If you love banana pudding and the chewy joy of Rice Krispie treats, you’re about to fall in love with these Creamy Banana Pudding Crunch Bars. They’re sweet, creamy, and perfectly crunchy, bringing together the best of both worlds. These bars are a simple, no-bake dessert that tastes like comfort and sunshine in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy, no-bake treat that comes together in 15 minutes.
- Combines creamy banana pudding flavor with crispy crunch.
- Perfect for parties, kids’ snacks, or an easy summer dessert.
Ingredients
Each ingredient plays a key role in texture and flavor.
- Butter (3 tbsp): Adds richness and helps melt the marshmallows smoothly.
- Mini Marshmallows (5 cups): The gooey base that binds everything together.
- Banana Pudding Mix (1 box, instant): Gives that creamy banana flavor.
- Rice Krispies Cereal (6 cups): The crunchy backbone of these bars.
- Crushed Vanilla Wafers (1 cup): Adds cookie crunch, just like banana pudding.
- Milk (1/4 cup): Makes the pudding layer extra creamy.
- Whipped Topping (1 cup): Lightens the texture and adds smooth sweetness.
- Sliced Bananas (1 banana): Fresh banana slices bring a real fruit taste.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Melt the butter in a large pot over low heat.
- Add marshmallows and stir until completely melted and smooth.
- Stir in the dry banana pudding mix until well combined.
- Remove from heat and gently fold in the Rice Krispies cereal until coated.
- Press the mixture into a buttered pan using a spatula. Don’t press too hard, or the bars will be tough.
- Mix milk and whipped topping, then spread evenly over the cooled bars.
- Sprinkle crushed vanilla wafers on top and layer with banana slices. Chill for 30 minutes before cutting into squares.
Mistakes to Avoid
- Overheating the marshmallows: This can make your bars too hard. Melt slowly for a chewy texture.
- Skipping the chill time: The pudding layer needs to set to keep your Creamy Banana Pudding Crunch Bars intact.
- Using warm pudding mix: Always use instant pudding to avoid a runny mess.
Pro Tips
- Add a drizzle of caramel for a decadent twist.
- Try swapping vanilla wafers for graham crackers for a different flavor.
- For crunchier bites, mix in a handful of crushed nuts.
Serving Suggestions
These bars are perfect with a glass of cold milk or a warm cup of coffee. You can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. They’re also great for picnics or potlucks — a fun twist on classic Rice Krispie Treats Variations.
Creamy Banana Pudding Crunch Bars
Ingredients
Crunch Bars Base
- 3 tbsp butter
- 5 cups mini marshmallows
- 1 box instant banana pudding mix
- 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
Topping Layer
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 cup whipped topping
- 1 banana sliced
- 1 cup crushed vanilla wafers
Instructions
- Melt the butter in a large pot over low heat.
- Add mini marshmallows and stir until fully melted and smooth.
- Stir in the dry banana pudding mix until well incorporated.
- Remove from heat and fold in Rice Krispies cereal until evenly coated.
- Press the mixture into a greased pan using a spatula. Avoid pressing too hard.
- Mix milk and whipped topping until smooth, then spread over cooled bars.
- Top with crushed vanilla wafers and banana slices. Chill for 30 minutes before slicing into squares.
Notes
- Chill before cutting for clean edges.
- Use instant pudding only.
- Store in fridge up to 3 days. Add caramel drizzle for extra flavor.
FAQs
How do I keep my Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats from sticking to the pan?
Grease your pan lightly with butter or nonstick spray before pressing in the mixture. It helps remove the bars easily without breaking.
Can I make Banana Pudding Rice Crispy Treats ahead of time?
Yes! Make them a day ahead, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Let them sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before serving for the best texture.
Can I use other cereals for Rice Crispy Squares?
Absolutely! Try cornflakes or puffed wheat if you want to experiment with Banana and Rice flavor combinations. The texture will change slightly, but they’ll still taste delicious.
Conclusion
A dessert this easy deserves a spot on your Pinterest board. Whip up these Creamy Banana Pudding Crunch Bars anytime you crave something creamy, crunchy, and irresistibly banana-filled. Don’t forget to pin this recipe and share the sweetness!
