There’s something about banana pudding that just feels like home. Maybe it’s the creamy vanilla layers, maybe it’s the buttery crunch of Nilla Wafers—or maybe it’s how every bite tastes like Sunday afternoons at Grandma’s kitchen table. Now imagine that nostalgic flavor tucked inside soft, chewy Rice Krispie treats. That’s exactly what these Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats bring to the table—a playful mix of childhood cereal bars and timeless banana pudding in one dreamy bite.
It’s comfort food, dressed up with a little Southern charm.
Why You’ll Love These Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats
These aren’t your everyday cereal squares. They take the same marshmallow magic you already love and stir in banana pudding flavor for a sweet twist that’s creamy, fruity, and light all at once. Here’s why you’ll want to make them on repeat:
- Quick and no-bake: Just 10 minutes from start to finish—no oven required.
- Perfect texture: Soft, chewy, and melt-in-your-mouth good, with just the right snap from the cereal.
- Nostalgic flavor: The banana pudding mix transforms the marshmallow base into a pudding-like dream.
- Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for potlucks, bake sales, holidays, or a quick family dessert.
- Endless variations: Add crushed Nilla Wafers, white chocolate drizzle, or even banana chips for extra flavor.
The first time I made these, my kitchen smelled like warm banana cream pie, and my kids couldn’t wait to grab one right off the pan. It’s the kind of easy, happy recipe that feels like sunshine in bar form.
Ingredients Breakdown
Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up a batch of Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats:
- Butter (3 tbsp, melted): Helps the marshmallows melt smoothly and adds a rich, buttery flavor. You can use salted or unsalted butter—salted gives a nice contrast to the sweetness.
- Marshmallows (10 oz bag): These are the heart of every Rice Krispie treat. Mini marshmallows melt more evenly, but large ones work just as well.
- Instant Banana Pudding Mix (3.4 oz box): The secret flavor base! Use instant pudding (not cook-and-serve). You can use Jell-O brand or any equivalent.
- Rice Krispies Cereal (6 cups): The classic base. Any crisp rice cereal works here.
- Crushed Nilla Wafers (optional): Adds a little crunch and nods to the banana pudding tradition.
Substitution Ideas:
- Swap vanilla pudding mix for banana pudding if you prefer a lighter flavor.
- Try gluten-free crisp rice cereal for a gluten-free version.
- Use vegan marshmallows and plant-based butter to make these dairy-free.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep Your Pan
Spray a 9×13-inch pan with non-stick spray or line it with parchment paper. This step makes it easy to lift the treats out later.
2. Melt the Butter and Marshmallows
In a large microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter. Add the marshmallows and stir to coat. Microwave for 45 seconds, stir, then heat for another 45 seconds. Stir again until everything is completely melted and smooth.
3. Add the Banana Pudding Mix
Stir in the instant banana pudding mix while the marshmallow mixture is still warm. It’ll turn creamy and golden, with the sweet scent of banana pudding filling your kitchen.
4. Fold in the Rice Krispies
Pour in 6 cups of cereal and stir until every piece is coated evenly. Work quickly—the mixture thickens as it cools.
5. Press and Set
Spread the mixture into your prepared pan. Use a greased spatula or your hands (lightly buttered) to press the mixture firmly and evenly.
6. Add the Nilla Wafer Topping (Optional)
Sprinkle crushed Nilla Wafers on top and gently press them in. They’ll add a lovely crunch and that signature pudding flavor.
7. Cool and Slice
Let the treats cool completely before cutting them into squares. Store in an airtight container at room temperature.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 12 squares
Calories: ~170 kcal each
Tips, Variations, and Storage
Tips for Perfect Texture
- Don’t overheat the marshmallows—overheating makes the treats hard.
- Use fresh marshmallows for best melting results.
- Press gently into the pan; packing too tightly makes them dense.
Fun Variations
- Banana Cream Pie Style: Drizzle with white chocolate and top with banana chips.
- Holiday Edition: Add yellow sprinkles or pastel mini marshmallows for Easter or spring gatherings.
- Extra Gooey: Add ½ cup extra mini marshmallows at the end for chewy pops of texture.
- Vanilla Twist: Use vanilla pudding instead of banana and mix in freeze-dried banana slices.
Storage Tips
Keep the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate up to a week (just let them come to room temp before serving). Avoid freezing—marshmallows lose their texture when thawed.
Serving Ideas
Serve these treats as:
- A lunchbox surprise for kids
- A quick dessert for BBQs or potlucks
- A nostalgic snack for cozy movie nights
- A fun base for Banana Split Rice Krispie Bars (just top with whipped cream and a cherry!)
Pair them with a glass of cold milk or a hot latte—you’ll thank yourself later.
FAQs About Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats
Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats – FAQs
1. Can I use regular cooked pudding instead of instant pudding mix?
2. Can I make these ahead of time?
3. How can I make these extra banana-flavored?
4. Can I freeze Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats?
A Sweet Note from My Kitchen
Desserts like these remind me why I love simple recipes that spark joy. With just a handful of pantry staples, you can turn an ordinary day into something special. These Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats are that kind of dessert—no stress, no bake, just pure comfort.
For more cozy and creative dessert ideas, explore these recipes from My Flavor Recipes:
No-Bake Blue Christmas Truffles
Christmas Crack
Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Donut Holes
Vanilla Christmas Cake Roll
Magic Lemon Cobbler
No-Bake Coconut Pecan Praline Cookies
Pumpkin Earthquake Cake
…and many more on myflavorrecipes.com.
Join our dessert community on Pinterest for visual inspiration and on Facebook for behind-the-scenes baking stories.
Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons butter melted; salted or unsalted
- 10 oz marshmallows mini or regular
- 1 3.4 oz box instant banana pudding mix do not use cook-and-serve
- 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
- crushed Nilla Wafers optional topping
Instructions
- Spray a 9×13-inch pan with non-stick spray or line with parchment paper for easy removal.
- In a large microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter. Add the marshmallows and stir to coat.
- Microwave the marshmallow mixture for 45 seconds, stir, then microwave another 45 seconds. Stir until smooth.
- Stir in the banana pudding mix while the marshmallow mixture is still warm until fully incorporated.
- Fold in the Rice Krispies cereal and stir until evenly coated. Work quickly before it sets.
- Spread the mixture into the prepared pan and press gently with a greased spatula or buttered hands.
- Sprinkle crushed Nilla Wafers on top if using, pressing them lightly into the surface.
- Allow to cool completely before slicing into squares. Store in an airtight container at room temperature.