Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats are a fun and delicious twist on the classic Rice Krispie Treats, combining the flavors of banana pudding with the crunchy, gooey goodness of the original. Here’s a simple recipe to make these delightful treats:
Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats
Ingredients:
- 6 cups (180g) Rice Krispies cereal
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter
- 1 package (10 oz/280g) mini marshmallows (or 6 cups of regular marshmallows)
- 1/2 cup (120ml) banana pudding mix (instant, not prepared)
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup (120g) chopped bananas (optional, for added flavor and texture)
- 1/4 cup (30g) crushed vanilla wafers (optional, for added crunch and flavor)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Ingredients:
- Measure Cereal: Measure out 6 cups of Rice Krispies cereal and set aside.
2. Melt Butter and Marshmallows:
- Melt Butter: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium-low heat.
- Add Marshmallows: Add the mini marshmallows and stir constantly until completely melted and smooth.
3. Add Flavorings:
- Mix in Pudding Mix: Stir in the banana pudding mix until fully incorporated.
- Add Vanilla: Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Combine with Cereal:
- Add Cereal: Pour the melted marshmallow mixture over the Rice Krispies cereal. Stir gently until the cereal is well coated.
5. Add Optional Ingredients:
- Fold in Bananas and Wafers: If using, gently fold in the chopped bananas and crushed vanilla wafers for extra flavor and texture. Be careful not to overmix to avoid mashing the bananas.
6. Transfer to Pan:
- Prepare Pan: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
- Press Mixture: Pour the Rice Krispie mixture into the prepared pan. Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to press it down evenly and firmly.
7. Cool and Cut:
- Cool: Allow the treats to cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares or bars.
Tips:
- Banana Flavor: For a more pronounced banana flavor, you can add a bit of banana extract or use banana-flavored marshmallows if you can find them.
- Texture: To keep the treats from becoming too soft or mushy, try to avoid overmixing once you add the cereal and optional ingredients.
- Storage: Store the Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just make sure to wrap them well to prevent freezer burn.
Enjoy these Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats as a fun and flavorful twist on the classic dessert!