Banana Pudding Rice Krispies

Banana Pudding Rice Krispies are a dreamy mashup of classic homemade squares and that nostalgic banana cream flavor. Perfect for kids and adults alike, it is a dessert that never sticks around long in my kitchen. Each layer brings back memories of after-school treats at my grandma’s house, but with a playful twist the whole family now loves.

The first time I made these for our neighborhood get-together, one batch disappeared almost instantly. My dad laughed and said he had not seen people scramble for dessert like that in years.

Ingredients

• Butter: gives the base its rich and gooey texture buy a European-style butter for extra flavor
• Mini marshmallows: keep the squares chewy and sweet make sure they are fresh for best melting
• Rice Krispies cereal: the classic crunchy layer go for the original brand for the best snap
• Instant banana pudding mix: brings the signature flavor choose a brand with real banana powder if possible
• Milk: turns pudding mix into luscious custard whole milk makes it extra creamy
• Ripe bananas: add fresh natural sweetness and a little bite pick bananas with plenty of brown spots
• Whipped cream: makes the top layer airy use freshly whipped cream for best results
• Honey: gives a floral sweet finish drizzle local honey for more depth

Instructions

Melt the Butter and Marshmallows:

In a large saucepan slowly melt the butter over low heat Add mini marshmallows and gently stir for about four minutes until every marshmallow is melted and the mixture looks sticky and glossy

Mix in the Cereal:

Take the pan off the heat and immediately fold in all the Rice Krispies Use a sturdy spatula stir until all the cereal is evenly coated and glossy The mixture will be hot but do not rush this step fully coating means no dry bits

Press Into the Pan:

Prepare a 9x13 inch pan with a touch of butter on the bottom Scrape the marshmallow cereal mixture into the pan Lightly press it flat with a buttered spatula or wax paper You want a firm even layer but do not compress too tightly or it will get hard Let this cool and set on the counter for about 30 minutes

Prepare the Banana Pudding:

In a medium bowl whisk the instant banana pudding mix with the cold milk Take your time and whisk until thick no lumps left Let it stand a few minutes in the fridge to set further

Top with Pudding Layer:

Spread the thick pudding gently over the cooled Rice Krispies base Use an offset spatula for an even layer getting right to the edges Chill for 10 minutes to let the layers settle

Add Bananas:

Slice ripe bananas into coin shapes Arrange them snugly in a single layer over the pudding pressing each slice in lightly so the bananas almost nest into the pudding

Add Whipped Cream:

Generously spoon and spread whipped cream over the bananas You want a fluffy thick topping that covers every banana slice getting into the corners for a dreamy finish

Drizzle with Honey:

Finish just before serving by drizzling honey across the surface in thin streams This brings every element together and makes for an irresistible top

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There is nothing like the contrast of the cold creamy pudding and that crunch beneath it I am always reminded of my aunt bringing a tray of these to family reunions everyone fighting for the corner pieces where the marshmallow is extra gooey

Storage Tips

Store the squares tightly covered in the fridge for up to three days for freshest taste The bananas may start to brown after a day so if making ahead assemble the base and pudding layer then add bananas and cream just before serving For longer storage freeze the base separately then finish with toppings after thawing

Ingredient Substitutions

If you prefer a different flavor skip banana pudding and use instant vanilla or coconut pudding instead Gluten free cereal works well and vegan marshmallows hold up nicely I sometimes swap out honey for maple syrup or skip the drizzled sweetener for a lighter option

Serving Suggestions

Cut into small bars for grab and go treats or serve big squares on dessert plates with extra banana coins on the side These are a hit on picnic spreads and also make a fun alternative to birthday cake for banana lovers

Cultural Context

Banana pudding is a Southern classic and this recipe brings that comfort to modern treats like Rice Krispies bars My grandmother taught me how to layer pudding with cookies but this cereal twist happened one summer when cookies were gone and I got inventive

Seasonal Adaptations

Use fresh berries like strawberries in place of half the bananas in summer Top with chopped nuts like pecans for a fall flavor Swap whipped cream for vanilla ice cream on hot days

Success Stories

Several friends have emailed me after making these for their own families surprised by how nostalgic and yet fresh the squares felt People of all ages have a soft spot for anything pudding layered and these always disappear from the table in minutes

Freezer Meal Conversion

Wrap the base layer tightly in plastic and freeze for up to one month When you are ready to serve just thaw and layer with fresh pudding new banana slices and whipped cream You cannot freeze the completed dessert but prepping base ahead is a weekday lifesaver

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Keep the finished dessert chilled until you are ready to serve to maintain clean layers I still get requests for these at family events and cannot help but sneak a square before anyone else notices

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use homemade pudding instead of instant?

Yes, homemade banana pudding can be used for a richer, more personalized flavor, just let it cool first.

→ How do I keep the bananas from browning?

Lightly coat banana slices with lemon juice before layering to slow the browning process.

→ Can these treats be made ahead of time?

They can be prepared up to one day in advance. Store refrigerated and add honey drizzle just before serving.

→ Is it possible to use different cereal brands?

Any crisped rice cereal works well, but classic Rice Krispies yield the best texture.

→ Can I use cool whip instead of whipped cream?

Yes, Cool Whip or any non-dairy whipped topping can substitute for whipped cream.