Ingredients
Scale
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 package (10 oz) mini marshmallows
- 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
- 1 package (3.4 oz) instant banana pudding mix
- 2 cups cold milk
- 1 cup sliced bananas
- Whipped cream for topping (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Rice Krispie Base
- In a large pot, melt the butter over low heat.
- Add the mini marshmallows to the melted butter and stir continuously until they’re fully melted and smooth.
- Remove the pot from heat, then add the Rice Krispies cereal. Stir until all the cereal is evenly coated with the marshmallow mixture.
- Pour the coated Rice Krispies into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to press it firmly into an even layer. Let it cool completely before adding the next layers.
Step 2: Make the Banana Pudding
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the instant banana pudding mix with 2 cups of cold milk.
- Continue whisking until the pudding mixture is smooth and thickened, typically taking around 2-3 minutes.
Step 3: Assemble the Layers
- Once the Rice Krispie base has cooled, arrange the sliced bananas evenly over the surface.
- Pour the prepared banana pudding over the sliced bananas and spread it into an even layer, covering the entire base.
Step 4: Chill
- Place the assembled dessert in the refrigerator and chill for at least 1 hour or until the pudding layer is fully set. This will make slicing and serving easier and give the flavors time to meld.
Step 5: Serve
- Remove the chilled dessert from the refrigerator and slice into squares.
- For an extra touch, add a dollop of whipped cream on top of each square before serving.
Variations
- Banana-Free Option: If you’re not a fan of bananas but love the idea of fruity Rice Krispie treats, you can replace the banana pudding with vanilla pudding and use strawberries or other fresh fruits.
- Chocolate Banana Twist: Drizzle melted chocolate over the Rice Krispie base before adding the banana pudding for a delicious chocolate-banana combination.
- Crunchy Topping: Sprinkle crushed vanilla wafers on top of the pudding layer for added texture and a nod to traditional banana pudding.
- Peanut Butter Banana: Mix a tablespoon or two of peanut butter into the melted marshmallows for a flavor twist that pairs perfectly with bananas.
Notes
- Be sure the Rice Krispie base is completely cool before layering the banana pudding to prevent the pudding from becoming too runny.
- Slice bananas just before assembling to prevent browning. If you need to slice them earlier, toss them lightly in lemon juice to keep them fresh.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve these treats chilled for a refreshing dessert.
- Garnish with whipped cream or a sprinkle of crushed vanilla wafers.
- For a party platter, arrange squares on a large serving tray with extra banana slices and a dusting of cocoa powder for a professional touch.
Tips
- Pressing the Rice Krispies: Lightly grease your spatula or hands with butter to prevent sticking when pressing down the Rice Krispie mixture.
- Quick Cooling: Place the Rice Krispie base in the refrigerator for a few minutes to speed up the cooling process.
- Firm Pudding: Let the pudding thicken slightly longer than usual for a firmer layer, making the treats easier to cut and serve.
- Avoid Soggy Bananas: Arrange banana slices in a single layer and avoid adding too many, as this can make the dessert soggy over time.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
Nutrition
- Calories: 240 kcal
- Sodium: 180 mg
- Protein: 2 grams