If you’ve ever felt like store-bought chocolate rice cakes are overpriced (because, let’s face it, they are), this recipe is for you. You’ll save money and get to customize them just the way you like, dark, milk, dairy-free, extra crunchy, or loaded with fun toppings.

I make these Chocolate Rice Cakes every now and then for my kids, since it doesn’t take me a lot of time to prepare. These homemade chocolate rice cakes are a staple in our house, quick, simple, and always a hit. Whether as an after-school snack or a last-minute sweet treat, they never disappoint.

How to Make Chocolate Rice Cakes

The Simple Ingredients You’ll Need

Making chocolate rice cakes is as easy as it gets. You only need three basic ingredients—no fancy kitchen skills required!

• 6 plain rice cakes – Any brand will do, but thinner ones create a crispier bite.
• ½ cup dark chocolate chips (or a chocolate bar, chopped) – I prefer 65% dark chocolate for that perfect bittersweet flavor. You can also use semi-sweet or milk chocolate.
• 1 teaspoon coconut oil (optional) – This helps the melted chocolate spread smoothly and gives a glossy finish.

You can pair these rice cakes with a delicious and sweet Vanilla Bean Frappuccino, easy and 100% homemade.

Choosing the Best Chocolate for a Perfect Coating

Not all chocolates melt the same way. For that smooth, velvety coating, pick high-quality chocolate with cocoa butter rather than fillers. Dark chocolate adds a rich taste, while milk chocolate brings sweetness. If you’re dairy-free, opt for vegan chocolate chips.

If you’re feeling adventurous, mix two chocolates—like white and dark—for a marbled effect. It looks fancy but takes zero extra effort!

Step-by-Step Guide: Making Chocolate Rice Cakes at Home

Prepping the Rice Cakes for the Best Texture

Before slathering on that dreamy chocolate, let’s crisp up the rice cakes for the ultimate crunch.

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Place the rice cakes on a baking sheet.
3. Toast them for 5 minutes—just enough to give them a light crunch.
4. Let them cool completely before adding chocolate.

Toasting is optional, but it makes a world of difference. No more chewy rice cakes—just crisp, chocolatey bites!

Melting Chocolate the Right Way

Now, let’s get that chocolate smooth as silk. You’ve got two foolproof ways:

Microwave Method (Quick & Easy)

1. Place the ½ cup chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl.
2. Heat in 30-second bursts, stirring each time.
3. Once almost melted, stir until completely smooth.

Double Boiler Method (No Risk of Burning)

1. Fill a small pot with an inch of water and bring it to a simmer.
2. Place a heatproof bowl over the pot (make sure it doesn’t touch the water).
3. Add the chocolate chips and stir until melted.

If the chocolate looks thick, stir in 1 teaspoon of coconut oil for a perfect consistency.

Coating and Setting: Achieving That Perfect Crunch

Now comes the fun part—coating the rice cakes in rich, melted chocolate!

1. Spoon melted chocolate onto each rice cake.
2. Use the back of a spoon to spread it evenly.
3. If adding toppings (nuts, dried fruit, coconut flakes), sprinkle them now!
4. Let them set in the fridge for 10-15 minutes until the chocolate hardens.

And there you have it—your homemade chocolate rice cakes are ready to enjoy! They’re crispy, chocolatey, and downright addictive.

For more easy snack ideas, check out this French Silk Slab Pie.

Expert Tips for the Best Chocolate Rice Cakes

How to Prevent Chocolate from Becoming Grainy

Chocolate is temperamental, and if melted incorrectly, it can turn grainy or seize up. To keep it silky smooth, follow these simple tricks:

• Use low heat. If melting in the microwave, heat in short bursts and stir often.
• Avoid water contact. Even a drop of water can make chocolate clump. Use dry utensils and bowls.
• Stir gently. Over-mixing can make chocolate stiff and dull. A slow stir keeps it glossy.

If your chocolate seizes up, don’t panic! Just add ½ teaspoon of coconut oil and stir. It usually brings it back to life.

The Secret to Extra Crispy Rice Cakes

Nobody wants a soggy or chewy rice cake. Here’s how to keep them perfectly crispy:

• Toast before coating. Even a few minutes in the oven (350°F for 5 minutes) helps.
• Don’t add too much chocolate. A thick layer can make them dense and heavy instead of crisp.
• Store in the fridge, not the pantry. The chocolate stays firm, and the rice cake keeps its crunch.

If your kitchen is warm, pop them in the freezer for 5 minutes before eating. The cold chocolate makes them even better!

How to Store and Freeze Chocolate Rice Cakes

Once you’ve made a batch of delicious chocolate rice cakes, you’ll want to keep them fresh for as long as possible. Proper storage ensures they stay crispy, chocolatey, and just as good as the day you made them.

Keeping Them Fresh for Longer

Storing chocolate rice cakes correctly is key to maintaining their crunch. Here’s how to do it right:

• Use an airtight container. This prevents moisture from making the rice cakes soggy.
• Store in the fridge for up to 7 days. The cold helps the chocolate stay firm while keeping the rice cakes crispy.
• Keep them away from strong odors. Chocolate absorbs smells easily, so don’t store them near garlic, onions, or other strong-scented foods.

If you prefer a softer bite, you can leave them at room temperature for up to 3 days, but they might lose some crispiness.

How To Freeze Chocolate Rice Cakes

Freezing chocolate rice cakes is a great way to keep them fresh for longer periods. Follow these steps to freeze them properly:

1. Arrange the rice cakes in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer for about 30 minutes. This prevents them from sticking together.
2. Once firm, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Be sure to remove as much air as possible.
3. Label the container with the date, and store for up to 2 months.

When you’re ready to eat, let them sit at room temperature for 5–10 minutes before enjoying. The chocolate will soften slightly, making them taste fresh again!

Delicious Variations to Try

Peanut Butter & Chocolate Rice Cakes

Chocolate and peanut butter? Say no more! Simply spread a thin layer of peanut butter before adding the melted chocolate. It creates a creamy, nutty base that makes these chocolate rice cakes taste like a Reese’s cup!

Coconut Chocolate Rice Cakes

Want a tropical twist? After coating your rice cakes in chocolate, sprinkle shredded coconut on top. If you toast the coconut first, it adds a deep, nutty flavor that’s out of this world!

White Chocolate & Berry Rice Cakes

For a fruity, creamy version, swap dark chocolate for white chocolate and top with dried raspberries, strawberries, or blueberries. The sweetness of white chocolate pairs beautifully with the tartness of dried fruit.

Why You Should Make Chocolate Rice Cakes at Home

Store-bought chocolate rice cakes might be convenient, but making them at home has so many benefits! Here’s why you’ll love this easy, 3-ingredient recipe.

1. Healthier Than Store-Bought Versions

Many packaged chocolate rice cakes contain preservatives, artificial flavors, and excess sugar. When you make them yourself, you control what goes in, making them a cleaner, healthier snack.

Want a low-sugar option? Use sugar-free dark chocolate. Need extra protein? Add peanut butter or nuts. The flexibility makes homemade so much better!

2. Budget-Friendly & Customizable

A pack of store-bought chocolate rice cakes can cost $1 per cake or more! But at home, you can make them for a fraction of the price—plus, you can customize them however you like.

• Crunchy? Add chopped almonds or pecans.
• Fruity? Sprinkle dried berries.
• Decadent? Drizzle with caramel or white chocolate.

One recipe—endless possibilities!

3. Fun & Kid-Friendly to Make

This recipe is so easy that even kids can help! Let them dip, drizzle, and decorate their own chocolate rice cakes. It’s a messy, fun, and delicious way to get creative in the kitchen.

4. Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you need a quick snack, a healthy lunchbox treat, or a light dessert, these homemade chocolate rice cakes fit the bill. They’re gluten-free, dairy-free (if using vegan chocolate), and guilt-free!

Nutritional Facts of Chocolate Rice Cakes

Chocolate rice cakes are light, crunchy, and satisfying, but how do they stack up nutritionally? Let’s break it down.

Calories, Carbs, and Protein Breakdown

The table below shows the approximate nutrition per one chocolate rice cake (made with dark chocolate).

Nutrient	Amount per serving
Calories	80
Carbohydrates	12g
Sugar	5g
Protein	1g
Fat	3.5g
Fiber	1g

These numbers can change depending on the type of chocolate and extra toppings you add. Dark chocolate tends to have less sugar and more antioxidants, while milk chocolate is sweeter but higher in sugar.

If you want to lower the sugar, opt for sugar-free chocolate or unsweetened cocoa nibs as toppings. For extra protein, sprinkle chopped nuts or drizzle peanut butter over your chocolate rice cakes!

Best Toppings and Side Pairings

One of the best things about chocolate rice cakes is how versatile they are. You can enjoy them plain, or jazz them up with fun toppings and side pairings for an even tastier snack.

Healthy Toppings for a Nutritious Treat

If you’re looking for a healthier twist, try these nutritious add-ons:

• Sliced almonds or walnuts – Adds crunch and healthy fats.
• Chia or flaxseeds – A great source of fiber and omega-3s.
• Dried fruit (cranberries, raisins, or apricots) – Natural sweetness with a chewy bite.
• Greek yogurt drizzle – A tangy contrast to rich chocolate.

Indulgent Toppings for a Dessert Version

Sometimes, you just want to treat yourself. These toppings turn your chocolate rice cakes into a decadent dessert:

• Mini marshmallows – A s’mores-inspired twist!
• Crushed cookies or graham crackers – Adds a buttery crunch.
• Caramel drizzle – Sweet, gooey, and irresistible.
• White chocolate shavings – For a fancy touch.

FAQs About Chocolate Rice Cakes

Here are answers to some of the most common ones about chocolate rice cakes:

Print