Description
Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats
A tropical twist on a classic treat with a hint of coconut flavor!
Ingredients:
9 cups (237g) Rice Krispies cereal
15 ounces (427g) mini marshmallows
6 tbsp butter
1 box (3.4 oz) banana pudding mix
1 tsp coconut extract
½ cup shredded coconut
½ cup crushed vanilla wafers
Instructions:
Melt butter in a pot over low heat, then add marshmallows and stir until smooth.
Mix in banana pudding mix and coconut extract.
Fold in Rice Krispies, shredded coconut, and crushed vanilla wafers.
Press into a greased pan and let set before cutting.
#TropicalBananaCrispies
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect treats every time. First, grease a 9×13 inch baking pan thoroughly. In a large pot, melt the 6 tablespoons of butter over low heat. Once melted, add all 15 ounces of mini marshmallows. Stir constantly until the marshmallows are completely smooth and no lumps remain. Remove the pot from the heat. Immediately stir in the entire box of banana pudding mix and the teaspoon of coconut extract until fully incorporated and the mixture is uniform in color.
Now, quickly add the 9 cups of Rice Krispies cereal, the 1/2 cup of shredded coconut, and the 1/2 cup of crushed vanilla wafers. Use a sturdy spatula to fold everything together, ensuring the cereal is evenly coated with the marshmallow mixture. Work efficiently before the marshmallow begins to set. Transfer the mixture to your greased pan. Use a sheet of parchment paper or lightly greased hands to press the mixture firmly and evenly into the pan. Allow the treats to cool and set completely at room temperature for at least 1-2 hours before cutting into squares.
Serving Suggestions
These treats are fantastic on their own, but you can elevate them for special occasions. For a decadent dessert, serve a square topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a drizzle of caramel sauce. They pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a cup of cold milk. For a party platter, cut them into smaller, bite-sized pieces and dust lightly with powdered sugar or extra crushed vanilla wafer crumbs.
How-to Summary
Grease a 9×13 pan. Melt butter, then melt marshmallows in it. Off heat, stir in pudding mix and extract. Fold in cereal, coconut, and wafers. Press firmly into the pan and let set before cutting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use regular marshmallows instead of mini? Yes, but mini marshmallows melt faster and more evenly. If using regular, cut them into smaller pieces for best results.
How should I store these Rice Krispie Treats? Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, they can be refrigerated for up to a week, though the texture may firm up.
Can I omit the coconut? Absolutely. If you’re not a fan of coconut, simply leave out both the shredded coconut and the coconut extract. The banana pudding flavor will still shine.
My treats turned out very hard. What happened? This usually means the marshmallow mixture was overheated or cooked for too long. Always use low heat and remove the pot as soon as the marshmallows are smooth.
Can I add other mix-ins? Definitely! Consider adding 1/2 cup of chopped nuts, white chocolate chips, or even dried banana chips for extra texture and flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using High Heat: This burns the butter and marshmallows, leading to hard, discolored treats. Low and slow is key.
- Insufficient Greasing: Not greasing the pan well will make the treats extremely difficult to remove.
- Not Pressing Firmly: Gently pressing results in treats that fall apart. Use firm, even pressure to compact the mixture.
- Adding Mix-Ins Too Early: Always fully combine the marshmallow and pudding base before adding cereal to ensure even flavor distribution.
Conclusion
These Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats are a simple yet spectacular upgrade to the beloved classic. The combination of creamy banana, tropical coconut, and buttery vanilla wafers creates an irresistible flavor and texture experience. By following the detailed guide and tips provided, you can easily avoid common pitfalls and create a perfect batch every time. This recipe is sure to become a new favorite for potlucks, parties, or a fun family treat. Enjoy your delicious tropical creation!
