When classic banana pudding meets the chewy nostalgia of Rice Krispie treats, you get a dessert mashup that’s both comforting and inventive. Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats are soft, gooey, full of marshmallow sweetness and rich banana flavor—topped with the crunch of vanilla wafers and a luscious vanilla glaze drizzle. It’s like eating childhood memories with a Southern twist.
This no-bake dessert combines the best of both worlds: the ease and texture of Rice Krispie treats and the creamy, fruity taste of banana pudding. It’s a fun, crowd-pleasing option that’s perfect for everything from birthdays to potlucks, tailgates to holiday dessert tables.
Why This Recipe Works
If you’re tired of the same old cereal bars, banana pudding Rice Krispie treats are here to change the game. Here’s why this hybrid dessert stands out:
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No baking required – Great for hot days or last-minute events.
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Takes less than 30 minutes to prepare from start to finish.
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Ultra flavorful thanks to instant banana pudding mix and vanilla wafers.
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Simple ingredients with familiar pantry staples.
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Fun for all ages – Kids love the marshmallowy base and adults appreciate the nostalgic banana pudding flavor.
It’s a great treat for casual gatherings but unique enough to be featured at elegant events with just a little plating polish.
Ingredients Breakdown
This version uses ingredients designed for a rich banana flavor and perfect chewy consistency, inspired by the original but with some enhancements.
Rice Krispie Base
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4½ cups Rice Krispies cereal
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24 vanilla wafer cookies (14 crushed, 10 whole for topping)
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4 tablespoons unsalted butter
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10 ounces mini marshmallows (about 5½ cups)
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½ of a 3.4 oz box instant banana pudding mix (about 1.7 oz)
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½ teaspoon salt (optional but recommended)
Vanilla Glaze (Optional but recommended)
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â…“ cup powdered sugar
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1 tablespoon milk or heavy cream
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½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional extras: white chocolate chips, banana chips, or a swirl of peanut butter for flair.
Tools You’ll Need
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8×8-inch baking dish
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Medium saucepan
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Mixing bowls
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Whisk or spoon
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Parchment paper (optional)
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Measuring cups & spoons
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Rubber spatula
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pan
Grease an 8×8-inch square baking dish with nonstick spray or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later. This will keep your treats from sticking and help you lift them out neatly for slicing.
Step 2: Crush the Vanilla Wafers
Take 14 vanilla wafers and crush them into small pieces—don’t pulverize them into crumbs; you want little pockets of cookie crunch throughout your bars. Set the remaining 10 whole wafers aside for topping.
Pro Tip: Crushing the cookies slightly unevenly gives you textural contrast—some bigger bites, some finer crumb integration.
Step 3: Melt the Butter and Marshmallows
In a large saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over low heat. Add 10 oz mini marshmallows, stirring frequently.
When the marshmallows are about 75% melted, sprinkle in ½ packet of instant banana pudding mix. Stir continuously until the mixture is smooth and fully combined. Remove from heat.
Don’t let the marshmallows brown—low heat is key to keeping them smooth and sticky rather than hard or gritty.
Step 4: Mix in Cereal and Crushed Cookies
In a large bowl, combine:
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The melted marshmallow-banana mixture
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4½ cups Rice Krispies cereal
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Crushed vanilla wafers
Fold everything together gently with a rubber spatula until well mixed. The heat from the marshmallow mixture will bind everything together.
Work quickly while the marshmallow is warm to ensure even coating.
Step 5: Press the Mixture into the Pan
Transfer the mixture into your prepared pan. Use a spatula or lightly oiled hands to press it down gently into an even layer. Don’t press too hard, or your bars will be dense.
Before it sets, take the remaining 10 vanilla wafers and press them into the top for added texture and visual appeal.
Let the mixture cool at room temperature for 15–20 minutes.
Step 6: Make the Glaze (Optional but Excellent)
In a small bowl, whisk together:
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â…“ cup powdered sugar
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1 tablespoon milk or cream
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½ teaspoon vanilla extract
If the glaze is too thick to drizzle, add a few drops of milk at a time until you reach the right consistency.
Drizzle over the cooled bars using a spoon or piping bag.
Allow glaze to set at room temperature for another 20–30 minutes before slicing.
Step 7: Slice and Serve
Use a sharp knife to cut into 12–16 bars depending on your desired size. Serve as-is or dress up with whipped cream, banana slices, or melted white chocolate.
Make It Your Own: Variations
1. Full Banana Flavor
Use the full packet of banana pudding mix for a more intense banana flavor. You’ll want to balance this with a slightly larger batch of cereal bars (try 6 cups Rice Krispies and a 9×13-inch pan).
2. Banana Cream Pie Style
Add a thin layer of banana pudding (prepared with milk) over the cooled bars before glazing. Chill before slicing. It’s like a banana cream Rice Krispie pie bar!
3. Peanut Butter Banana Bars
Stir in ¼ cup peanut butter to the marshmallow mix for an Elvis-inspired twist.
4. White Chocolate Banana Treats
Mix in ½ cup white chocolate chips and top with a white chocolate drizzle.
5. Banana Split Bars
Top the bars with banana chips, maraschino cherries, and drizzle with melted chocolate and caramel sauce.
Texture Tips
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Want chewy, soft bars? Use fresh mini marshmallows, avoid high heat, and don’t compact the mixture too much.
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Want a crispy finish? Let them air dry uncovered for 30–45 minutes after setting. This allows the outside to firm slightly while the inside stays soft.
Storage & Shelf Life
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At room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Keep away from heat or humidity.
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In the fridge: Bars will stay firmer longer—good if you added fresh pudding or fruit layers.
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Freezer-friendly: Wrap bars individually in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container or freezer bag. Best used within 1 month.
To serve frozen bars, let them thaw at room temp for 20–30 minutes.
Serving Suggestions
These bars are super versatile and can be dressed up or down:
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Cut into bite-size cubes and serve on a platter with toothpicks for parties.
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Pair with banana milkshakes, vanilla lattes, or iced tea.
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Turn into an ice cream sandwich by slicing them in half and adding vanilla or banana ice cream between.
Nutritional Information (Estimate per Bar)
| Nutrient | Approx. Value |
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| Calories | 210–250 kcal |
| Carbs | 35g |
| Sugar | 20g |
| Fat | 7g |
| Protein | 1g |
Based on 1 of 16 servings. May vary with toppings and optional mix-ins.
FAQ
Can I use regular marshmallows instead of mini?
Yes—use about 40 large marshmallows (equivalent to 10 oz). Cut them up slightly for easier melting.
What kind of pudding mix should I use?
Use instant banana pudding mix, not cook-and-serve. Jell-O brand or store-brand both work great.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! These are excellent for make-ahead desserts. Just store tightly sealed at room temperature.
Can I use different cereal?
Yes—Cheerios, Fruity Pebbles, or cornflakes work in a pinch, though they’ll change the texture and sweetness.
Final Thoughts
Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats are everything you didn’t know you needed in a dessert: comforting, nostalgic, crispy, chewy, creamy, and customizable. They combine the ease of classic cereal treats with the rich Southern charm of banana pudding—making them ideal for both casual family snacks and festive get-togethers.
Whether you’re a fan of no-bake recipes, love banana-flavored desserts, or just want something new to bring to your next event, this treat deserves a place in your recipe rotation.