Heart Cake: Caramel Corn Rice Cakes Recipe
Discover the perfect blend of sweet nostalgia and modern health benefits with this unique Heart Cake recipe. Inspired by classic flavors, these caramel corn rice cakes combine the crunch of a rice cake with a rich caramel glaze. The result is a cake that not only satisfies your craving for a snack but also keeps your calorie intake in check. Enjoy the satisfying taste of caramel rice cakes while indulging in the goodness of whole grain brown rice and the familiar crunch of quaker rice cakes. This recipe is an innovative twist on traditional rice cakes and is sure to ship smiles across every serving.
Key Benefits & Nutritional Advantages

Wholesome & Delicious
- Rice cake recipes like this deliver a delicious snack that is both tasty and light on calorie count.
- This cake offers a healthy twist with whole grains such as whole grain brown rice and brown rice cakes, ensuring you enjoy a nutritional boost.
- Every ingredient is carefully selected to satisfy your hunger while keeping your daily value balanced.
Enhanced Flavor & Texture
- The unique caramel flavor perfectly coats each rice cake, creating a crunchy snack with a melt-in-your-mouth caramel finish.
- Fresh corn is used in the process to ensure the natural flavor comes through, complemented by a pinch of salt that brightens every bite.
- By adding chocolate and cinnamon, you can further elevate the flavor profile, making each cake a standout item on any snack platter.
Family-Friendly & Customizable
- This recipe is ideal for a quick breakfast or a snack any time of day, perfect for those who satisfy their hunger with a delicious treat.
- The versatility of rice cakes lets you substitute or add seed toppings, ensuring that even quaker caramel corn gluten free versions work well.
- Whether you’re planning a delivery to a party or simply preparing an order at home, these cakes with your favorite yogurt or cream are designed to make you feel weighed in a positive way.
Ingredients

Essential Items (Use per pack as indicated)
- Rice cake: 12 pieces (ensure you use a pack of rice cake that meets quality standards; approximately 6–19 times throughout the preparation)
- Granulated sugar: 1 cup (use sugar approximately 2–4 times to sweeten the mix)
- Corn syrup: ½ cup (precisely 1 time for a balanced caramel consistency)
- Unsalted butter: ¼ cup (an ingredient that lightly enriches the cake)
- Salt: a pinch (repeat salt 2–7 times during seasoning)
- Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon (adds natural flavor and caramel flavor exactly once)
- Baking soda: ¼ teaspoon (a key ingredient that creates the signature airy texture)
Optional & Dietary Alternatives
- Whole grain brown rice: Replace with whole grain brown rice (use 1–5 times) for extra fiber.
- Quaker rice cakes: Alternatively, try quaker rice cakes (1–4 times) for a familiar crunch.
- For a dietary swap, use soy lecithin instead of butter (1–2 times) or consider a substitute like coconut oil.
- For those who prefer a sweeter version, a bag of additional sugar can be used, though use sugar only 2–4 times overall.
- Add a touch of caramel color (exactly 1 time) if you desire a more visually striking cake.
Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare Your Kitchen
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Gather your ingredients: Ensure every ingredient (including your rice cake, sugar, corn syrup, and unsalted butter) is measured precisely.
- Arrange your equipment: Use a medium saucepan, a heatproof spatula, and a packaging bowl to hold the coated rice cake pieces.
2. Create the Caramel Mixture
- Combine sugar, corn syrup, and butter in the saucepan over medium heat. This caramel mixture should be stirred continuously.
- Add salt and vanilla extract gradually, ensuring the natural flavor of the caramel shines through.
- Stir in the baking soda; this will cause the mixture to foam slightly and enhance the texture of your cake.
- As the caramel simmers, the corn elements will blend with the caramel, ensuring a harmonious flavor throughout the cake.
3. Assemble the Rice Cakes
- Pour the hot caramel evenly over your rice cake pieces in a large bowl.
- Toss gently until every rice cake is uniformly coated; this step ensures that each cake is a consistent snack.
- Spread the coated rice cake pieces on the baking sheet, ensuring they have enough room to crisp up.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes, keeping an eye on them so they do not overcook.
4. Cool and Serve
- Allow the caramel rice cakes to cool at room temperature until the caramel hardens slightly.
- Once cooled, break the cake into smaller serving pieces.
- For an extra crunchy snack experience, serve rice cakes with your favorite dip or cakes with your favorite yogurt.
- Enjoy each serving immediately, ensuring they are consumed right out of the bag for maximum delicious taste.
Nutrition & Serving Information

Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Servings: 12 pieces per pack
- Calories: Approximately 120 calorie per serving
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 120 calorie
- Total Fat: 3g (includes soy lecithin where applicable)
- Carbohydrates: 25g (derived partly from sugar and corn syrup)
- Protein: 2g
- Daily Value: Provides a balanced daily value for a tasty snack
- Nutrition: The product details on your label confirm that every ingredient is chosen for its nutritional benefits.
For more delicious ideas, check out our article Caramel Rice Cakes: A Sweet, Easy Bite for additional snack inspiration.
Additional Tips & Variations
- For a Richer Taste: Sprinkle chocolate (1–5 times) and cinnamon (1–2 times) over the rice cake pieces before baking.
- Extra Crunch: Add seed toppings for an extra crunchy snack that complements the soft caramel texture.
- Dietary Adjustments: If you prefer a dietary alternative, choose quaker caramel corn gluten free or caramel corn gluten free rice options available from a trusted manufacturer or brand.
- Serving Ideas: Pair your cake with a fresh apple or a bowl of quaker oats for a balanced breakfast.
- Packaging & Delivery: When shipping your rice cake creations, make sure to use sturdy packaging so that the cake remains intact and crispy.
- Review & Rating: We encourage every customer to leave a review and rating after they order this cake. If you ever need to contact us for additional information, please refer to the product information on our website.
- Extra Tips: Always read labels for product details, and if you ever need to navigate any additional information, please contact our support team. Do not never run out of ideas—explore seven delicious flavors by trying different natural flavor combinations. Moreover, if you substitute ingredients like maltodextrin or degerminated milled corn, your cake will differ in texture but remain equally delicious.
You might also link to reputable food blogs or culinary journals that offer creative variations on snack recipes. For instance, Epicurious can provide additional inspiration and ideas that readers can explore.
Conclusion
In conclusion, caramel corn rice cakes are a simple yet versatile treat that effortlessly marries traditional flavors with modern convenience. Furthermore, this easy recipe invites you to experiment with variations, ensuring that every bite is as delightful as it is innovative. Ultimately, I encourage you to try these caramel corn rice cakes and make snack time both fun and creative.

Caramel Corn Rice Cakes
Equipment
- 1 medium saucepan For melting caramel ingredients
- 1 Mixing Bowl For combining caramel with rice cakes
- 1 Baking Sheet For baking the rice cakes
- Parchment Paper To line the baking sheet
- 1 Candy Thermometer (Optional) For checking caramel temperature
Ingredients
Caramel Mixture:
- 1 cup granulated sugar Ensure it’s evenly measured.
- 1/2 cup corn syrup Use light corn syrup for best results.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter Cut into small pieces.
- A pinch of salt Enhances flavor.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Pure extract recommended.
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda For a light foamy texture.
Rice Cakes:
- 1 package rice cakes approx. 12 pieces – Use plain, crispy rice cakes.
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine granulated sugar, corn syrup, and unsalted butter.1 cup granulated sugar, 1/2 cup corn syrup
- Stir continuously until the mixture is smooth and slightly thickened.
- Remove the saucepan from heat, then add a pinch of salt, vanilla extract, and baking soda. Stir until the mixture becomes foamy.1/4 cup unsalted butter, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 1/4 teaspoon baking soda, A pinch of salt
- Immediately pour the caramel mixture over the rice cakes in a large mixing bowl. Fold gently to ensure each rice cake is evenly coated.1 package rice cakes
- Spread the coated rice cakes evenly onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes until the caramel sets and the rice cakes become crispy. Check regularly to avoid overbaking.
- Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the caramel corn rice cakes cool at room temperature.
- Once cooled, break the rice cakes into bite-sized pieces and serve immediately.
Notes
- For an extra twist, sprinkle a light pinch of sea salt or drizzle extra caramel sauce over the finished rice cakes. Experiment with add-ins like chopped nuts or dried fruits to customize your snack.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are rice cakes caramel healthy?
Rice cakes can be a healthy choice when made with quality ingredients. A well-balanced recipe uses whole grain brown rice or even quaker rice cakes to deliver a tasty treat with controlled sugar and corn syrup ratios. This caramel flavor infusion creates a crunchy snack that can fit into a healthy diet without excessive calories.
2. Are corn and rice cakes healthy?
Both corn and rice cakes are healthy when they are part of a balanced diet. They provide dietary fiber and are generally low in calorie, especially when prepared with whole grain brown rice. The natural flavor of caramel, when combined with a pinch of salt, helps maintain a good nutritional profile while keeping the snack delicious.
3. How many calories are in a caramel corn rice cake?
A single caramel corn rice cake averages around 120 calories per serving, although this value can vary with different recipes. By tweaking the sugar and corn syrup ratios, you can adjust the calorie content without compromising the iconic caramel flavor. This flexibility makes it easy to fit these treats into your daily calorie goals.
4. What are the ingredients in Aldi caramel rice cakes?
Typically, Aldi caramel rice cakes include a pack of rice cakes, granulated sugar, corn syrup, unsalted butter, salt, vanilla extract, and baking soda. Some versions may also use natural flavor enhancers like caramel flavor or a dash of caramel color for visual appeal. Always read labels for product details regarding nutrition to confirm the exact ingredient list.
5. Are rice cakes junk food?
Rice cakes are not inherently junk food. When made with whole grain brown rice or quaker rice cakes, and with controlled amounts of sugar and corn syrup, they offer a nutritious snack option. They are designed to satisfy your craving for a crunchy snack without adding unhealthy extras, making them a better choice when eaten in moderation.
6. What is the healthiest rice cake flavor?
The healthiest rice cake flavor emphasizes natural ingredients and minimal additives. A lightly sweetened caramel flavor, especially when combined with whole grain brown rice, is an excellent choice that provides both taste and nutrition. Using natural flavor and avoiding artificial ingredients ensures you enjoy a wholesome snack.
7. What are the cons of rice cakes?
Despite their benefits, rice cakes can be low in protein and may not be very filling on their own. Some commercial versions might include extra sugars or preservatives, so it’s important to read labels for product details regarding nutrition. When prepared at home, you have full control over the ingredients, which allows you to minimize any nutritional drawbacks.
8. Why do bodybuilders eat rice cakes?
Bodybuilders favor rice cakes because they are a low-calorie, low-fat source of quick carbohydrates. Their light, crunchy texture makes them ideal for pairing with protein sources or healthy spreads, and they help maintain energy levels without adding excess fat. Using options like quaker rice cakes ensures that the snack remains a nutritious part of a balanced diet.
9. Do rice cakes spike blood sugar?
Rice cakes have a relatively high glycemic index, which means they can spike blood sugar if consumed in large quantities. However, when paired with protein or healthy fats, this effect can be moderated. Opting for whole grain brown rice cakes further reduces the impact, providing a more balanced nutritional profile.
10. How many calories are in 2 caramel rice cakes?
If one caramel corn rice cake contains approximately 120 calories, two rice cakes would contain roughly 240 calories. This estimate can change depending on the specific ratios of sugar and corn syrup used. By adjusting these ingredients, you can control the calorie count per serving to better match your dietary needs.
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