Name: Caramel Rice Cakes Recipe – 5-Minute Sweet & Yummy Delight
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter – Adds richness and helps create a smooth caramel texture.; 1/2 cup (100g) packed brown sugar – Provides deep, molasses-like sweetness.; 2 tablespoons light corn syrup – Prevents crystallization and keeps the caramel smooth.; 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract – Enhances the caramel flavor.; 1/4 teaspoon salt – Balances out the sweetness.; 6 plain rice cakes – Light, crispy base that holds up well to the caramel coating.

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These caramel rice cakes are a sweet and crunchy treat that will satisfy your cravings in the best way possible. With the perfect balance of chewy and crispy, they’re a quick and easy dessert that’s simply irresistible. Whether you’re looking for a snack or a fun dessert for your next gathering, these rice cakes are sure to hit the spot!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Sweet and Savory Delight: These caramel rice cakes bring together the best of both worlds. The caramel’s rich sweetness perfectly balances the light, crispy texture of the rice cakes, making each bite absolutely irresistible.
Quick and Simple: Ready in just a few steps, these caramel rice cakes are a breeze to make, even for beginners. No complicated techniques—just a few ingredients and you’re good to go!
Versatile Treat: Whether you’re looking for an afternoon snack, a fun dessert for a party, or a special treat to share with loved ones, these caramel rice cakes are perfect for any occasion.
Customizable Flavors: Want to add your personal touch? Feel free to drizzle melted chocolate on top, sprinkle some chopped nuts, or even add a pinch of sea salt for an extra layer of flavor. These caramel rice cakes can be as unique as you are!

If you’re looking for more simple and delicious recipes like these caramel rice cakes, be sure to check out our Banana Pecan Caramel Layer Cake. It’s another fan favorite that’s quick to make and perfect for any occasion. You’ll find plenty of easy recipes that fit your craving for something sweet and satisfying!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make these caramel rice cakes. Keep in mind that the measurements will be listed in the recipe card at the bottom of the article.

Rice Cakes: The base of the treat, providing a light crunch and neutral flavor that balances perfectly with the caramel.
Butter: Adds richness and helps the caramel to melt smoothly.
Brown Sugar: Brings the caramel sweetness and a touch of molasses flavor.
Corn Syrup: Helps the caramel hold together and gives it a glossy finish.
Vanilla Extract: Enhances the flavor and adds a warm note to the caramel.
Salt: A pinch of salt brings out the sweetness and creates that irresistible sweet-and-salty flavor.

(Note: The exact measurements of these ingredients will be in the recipe card below!)

How to Make the Caramel Rice Cakes

Step 1: Prepare the Rice Cakes

Arrange the rice cakes on a baking sheet or large plate, ready to be coated with the delicious caramel sauce.

Step 2: Make the Caramel Sauce

In a medium-sized saucepan, warm the butter over medium heat until it fully melts, stirring occasionally to ensure even melting. Once it’s melted, stir in the brown sugar, corn syrup, and salt. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer for about 4-5 minutes, stirring frequently.

Step 3: Add Vanilla Extract

Once the caramel has thickened slightly, remove it from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Let the caramel cool for a minute or two to thicken further.

Step 4: Coat the Rice Cakes

Carefully pour the warm caramel over the rice cakes, using a spoon or spatula to spread it evenly. Make sure each rice cake gets a nice coating of the gooey caramel.

Step 5: Let It Set

Allow the caramel rice cakes to cool for about 10-15 minutes until the caramel has firmed up a bit. You can pop them in the fridge for quicker setting!

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Don’t Rush the Caramel: The key to a perfect caramel is patience! Allow the caramel to simmer for 4-5 minutes to develop a rich, deep flavor. If you rush this step, you could end up with a thinner, less flavorful caramel.
Keep the Heat Low: When melting the butter and brown sugar, keep the heat on medium to low to avoid burning the sugar. Stir constantly to ensure the mixture is smooth and silky.
Use Fresh Rice Cakes: Fresh, crispy rice cakes give the best texture when making these caramel rice cakes. Stale rice cakes may not hold the caramel as well, and you’ll lose that satisfying crunch!
Add Extra Flavor with Toppings: To take your caramel rice cakes to the next level, drizzle with melted chocolate, sprinkle some chopped nuts, or even add a pinch of sea salt for a sweet-salty combo.
Don’t Skip Cooling: After you coat the rice cakes with caramel, let them cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps the caramel firm up and keeps it from being too sticky when you bite into it.
Make a Big Batch: These caramel rice cakes are so easy to make in large quantities. If you’re hosting a party or need a quick snack for the week, make extra and store them for later enjoyment!

How to Serve

Delicious caramel rice cakes with caramel drizzle on a plate

These caramel rice cakes are delicious on their own, but they can also be paired with a variety of sides and toppings to elevate the experience:

Snack Time: Perfect for munching on during your afternoon break or while watching your favorite movie. The sweetness of the caramel combined with the crunch of the rice cakes makes for an addictive treat.
Party Treats: Cut the caramel rice cakes into smaller pieces for a bite-sized dessert. They make a great addition to any party or gathering and are sure to be a hit with guests of all ages!
With Ice Cream: For a decadent dessert, serve these caramel rice cakes with a scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream. The warm caramel will melt slightly, creating a beautiful sauce that pairs perfectly with the ice cream.
Topped with Fresh Fruit: Add a refreshing twist by topping the caramel rice cakes with fresh berries like strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries. The fruit’s natural tartness complements the sweet caramel beautifully.
For Breakfast: Turn these caramel rice cakes into a special breakfast by pairing them with a cup of coffee or tea. You can even add a dollop of yogurt or a drizzle of honey for an extra treat.
Drizzle with Chocolate: For the ultimate indulgence, drizzle melted chocolate over the top of the caramel rice cakes. You can use dark chocolate for a slightly bitter contrast or milk chocolate for an extra-sweet finish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store the caramel rice cakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. They’ll stay crispy and delicious!

Freezing

If you want to make a batch ahead of time, place the rice cakes in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 1 month. Let them thaw before serving.

Reheating

If you’ve frozen the rice cakes, just let them come to room temperature. If you prefer them warm, pop them in the microwave for a few seconds to soften the caramel.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of rice cake?

Absolutely! While plain rice cakes are the most commonly used, you can also experiment with flavored rice cakes for a twist. Try using lightly salted or honey-flavored rice cakes for an added layer of taste. Just be mindful that the flavor might slightly affect the overall taste of the caramel, but it can be a fun variation!

What if my caramel becomes too hard?

If your caramel sets too quickly or becomes too hard, don’t worry! Simply return it to the stove on low heat and stir in a small amount of butter or cream to loosen it up. This will help bring it back to the perfect gooey consistency.

Can I make these caramel rice cakes ahead of time?

Yes, you can definitely make these ahead of time! Once the caramel rice cakes are made, let them cool and then store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. They stay delicious and crispy, so they’re perfect for prepping in advance for a party or gathering.

Can I use a dairy-free version for this recipe?

Yes! To make this recipe dairy-free, simply substitute the butter with a plant-based butter or coconut oil. You can also use a dairy-free chocolate if you’re planning to add a chocolate drizzle. The caramel will still turn out delicious and just as sweet!

Conclusion

These caramel rice cakes are the perfect balance of sweetness and crunch, making them an easy, fun, and irresistible treat to satisfy any craving. Whether you’re enjoying them as a quick snack, serving them at a party, or pairing them with your favorite ice cream, these caramel-coated delights are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. The best part? They’re incredibly simple to make, and you can customize them with your favorite toppings to suit your tastes. Trust me, once you try these, they’ll become a go-to for any occasion. So go ahead—grab some rice cakes, melt that caramel, and enjoy this game-changing treat. You won’t regret it!

Caramel Rice Cakes Recipe – 5-Minute Sweet & Yummy Delight

Author: Chef Rory
Total Time: 15 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

These caramel rice cakes are a delightful blend of crispy rice cakes topped with a rich, buttery caramel sauce. Perfect for a quick snack or a sweet treat!

Ingredients

Scale

For the Caramel Sauce

1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter – Adds richness and helps create a smooth caramel texture.
1/2 cup (100g) packed brown sugar – Provides deep, molasses-like sweetness.
2 tablespoons light corn syrup – Prevents crystallization and keeps the caramel smooth.
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract – Enhances the caramel flavor.
1/4 teaspoon salt – Balances out the sweetness.

For the Rice Cakes

6 plain rice cakes – Light, crispy base that holds up well to the caramel coating.

Instructions

Prepare the Caramel Sauce In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the brown sugar and corn syrup, stirring continuously until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is smooth.
Boil the Caramel Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Allow it to boil for about 3 minutes without stirring, until it thickens slightly.
Add Vanilla and Salt Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in the vanilla extract and salt until well combined.
Coat the Rice Cakes Place the rice cakes on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Carefully spoon the warm caramel sauce over each rice cake, spreading it evenly to cover the top.
Let Them Set Allow the caramel-coated rice cakes to cool at room temperature for about 15 minutes, or until the caramel sets and hardens.

Notes

Optional Toppings: For added flavor and texture, sprinkle chopped nuts, a pinch of sea salt, or a drizzle of melted chocolate over the caramel before it sets.
Storage: Store any leftover caramel rice cakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Category: Snack, Dessert
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American