If you’re on the hunt for a playful yet comforting treat that brings together childhood nostalgia and fresh, fruity flavors, this Banana Pudding Rice Krispies Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine the crispy, buttery goodness of classic Rice Krispies squares layered with luscious banana pudding, fresh banana slices, and a fluffy whipped cream crown, all finished off with a drizzle of golden honey. It’s a dreamy, no-fuss dessert that’s as fun to make as it is to devour, perfect for sharing with friends or indulging on your own when a sweet craving strikes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Banana Pudding Rice Krispies Recipe lies in its simplicity and the harmony of textures and flavors each ingredient brings. Every element is essential—whether it’s lending creaminess, crunch, or a touch of natural sweetness.
- 3 tbsp butter: Adds richness and helps melt the marshmallows for that perfect chewy base.
- 300g (10 oz) mini marshmallows: Gives the Rice Krispies their classic gooey texture and sweetness.
- 180g (6 cups) Rice Krispies cereal: Provides the crispy, airy crunch that makes this layered dessert so addictive.
- 1 package instant banana pudding mix: Brings in that unmistakable banana cream flavor without the extra fuss.
- 480ml (2 cups) milk: Needed to whisk the pudding mix into a luscious, creamy consistency.
- 2 ripe bananas, sliced: Adds fresh fruity brightness and natural sweetness atop the pudding.
- 240ml (1 cup) whipped cream: Creates a light, fluffy topping that balances the dessert beautifully.
- Honey, for drizzling: A final touch of natural sweetness that complements bananas perfectly.
How to Make Banana Pudding Rice Krispies Recipe
Step 1: Create the Rice Krispies Base
Begin by melting the butter over low heat in a large saucepan, setting the stage for that irresistibly soft Rice Krispies crust. Once melted, stir in the mini marshmallows until they’re fully melted and smooth—this step is key for binding the cereal evenly.
Step 2: Mix in the Cereal
Off the heat, fold in the Rice Krispies cereal carefully, ensuring every bit gets coated in that glossy marshmallow mixture. Press this blend firmly into a greased 9×13-inch baking pan for an even layer. Let it cool completely; this creates a sturdy base without losing any crunch.
Step 3: Whip Up the Banana Pudding
While the Rice Krispies layer cools, whisk the instant banana pudding mix with cold milk in a separate bowl until it thickens to a silky, smooth texture. This pudding layer will bring luscious banana flavor and creaminess to counterbalance the crispy base.
Step 4: Assemble the Layers
Once cooled, spread the banana pudding evenly over the Rice Krispies crust, gently smoothing it out. Lay the sliced bananas on top in a single layer—these fresh slices lend an extra boost of natural sweetness and authentic banana taste.
Step 5: Add the Final Touches
Top the banana slices with a generous layer of whipped cream. This adds a dreamy lightness to the dessert’s texture and flavor. Just before serving, drizzle honey across the whipped cream to introduce a touch of floral sweetness that sings beautifully with the bananas.
How to Serve Banana Pudding Rice Krispies Recipe
Garnishes
To make your Banana Pudding Rice Krispies Recipe truly pop, consider garnishing with a few extra banana slices or a sprinkle of crushed Rice Krispies for added crunch. A tiny dusting of cinnamon or a few chopped nuts can also add a delightful twist.
Side Dishes
This dessert shines all on its own but pairing it with a refreshing glass of cold milk or a light fruit salad can make your serving experience feel even more wholesome and complete. The creamy, sweet dessert balances beautifully with fresh citrusy sides.
Creative Ways to Present
Take this Banana Pudding Rice Krispies Recipe to the next level by serving it in individual clear glasses or mason jars. Layer the components for a beautiful visual treat, perfect for parties or cozy get-togethers. You could even cut it into bite-sized bars for easy snacking.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store leftover Banana Pudding Rice Krispies Recipe in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep it chilled to maintain the pudding’s creamy texture and the Rice Krispies’ crispness.
Freezing
Freezing is not recommended for this dessert since the pudding layer may separate and the texture of the Rice Krispies can become soggy once thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated.
Reheating
This dessert is meant to be enjoyed cold or at room temperature, so reheating isn’t necessary. If you prefer, allow it to sit at room temperature for a few minutes outside the fridge before serving for a softer bite.
FAQs
Can I use homemade banana pudding instead of instant mix?
Absolutely! Homemade banana pudding will add a personal touch and can be even more flavorful. Just be sure it’s thick enough to hold its shape over the Rice Krispies layer.
What can I substitute for Rice Krispies cereal?
If Rice Krispies aren’t on hand, you can try puffed rice or even cornflakes. Keep in mind these alternatives may slightly alter the texture and crunch.
Can I make this dessert vegan?
With some swaps—like using vegan butter, marshmallows, dairy-free milk, and coconut whipped cream—you can enjoy a vegan version. The instant pudding mix would also need to be dairy-free.
How ripe should the bananas be?
Choose bananas that are ripe but still firm to hold their shape in the dessert and provide sweetness without turning mushy.
Is it possible to double the recipe?
Yes! This Banana Pudding Rice Krispies Recipe is easy to scale up for bigger gatherings. Just use a larger pan or make two batches for best results.
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you give this Banana Pudding Rice Krispies Recipe a try—it’s one of those feel-good desserts that brings smiles and satisfies that sweet tooth with layers of fun texture and dreamy flavor. Whether for a family get-together or a quiet night treat, it’s simple, quick, and irresistibly delicious. Enjoy every bite!
Print
Banana Pudding Rice Krispies Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This delightful Banana Pudding Rice Krispies dessert combines the nostalgic crunch of Rice Krispies treats with a creamy banana pudding layer and fresh bananas, topped with whipped cream and a drizzle of honey. Perfect for a quick, no-bake treat that’s both fun and flavorful.
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
- Honey, for drizzling
Instructions
- Prepare the Rice Krispies Layer: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over low heat until completely melted and smooth.
- Incorporate Marshmallows: Add the mini marshmallows to the melted butter and stir continuously until they are fully melted and combined with the butter.
- Add the Rice Krispies: Mix the Rice Krispies cereal into the melted marshmallow mixture, stirring well to coat all the cereal evenly.
- Press into Pan: Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking pan and press it down evenly to form the base layer. Allow it to cool completely to set.
- Prepare Banana Pudding: In a medium bowl, whisk the instant banana pudding mix with the cold milk until the mixture thickens and becomes smooth.
- Assemble Dessert: Spread the prepared banana pudding evenly over the cooled Rice Krispies base layer.
- Add Banana Slices: Arrange the sliced bananas evenly on top of the pudding layer.
- Top with Whipped Cream: Spread a thick layer of whipped cream over the banana slices to add creaminess.
- Finish with Honey: Just before serving, drizzle honey over the top to add a touch of sweetness and gloss.
Notes
- Use ripe bananas for the best flavor and sweetness.
- Make sure the Rice Krispies base is completely cooled before adding the banana pudding layer to prevent melting.
- For a firmer dessert, refrigerate for at least an hour before serving.
- Optionally, add crushed nuts or chocolate chips to the Rice Krispies mix for extra texture.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days to maintain freshness.
