This no-bake banana puffed rice cake is creamy, crunchy, and light, perfect for a refreshing sweet treat. With just a few ingredients, you can create a dessert that combines the crisp texture of puffed rice with the smoothness of whipped cream and the sweetness of bananas.
Ingredients
- 4 cups puffed rice cereal
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream (or whipped topping)
- ½ cup sweetened condensed milk (or powdered sugar for sweetness)
- 3–4 ripe bananas, sliced
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: honey or caramel drizzle for topping
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cream Base
Whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold in sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract until smooth.
Step 2: Layer with Puffed Rice
Spread a thin layer of the whipped cream mixture in the bottom of a dish. Sprinkle puffed rice on top and gently press down.
Step 3: Add Bananas
Arrange banana slices evenly over the puffed rice layer.
Step 4: Repeat the Layers
Continue layering whipped cream, puffed rice, and bananas until all ingredients are used, finishing with whipped cream and bananas on top.
Step 5: Chill
Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the puffed rice to soften slightly and the flavors to blend.
Step 6: Serve
Slice and serve chilled. Optionally drizzle with honey or caramel before serving.
Variations
- Chocolate Lovers: Add cocoa powder or Nutella to the cream for a chocolate-banana version.
- Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped walnuts, almonds, or pecans between layers.
- Tropical Twist: Mix in pineapple chunks or mango slices with bananas.
- Light Version: Use Greek yogurt instead of cream for a healthier dessert.
Nutritional Information (Per Slice – Approx. 10 Servings)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 220 |
| Carbohydrates | 28 g |
| Protein | 4 g |
| Fat | 11 g |
| Saturated Fat | 6 g |
| Cholesterol | 30 mg |
| Sodium | 65 mg |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugar | 14 g |
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigerator: Keep covered up to 2 days (bananas may brown slightly).
- Freezer: Not recommended, as bananas and cream may separate when thawed.
Pro Tips
- Dip banana slices in lemon juice before layering to prevent browning.
- For firmer texture, serve after just 1 hour of chilling. For softer texture, chill overnight.
- Use very ripe bananas for extra sweetness and creaminess.
- If you want crunchier bites, reserve some puffed rice for sprinkling just before serving.
FAQs
1. Can I use whipped topping instead of cream?
Yes, store-bought whipped topping works well for this recipe.
2. Will the puffed rice stay crunchy?
It will soften slightly in the cream but still retain some bite — that’s part of the charm!
3. Can I make it sugar-free?
Yes, use sugar-free sweetened condensed milk or just lightly sweeten the cream with stevia or monk fruit.
4. What dish works best?
A loaf pan or rectangular dish works well for easy slicing.
5. Can I use other fruits?
Absolutely — strawberries, kiwi, or mango make great additions alongside bananas.
