here’s a detailed recipe for Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats that combines the classic flavors of banana pudding with the crispy, gooey goodness of Rice Krispie treats:
Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats
Ingredients:
- 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 package (10 oz) mini marshmallows (or about 5 cups)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup instant banana pudding mix (not prepared, just the dry mix)
- 1 cup sliced banana chips (optional, for added crunch and banana flavor)
- 1/2 cup crushed vanilla wafers (optional, for extra texture and flavor)
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional, such as pecans or walnuts)
Instructions:
- Prepare Your Pan: Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. This will help prevent the Rice Krispie treats from sticking.
- Melt the Butter: In a large saucepan over medium-low heat, melt the butter completely. Make sure to keep an eye on it so it doesn’t brown or burn.
- Add Marshmallows: Once the butter is melted, add the mini marshmallows to the pan. Stir continuously until the marshmallows are completely melted and smooth. This usually takes a few minutes. Be patient and keep stirring to ensure the mixture is even and not overheated.
- Mix in Pudding Mix: Remove the saucepan from the heat and quickly stir in the instant banana pudding mix. The pudding mix will add a lovely banana flavor to the treats. Make sure it’s well incorporated and mixed in thoroughly.
- Combine with Cereal: Gradually add the Rice Krispies cereal to the marshmallow mixture. Stir gently but thoroughly to coat all the cereal evenly with the marshmallow mixture. It’s easiest to do this in batches to ensure everything is well combined.
- Add Optional Ingredients: If using, gently fold in the sliced banana chips, crushed vanilla wafers, and chopped nuts. These additions will give the treats extra flavor and texture, mimicking the banana pudding experience.
- Press into Pan: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Use a spatula or the back of a spoon (lightly buttered to prevent sticking) to press the mixture evenly and firmly into the pan. This step is crucial for getting well-formed and cohesive treats.
- Cool and Set: Allow the treats to cool completely in the pan at room temperature. This will help them set and become firm. It usually takes about 1-2 hours. If you’re in a hurry, you can place the pan in the refrigerator to speed up the cooling process.
- Cut and Serve: Once the treats are set and firm, cut them into squares or bars. Enjoy your Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats!
Tips:
- Storage: These treats can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them for a longer period, you can freeze them for up to three months. Just make sure they are wrapped well to prevent freezer burn.
- Variations: Feel free to experiment with different flavors of instant pudding mix, such as vanilla or butterscotch, to create your own unique twist on this recipe.
- For a Healthier Twist: You can use whole grain or gluten-free Rice Krispies and reduce the amount of marshmallows slightly to make a lighter version.
This recipe combines the nostalgic comfort of Rice Krispie treats with the creamy, sweet flavor of banana pudding. It’s perfect for a fun treat or a potluck, and it’s sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike!
