Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats: A Sweet Twist on a Classic Delight

Introduction

Are you looking for a fun and delicious twist on a classic treat? Look no further than Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats! This innovative dessert combines the beloved flavors of banana pudding with the crunchy, chewy texture of Rice Krispie treats. Perfect for parties, picnics, or simply a sweet indulgence at home, these treats are sure to impress both kids and adults alike. In this blog post, we will guide you through everything you need to know to create these delightful treats, including ingredients, instructions, and tips for serving.

Ingredients

To make Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats, you will need the following ingredients:

• 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
• 4 cups mini marshmallows
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 package (3.4 oz) instant banana pudding mix
• 1 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 banana, sliced (for garnish)
• Optional: whipped cream for topping

Timing

Making Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats is quick and easy. Here’s a breakdown of the timing:

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Chilling Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients and measure them out to ensure a smooth cooking process. This will save you time and help avoid any last-minute scrambles!

Step 2: Melt the Butter and Marshmallows

In a large saucepan over low heat, melt the butter. Once the butter is melted, add in the mini marshmallows and stir continuously until fully melted and smooth.

Step 3: Mix in the Pudding

Once the marshmallows are melted, remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in the instant banana pudding mix and milk. Mix until the pudding is well incorporated and everything is smooth.

Step 4: Combine with Rice Krispies

In a large mixing bowl, add the Rice Krispies cereal. Pour the melted marshmallow and pudding mixture over the cereal and stir gently until all the cereal is well coated.

Step 5: Transfer to a Pan

Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan with butter or non-stick spray. Pour the Rice Krispie mixture into the pan and use a spatula or your hands (dampened to prevent sticking) to press the mixture evenly into the pan.

Step 6: Chill and Set

Allow the treats to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes, or until they are set. You can also refrigerate them to speed up the process.

Step 7: Cut and Serve

Once set, cut the treats into squares or rectangles. Serve them as is or top with banana slices and a dollop of whipped cream for an extra special touch!

Nutritional Information

Here’s the nutritional breakdown per serving (based on 16 servings):

• Calories: 160
• Protein: 1g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fat: 5g
• Sugar: 10g

Keep in mind that nutritional values may vary based on specific brands and serving sizes.

Healthier Alternatives

If you’re looking to make your Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats a bit healthier, consider the following alternatives:

• Use whole grain rice cereal for added fiber.
• Replace regular butter with coconut oil or almond butter.
• Use sugar-free marshmallows for a lower sugar option.
• Incorporate sliced fresh bananas into the mixture for natural sweetness.

Serving Suggestions

These Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats are versatile and can be served in a variety of ways:

• Top with sliced bananas and a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce.
• Serve with a side of whipped cream for dipping.
• Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
• Package them in individual bags for a fun party favor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats, here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using high heat to melt the marshmallows can cause them to harden. Always melt on low heat.
• Not pressing the mixture firmly into the pan can result in crumbly treats.
• Skipping the chilling step may lead to a gooey texture.

Storage Tips

To keep your Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats fresh, follow these storage tips:

• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• If you need to store them longer, refrigerate for up to a week.
• To freeze, wrap individual treats in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw before serving.

Conclusion

Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats are a delightful twist on a classic favorite, combining the creamy taste of banana pudding with the crunchy goodness of Rice Krispies. They are simple to make, and the end result is a crowd-pleasing treat that everyone will love. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just want a sweet snack, these treats are sure to satisfy your cravings. So gather your ingredients and get ready to create a delicious dessert that will have everyone asking for seconds!

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FAQs

Can I use fresh bananas instead of banana pudding mix?

While you can use fresh bananas, the pudding mix provides a creamy texture and enhanced flavor. If you prefer fresh bananas, you can add them to the mixture for extra freshness.

How can I make these treats gluten-free?

To make your Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats gluten-free, ensure that you use gluten-free Rice Krispies and check the labels of all other ingredients.

Can I make these treats vegan?

Yes! You can make a vegan version by using vegan marshmallows and coconut or plant-based butter.

How long do these treats last?

When stored in an airtight container, they will last for about 3 days at room temperature or up to a week in the refrigerator.

Can I add other toppings to these treats?

Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with toppings like chocolate chips, crushed nuts, or sprinkles for added fun and flavor.