Begin by pouring the Rice Chex cereal into a large mixing bowl, ensuring it’s spread evenly to create a base for your Banana Pudding Muddy Buddies. Set the bowl aside while you focus on melting the almond bark, as the cereal will need to remain crisp.

In a microwave-safe bowl, add the almond bark and heat it in the microwave for 30 seconds. Stir the mixture, then continue melting in 15-second intervals, stirring in between, until it's completely smooth and free of lumps, which should take about 1-1.5 minutes total.

Once the almond bark is melted, pour it over the prepared Rice Chex cereal in the mixing bowl. Quickly stir the mixture with a spatula or large spoon to coat every piece of cereal evenly, taking care that all the Chex are covered in the creamy almond bark.

In a large gallon-sized zip-top bag, combine the powdered sugar and instant banana pudding mix. Seal the bag tightly, and shake it gently to mix the dry ingredients together, creating a sweet coating that will elevate your Banana Pudding Muddy Buddies to delicious heights.

While the cereal is still warm and sticky from the almond bark, transfer it into the prepared zip-top bag with the powdered sugar and pudding mix. Seal the bag firmly and shake vigorously until every piece of coated cereal is evenly dusted with the sweet mixture.

Using a food processor, crush the vanilla wafers into fine crumbs. As you prepare the wafers, ensure they are well-pulverized, then pour them into the bag with your coated Muddy Buddies to add an authentically delicious banana pudding flavor.

Finally, pour the entire mixture onto a large sheet of parchment paper, spreading it out in an even layer. Allow your Banana Pudding Muddy Buddies to cool completely for about 30 minutes, ensuring they harden to the perfect cluster texture before enjoying or serving!