If you’re craving something sweet, nostalgic, and no-bake, Banana Pudding Rice Krispies might just be your new favorite treat.
This dessert isn’t your average Rice Krispies bar. It’s a rich, creamy, crunchy mash-up of all the best parts of banana pudding and classic Rice Krispies treats. You’ll get vanilla wafers, marshmallows, Cool Whip, and real bananas layered between crispy cereal and creamy pudding. Sounds good? Let’s get to it.
Why You’ll Love Banana Pudding Rice Krispies
Here’s what makes this dessert a must-try:
- No baking needed
- Ready in under an hour
- Perfect for parties or potlucks
- Loaded with banana pudding flavor
- Sweet, creamy, and crunchy in every bite
Banana Pudding Rice Krispies
Ingredients You’ll Need
Make sure you’ve got everything on this list before starting:
For the Pudding Layer:
- 1 box (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix (or banana if preferred)
- 2 cups cold milk
- 1 container (8 oz) Cool Whip
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup crushed vanilla wafers
- 1–2 ripe bananas (sliced)
For the Rice Krispies Layer:
- 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
- 1 bag (10 oz) mini marshmallows
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste
For Topping (Optional but Recommended):
- Extra crushed vanilla wafers
- More sliced bananas
- White chocolate chips or drizzle
Let’s Make Banana Pudding Rice Krispies
Step 1: Make the Pudding Filling
- In a large bowl, whisk the pudding mix with cold milk for 2 minutes until thick.
- Stir in the sweetened condensed milk and Cool Whip.
- Fold in the crushed vanilla wafers and sliced bananas.
- Place the mixture in the fridge while you prep the rest.
Step 2: Melt the Marshmallows
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add in mini marshmallows and stir until smooth and fully melted.
- Mix in the vanilla bean paste or extract.
Step 3: Build the Layers
Line a 9×13-inch pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
Now layer like this:
- Half of the Rice Krispies mixture (press down gently)
- Half of the pudding mixture
- Remaining Rice Krispies
- Rest of the pudding
- Top with more crushed vanilla wafers, sliced bananas, and white chocolate if you like
Press everything gently into the pan so it holds together.
Chill and Slice
- Cover and chill the dessert in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.
- Once firm, slice into big squares.
Serve cold for best flavor and texture.
Tips for Success
- Don’t overmix the bananas or they’ll get mushy.
- Use ripe bananas for the best flavor.
- Layer quickly—the marshmallow mix firms fast.
- Want extra crunch? Add crushed vanilla wafers between each layer.
- Planning to serve later? Wait to slice bananas for topping so they don’t brown.
Make It Your Way
Want to customize this? Try these swaps:
- Add peanut butter to the marshmallow mix for a nutty twist.
- Use banana pudding mix if you love that bold banana flavor.
- Swap Cool Whip for whipped cream if you’re going for homemade.
- Add caramel drizzle on top for a richer bite.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Banana Pudding Rice Krispies ahead of time?
Yes, they’re perfect to make a day in advance. Store them in the fridge in an airtight container.
Do I have to use Cool Whip?
You can substitute with homemade whipped cream, but Cool Whip keeps the texture firm and stable.
Can I freeze these bars?
It’s not recommended—bananas and pudding don’t freeze well and could affect the texture.
What if I don’t like artificial banana flavor?
Use vanilla pudding instead and add real banana slices for natural sweetness.
Banana Pudding Rice Krispies are more than just a twist on a classic—they’re a full-blown dessert experience.
Creamy. Crunchy. Sweet. Nostalgic.
No oven. No fuss. Just layers of flavor that hit every craving.
So what are you waiting for?
Head to your kitchen, grab those marshmallows and Rice Krispies, and treat yourself.
Because once you try these, there’s no going back.
