krispies Recipe
If you’re craving a nostalgic treat with a playful twist, the Banana Pudding Rice Krispies Recipe is exactly what you need to brighten your day. This dessert marries the crunchy, buttery goodness of classic Rice Krispies treats with the creamy, dreamy flavors of banana pudding. It’s a vibrant, crowd-pleasing dish that is as fun to make as it is delightful to eat. Whether you’re looking for a party dessert or a comforting snack, this layered masterpiece offers a perfect balance of textures and flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Banana Pudding Rice Krispies Recipe plays a crucial role, transforming simple pantry staples into a sensational dessert. From the rich butter that adds that perfect chewiness, to the fresh bananas that bring natural sweetness and freshness, each component works together flawlessly.
- 3 tbsp butter: Adds richness and helps bind the marshmallows to the cereal for that ideal chewy texture.
- 300g (10 oz) mini marshmallows: Melts into a gooey coating that turns the cereal into a delightful treat.
- 180g (6 cups) Rice Krispies cereal: Provides the iconic crisp crunch that balances the creamy layers.
- 1 package instant banana pudding mix: Creates the luscious, banana-flavored layer that is the heart of the dessert.
- 480ml (2 cups) milk: Whisked into the pudding mix to achieve a smooth, creamy consistency.
- 2 ripe bananas, sliced: Offer fresh banana flavor and a soft, natural texture.
- 240ml (1 cup) whipped cream: Adds a fluffy, airy finish that lightens the dessert beautifully.
- Honey, for drizzling: Introduces a subtle floral sweetness that enhances all the layers just before serving.
How to Make Banana Pudding Rice Krispies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Rice Krispies Layer
Start by melting the butter gently over low heat so it becomes perfectly smooth without burning. Next, stir in the mini marshmallows until they melt completely, creating that irresistible sticky base. Then fold in the Rice Krispies cereal, ensuring every crisp is coated in marshmallow goodness. Press this mixture firmly into a greased 9×13-inch pan and let it cool fully. This forms a sturdy yet tender foundation for your pudding layers.
Step 2: Whisk the Banana Pudding Layer
While the base cools, whisk the instant banana pudding mix with cold milk in a medium bowl. Whisk until it thickens beautifully to a velvety smooth texture. This step is crucial to get that silky pudding experience—employ a gentle hand and whisk consistently for the best results. The fresh banana flavor in the pudding brings a wonderful contrast to the crunchy Rice Krispies.
Step 3: Assemble the Dessert
Once your Rice Krispies layer is cool and firm, it’s time to build those luscious layers. Spread the banana pudding mixture evenly across the crunchy base for a creamy layer that melts in your mouth. Then artfully arrange the sliced bananas across the pudding, adding bursts of natural sweetness and freshness with every bite. Top everything with a thick layer of whipped cream to create a dreamy, cloud-like finish.
Step 4: Finish with a Honey Drizzle
Just before serving, drizzle honey gently over the top. This not only adds a gorgeous glisten but also infuses a subtle floral sweetness that ties all the flavors together perfectly. It’s an easy yet impactful final touch that elevates this dish from great to unforgettable.
How to Serve Banana Pudding Rice Krispies Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle some crushed nuts, like walnuts or pecans, on top for added crunch and a hint of earthiness. You can also grate a bit of lemon zest over the whipped cream to introduce a zesty brightness that complements the banana flavors wonderfully.
Side Dishes
This dessert pairs wonderfully with a simple cup of freshly brewed coffee or iced tea to balance its sweetness. If serving at a party, consider light fruit salads or citrus sorbets alongside to maintain a refreshing palate.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this Banana Pudding Rice Krispies Recipe in individual clear jars or parfait glasses to showcase the beautiful layers visually. You can even turn this into bite-sized portions by pressing the base into mini muffin tins and layering the toppings individually for convenient serving at gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep leftovers covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container refrigerated for up to 3 days. This helps maintain the creaminess of the pudding and whipped cream while preserving the delicate crispness of the Rice Krispies base as much as possible.
Freezing
Freezing is not recommended for this dessert since the whipped cream and pudding tend to separate and lose their texture once thawed. For best results, enjoy your Banana Pudding Rice Krispies Recipe fresh or refrigerated.
Reheating
Since this is a cold dessert, reheating is unnecessary. If you prefer it slightly softer, let it sit at room temperature for 10 to 15 minutes before serving to bring out the richest flavors and soften the base slightly.
FAQs
Can I use regular pudding instead of instant banana pudding mix?
You can substitute with homemade banana pudding, but the instant mix is designed to thicken quickly and provide consistent flavor that pairs perfectly with this recipe.
What can I use if I don’t have Rice Krispies cereal?
Any puffed rice cereal works as an alternative, but Rice Krispies have the right crispness and size to balance with the creamy layers beautifully.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
Yes! Use vegan butter, marshmallows, and whipped cream alternatives, and a plant-based milk to create a delicious vegan version of this Banana Pudding Rice Krispies Recipe.
How long does the Banana Pudding Rice Krispies Recipe take to set?
Allow the Rice Krispies layer to cool fully before layering the pudding. After assembly, it’s best enjoyed immediately or after chilling an hour for the flavors to meld nicely.
Can I add other fruits besides bananas?
Absolutely! Sliced strawberries or blueberries make great additions or alternatives, adding their own unique sweetness and color.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend enough giving this Banana Pudding Rice Krispies Recipe a try—it’s an absolute joy to make and share. The combination of crunchy, creamy, and fruity flavors is genuinely irresistible. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or just treating yourself, it promises to bring smiles all around. So go on, dive in and enjoy this playful take on a classic favorite!
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Banana Pudding Rice Krispies Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This delightful Banana Pudding Rice Krispies dessert combines the crispy, buttery texture of classic Rice Krispies treats with creamy banana pudding, fresh banana slices, and a light whipped cream topping. Drizzled with honey for added sweetness, it is a no-bake treat that’s perfect for gatherings or a fun family dessert that comes together in just 20 minutes.
Ingredients
Rice Krispies Layer
- 3 tbsp butter
- 300g (10 oz) mini marshmallows
- 180g (6 cups) Rice Krispies cereal
Banana Pudding Layer
- 1 package instant banana pudding mix
- 480ml (2 cups) milk
- 2 ripe bananas, sliced
- 240ml (1 cup) whipped cream
Finishing Touch
- Honey, for drizzling
Instructions
- Prepare the Rice Krispies Layer: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over low heat, ensuring it doesn’t burn.
- Melt Marshmallows: Add the mini marshmallows to the melted butter and stir continuously until they are completely melted and smooth. Remove from heat immediately to prevent burning.
- Mix in Cereal: Quickly stir in the Rice Krispies cereal, folding until all the cereal is fully coated with the marshmallow mixture.
- Press into Pan: Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking pan, pressing it evenly and firmly to create the base layer. Allow it to cool completely and set.
- Prepare Banana Pudding: In a medium bowl, whisk together the instant banana pudding mix and the cold milk until the mixture thickens and becomes smooth, indicating it’s ready.
- Assemble Pudding Layer: Spread the prepared banana pudding uniformly over the cooled Rice Krispies base layer, creating a smooth second layer.
- Add Banana Slices: Arrange the sliced ripe bananas evenly over the pudding layer, covering the surface.
- Top with Whipped Cream: Spread a thick layer of whipped cream over the banana slices, ensuring full coverage.
- Drizzle Honey: Just before serving, drizzle honey over the top to add a touch of natural sweetness and a glossy finish.
Notes
- Ensure the Rice Krispies mixture is fully cooled before adding the pudding layer to avoid melting.
- For extra flavor, you can add a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the pudding mix.
- Use fresh, ripe bananas for the best taste and texture.
- This dessert is best served the same day but can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours.
- Drizzle honey just before serving to prevent the whipped cream from becoming soggy.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American