If you’re craving something delightfully nostalgic with an irresistible twist, get ready to fall in love with Banana Pudding Rice Krispies. This playful dessert bar is a mashup of classic Rice Krispies treats and the beloved flavors of Southern banana pudding, layered with creamy banana pudding mix, crunchy vanilla wafers, and a hint of white chocolate. Every bite is soft, gooey, and full of dreamy banana flavor — it’s a treat that brings out the kid in everyone, while still feeling a little bit fancy. Perfect for parties, potlucks, or a spontaneous kitchen adventure, these no-bake bars are bound to become your new go-to sweet snack.

Banana Pudding Rice Krispies Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Banana Pudding Rice Krispies is all in the mix of simple, pantry-friendly ingredients. Each one is essential, bringing its own special touch to the flavor, texture, or color — and together, they create something truly unforgettable.

Rice Krispies cereal (6 cups): The crisp, airy foundation that gives these bars their signature snap and chew.
Instant banana cream pudding mix (3.4 oz, dry): Delivers that classic banana pudding flavor in every single bite — don’t skip it!
Mini marshmallows (10 oz bag): Melted into gooey goodness, they bind everything together and keep the bars soft.
Unsalted butter (1/4 cup): Adds richness and helps melt the marshmallows to silky perfection.
Vanilla extract (1/2 teaspoon): A dash of vanilla really rounds out the pudding flavors and deepens the dessert’s aroma.
Crushed vanilla wafer cookies (1 cup): For that unmistakable banana pudding crunch and buttery, nostalgic taste.
White chocolate chips (1/2 cup, optional): These bring a creamy sweetness and little pops of texture throughout the bars.
Sliced bananas or whipped topping (optional, for serving): A fresh, creamy garnish that adds a showstopping finish to your bars.

How to Make Banana Pudding Rice Krispies

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish

Start by greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish with either butter or nonstick spray. This step is quick but essential, as it ensures your Banana Pudding Rice Krispies bars will lift out easily without sticking or breaking. Set the dish aside within arm’s reach so it’s ready for the sticky mixture.

Step 2: Melt the Butter and Marshmallows

Place a large pot on the stove over medium-low heat and add your butter. Once the butter is melted and gently bubbling, pour in the mini marshmallows. Stir constantly with a spatula, making sure the marshmallows melt evenly into a smooth, glossy mixture. Patience is key — don’t rush, and you’ll avoid scorching.

Step 3: Add the Banana Pudding Mix and Vanilla

Remove the pot from the heat as soon as the marshmallows are melted. Immediately sprinkle in the dry banana cream pudding mix and vanilla extract. Stir briskly to fully dissolve the pudding powder and distribute the vanilla, infusing the gooey base with rich banana flavor and a touch of warmth.

Step 4: Fold in Cereals and Cookies

Quickly add the Rice Krispies cereal and crushed vanilla wafers to the pot. Use a sturdy spatula to fold everything together, making sure each puffed grain and crumb is coated. The mixture will be sticky and thick — work swiftly, as it firms up as it cools.

Step 5: Stir in White Chocolate Chips (Optional)

If you’re going for extra decadence, toss in the white chocolate chips while the mixture is still warm but not piping hot. This way, the chips will hold their shape and give you creamy bursts in every bite. Stir just enough to distribute them evenly.

Step 6: Press and Cool

Spoon the sticky mixture into your prepared baking dish. Use a buttered spatula or a piece of parchment paper to firmly press the mixture into an even layer, reaching all the corners. Let the bars cool completely at room temperature — patience pays off here! Once set, slice into squares and get ready for the oohs and ahhs.

How to Serve Banana Pudding Rice Krispies

Garnishes

A little garnish goes a long way in making your Banana Pudding Rice Krispies look and taste incredible. For a true banana pudding experience, add fresh banana slices right before serving or swirl on a dollop of whipped topping for a creamy finish. For extra flair, try a sprinkle of crushed vanilla wafers or a drizzle of banana-flavored syrup.

Side Dishes

These bars are absolutely delicious on their own, but if you’re serving them for a party or dessert table, pair them with a light fruit salad or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creamy, fruity notes balance out the sweetness and make for a well-rounded treat.

Creative Ways to Present

For your next gathering, cut the Banana Pudding Rice Krispies into mini squares and stack them on a tiered cake stand for a playful, eye-catching display. Or serve them in cupcake liners with a little swirl of whipped topping and a banana chip on top for an extra-cute, individual touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Banana Pudding Rice Krispies are best stored at room temperature in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh and chewy for up to 3 days; any longer and you might notice the texture becoming a bit hard. Try to avoid refrigerating, as the cold can dry out the bars and make them lose their delightful gooeyness.

Freezing

While these bars are at their best freshly made, you can freeze them for up to one month if needed. Wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw at room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor.

Reheating

If your bars have firmed up a bit too much, you can soften them by microwaving individual pieces for 5–7 seconds. Don’t overdo it — just enough to revive that gooey, marshmallowy magic.

FAQs

Can I use regular marshmallows instead of mini marshmallows?

Absolutely! Just chop or tear large marshmallows into smaller pieces so they melt quickly and evenly. You’ll need about 5 cups to match the amount in a 10-ounce mini marshmallow bag.

Is there a substitute for banana cream pudding mix?

If you can’t find banana cream pudding mix, you can use vanilla pudding mix and add a teaspoon of banana extract. It won’t be quite the same, but it’ll still capture the spirit of Banana Pudding Rice Krispies.

Can I make Banana Pudding Rice Krispies gluten-free?

Definitely! Use a certified gluten-free puffed rice cereal and swap in gluten-free vanilla wafer cookies. Just double-check the pudding mix as well to ensure it’s gluten-free.

How do I keep the bars from sticking to my hands or the spatula?

Lightly butter your hands or spatula, or use a piece of parchment paper to press the mixture into the pan. This keeps everything smooth and mess-free as you work.

Can I add mix-ins like nuts or sprinkles?

Go for it! Chopped pecans, walnuts, or colorful sprinkles can be folded in with the cereal for extra crunch and flair. Just keep the classic banana pudding flavors front and center.

Final Thoughts

There’s something just so joyful about sharing a pan of Banana Pudding Rice Krispies — they’re easy, fun, and packed with the creamy, dreamy flavors everyone loves. If you’re looking for a no-fuss treat that delights kids and grown-ups alike, this recipe is the one to try. Give it a go and watch your friends and family fall head over heels for these sweet, nostalgic bars!

Banana Pudding Rice Krispies Recipe

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4.9 from 30 reviews

Author: Emma
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 12 bars 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Banana Pudding Rice Krispies is a delightful no-bake dessert combining the nostalgic crunch of Rice Krispies with creamy banana pudding flavor. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for quick snacks or sweet treats, featuring mini marshmallows, crushed vanilla wafers, and optional white chocolate chips for an extra touch of indulgence. Garnish with fresh banana slices or whipped topping to enhance the fruity flavor and create a crowd-pleasing dessert bar.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
1 package (3.4 oz) instant banana cream pudding mix (dry)
1 bag (10 oz) mini marshmallows
1/4 cup unsalted butter
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup crushed vanilla wafer cookies
1/2 cup white chocolate chips (optional)

For Garnish (Optional)

Sliced bananas
Whipped topping

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Instructions

Prepare the Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray to prevent sticking and make removal easier.
Melt Butter and Marshmallows: In a large pot over medium-low heat, melt the 1/4 cup unsalted butter. Add the 10 oz mini marshmallows and stir constantly until fully melted and smooth, creating the gooey base.
Add Pudding Mix and Vanilla: Remove the pot from heat and stir in the dry banana cream pudding mix and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract thoroughly, ensuring even flavor distribution.
Combine with Dry Ingredients: Quickly fold in the 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal and 1 cup crushed vanilla wafer cookies until all pieces are evenly coated with the marshmallow mixture.
Incorporate White Chocolate Chips (Optional): If using, gently stir in 1/2 cup white chocolate chips while the mixture is warm but not hot enough to melt the chips completely, preserving their texture.
Press into Baking Dish: Transfer the mixture to the greased baking dish and press firmly using a buttered spatula or parchment paper to create an even layer.
Cool and Set: Let the mixture cool completely at room temperature to set properly before cutting into squares.
Garnish and Serve: Just before serving, garnish with sliced bananas or a dollop of whipped topping for an extra burst of flavor and visual appeal.

Notes

For extra banana flavor, add banana chips or drizzle banana-flavored syrup on top before the mixture sets.
Store at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain the ideal texture; refrigeration may harden the bars.
Use parchment paper in the baking dish for easier removal and cleaner cuts.
White chocolate chips are optional but add a delightful contrast in taste and texture.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: No-Bake
Cuisine: American