Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats

Who doesn’t love a delicious dessert that combines the creaminess of banana pudding with the satisfying crunch of Rice Krispies? These Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats are a delightful twist on classic flavors, making them perfect for any gathering or just a sweet treat at home. With just a little bit of time in your kitchen, you’ll create a dessert that dazzles just as much as it delights. Let’s get cooking.

This recipe holds a special place in my heart. Growing up, banana pudding was a staple at family gatherings. When I discovered how to combine that creamy texture into Rice Krispie treats, it felt like I unlocked a whole new level of dessert. It’s an easy way to bring nostalgia and joy to the table, and trust me, these treats are sure to be a hit. Plus, they are incredibly simple to make.

Ingredients

• 4 cups Rice Krispies cereal
• 1 cup mini marshmallows
• 4 tablespoons butter (unsalted)
• 1 package (3.4 ounces) instant banana pudding mix
• 1 cup cold milk
• 1 cup sliced bananas (fresh, ripe)
• 1 1/2 cups whipped topping (such as Cool Whip)

Instructions

Step 1:

In a large pot, melt the butter over low heat. Add the mini marshmallows and stir until melted and smooth. This is where the magic begins, just look at that gooey goodness.

Step 2:

Remove the pot from heat and quickly mix in the Rice Krispies, coating them well. You want to make sure every last crumb is perfectly covered.

Step 3:

In a separate bowl, whisk together the instant banana pudding mix and cold milk until smooth. Allow it to sit for about 5 minutes until it thickens nicely.

Step 4:

Stir the whipped topping into the banana pudding mixture until well combined. This is where you get that creamy, dreamy texture that pairs beautifully with the crunch.

Step 5:

Gently fold the sliced bananas into the banana pudding mixture.

Step 6:

Now for the fun part. In a greased 9×13-inch pan, press half of the Rice Krispies mixture down evenly. Pour the banana pudding mixture on top and spread it out. Lastly, top with the remaining Rice Krispies mixture, pressing down lightly.

Step 7:

Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow everything to set properly. Patience will yield delicious results.

Nutritional Information

Each serving of these Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats clocks in at about 200 calories, with 10 grams of fat, 25 grams of carbohydrates, and 1 gram of protein. They’re sweet, satisfying, and perfect for keeping your sweet tooth happy.

Healthier Alternatives

If you want to take a lighter approach, you can opt for sugar-free pudding mix and a light whipped topping. Additionally, using whole grain Rice Krispies can add some nutritional benefits without sacrificing that beloved crunch.

Serving Suggestions

These treats are delightful on their own, but you can elevate them even further. Serve with a drizzle of caramel sauce or a sprinkle of crushed nuts for added flavor and texture. Pairing them with a side of fresh fruit can also add a refreshing contrast.

Common Mistakes

One common mistake when making these treats is not letting them cool completely before cutting. If you dive in too soon, they might fall apart. Also, be careful not to press the mixture down too hard; you want them to have that light, airy crunch.

Chef’s Notes

• To make these Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats ahead of time, you can prepare them a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator.
• If you want a different flavor twist, try adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the pudding mixture or even using chocolate pudding for a chocolate banana treat.
• For an extra pop of flavor, sprinkle some crushed graham crackers on top before serving to mimic that classic banana pudding texture.

FAQs

• Q1: Can I use regular Rice Krispies instead of the chocolate version?
  A1: Absolutely; Regular Rice Krispies work perfectly for this recipe.
• Q2: How long do these treats last?
  A2: They will last in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days. Just make sure they are covered well.
• Q3: Can I freeze these Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats?
  A3: It’s best not to freeze them since the banana may not thaw well, but you can prep the crispy base and pudding separately for freezing.

These Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats are sure to bring a smile to anyone’s face. With the perfect balance of creamy and crunchy, you’ll want to whip them up again and again. If you love the classic flavors of banana pudding, check out my Southern Banana Cobbler Recipe for a twist on the Southern classic. Happy cooking, my friends!

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