Save to Pinterest My roommate stumbled into the kitchen one midnight, raiding the pantry like a raccoon, and emerged with a pack of rice cakes and the remnants of a cheese block. Fifteen minutes later, our apartment smelled like a pizzeria, and we were fighting over the last crunchy, cheesy stack.
I made these for a Super Bowl party once, planning them as a mere appetizer, and they disappeared before I even got the wings out of the oven. People kept wandering into the kitchen, snagging them hot from the baking sheet, and asking what kind of fancy bread they were eating.
Ingredients
- 8 round plain rice cakes: The humble foundation that transforms into something extraordinary
- 200 g (7 oz) shredded mozzarella cheese: That magical melt factor that holds everything together
- 100 g (3.5 oz) grated parmesan cheese: Adds the salty, nutty depth that makes people wonder what your secret is
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Brushed on top to help achieve that golden crispy finish
- 1 tsp dried oregano: Brings that classic pizza shop aroma
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder: Because garlic makes everything better
- 1/4 tsp black pepper: A little warmth to cut through all that cheese
- 1/4 tsp chili flakes (optional): For those who like things feisty
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley: Adds a fresh pop of color and brightness
Instructions
- Get your oven ready:
- Preheat to 200°C (400°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to save yourself cleanup time later.
- Build your foundation:
- Arrange 4 rice cakes on your prepared baking sheet, then sprinkle each with mozzarella and a dusting of parmesan.
- Create the stacks:
- Place another rice cake on top of each cheesy layer, pressing down gently so everything sticks together during baking.
- Season the tops:
- Brush with olive oil, then add the remaining mozzarella, parmesan, oregano, garlic powder, pepper, and chili flakes if you are feeling adventurous.
- Bake until golden:
- P slide into the oven for 15 to 20 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and those edges are beautifully crisped.
- Finish with freshness:
- Let them cool for just a couple of minutes, then scatter with parsley and watch them vanish.
Save to Pinterest These became my go-to for those nights when friends drop by unannounced and I have nothing impressive in the fridge. Something about the combination of textures and flavors makes people feel incredibly taken care of, like I actually planned something elaborate.
Make Them Your Own
I have found that slipping a thin tomato slice between the layers adds moisture and makes them feel almost like mini pizzas. Roasted red peppers work beautifully too, especially if you are trying to use up jarred stuff from the fridge.
Cheese Adventures
Smoked gouda creates this incredible campfire flavor that people cannot quite identify but keep reaching for. A sharp cheddar mixed with the mozzarella adds a punchiness that cuts through the mild rice cake base.
Serving Strategy
These are perfect with a simple marinara or some pesto for dipping, but honestly they rarely last long enough for that to matter. I like to double the recipe because the first batch always disappears while the second batch is still baking.
- Set out a small bowl of warm marinara if you want to make it feel like a party
- A sprinkle of everything bagel seasoning on top changes the whole game
- These reheat surprisingly well in a toaster oven the next day
Save to Pinterest Hope these become your midnight snack obsession too.
Questions & Answers
- → Can I make these ahead of time?
These are best served fresh from the oven when the cheese is melted and rice cakes are at their crispest. You can prepare all ingredients beforehand and assemble just before baking.
- → What type of rice cakes work best?
Plain round rice cakes are ideal as they provide a neutral base that lets the cheese and seasonings shine. Look for thin, crispy varieties without strong flavors or coatings.
- → Can I add other toppings?
Absolutely. Sliced tomatoes, roasted red peppers, or even a spread of pesto between layers work wonderfully. You can also experiment with different herbs like basil or thyme.
- → How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a 180°C (350°F) oven for 5-10 minutes to restore crispness—the microwave will make them soggy.
- → Can I make these vegan?
Yes. Use vegan shredded cheese alternatives and nutritional yeast instead of parmesan. The texture and melting properties may vary slightly, but they'll still be delicious.
- → What dipping sauces pair well?
Warm marinara, creamy pesto, garlic aioli, or even a spicy sriracha mayo complement the cheesy flavors beautifully. The rice cakes act as perfect vessels for dunking.