Pin Recipe My apartment oven has seen many midnight experiments, but these crispy rice cake stacks started on a Tuesday evening when I wanted something crunchy without committing to full-blown mozzarella sticks. The smell of bubbling cheese filled my tiny kitchen so completely that my roommate wandered in with a plate, asking what kind of magic was happening at 200°C.
I first made these for a girls night in and watched them disappear faster than I could bake new batches. Now they are my go-to when friends text saying they are dropping by unexpectedly and I need something that looks impressive but requires zero actual effort.
Ingredients
- Round plain rice cakes: The sturdy base that holds everything together without getting soggy
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: Creates those gorgeous cheese pulls everyone loves
- Grated parmesan cheese: Adds the salty umami punch that keeps you coming back
- Olive oil: Helps the toppings stick and gives the tops that gorgeous golden color
- Dried oregano: Brings that pizza shop aroma straight to your kitchen
- Garlic powder: Rounds out the flavors with subtle warmth
- Black pepper: Just enough heat to wake up your tastebuds
- Chili flakes: Optional but recommended if you like a little kick
- Fresh parsley: Adds a bright pop of color and freshness
Instructions
- Get your oven ready:
- Preheat to 200°C (400°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup
- Build the foundation:
- Arrange 4 rice cakes on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them evenly
- Add the first cheese layer:
- Sprinkle each rice cake generously with mozzarella and a dusting of parmesan
- Create the stacks:
- Place another rice cake on top of each one, pressing gently to help them adhere
- Brush and season:
- Brush the tops with olive oil, then coat with remaining cheeses and all your seasonings
- Bake to golden perfection:
- Bake for 15–20 minutes until the cheese is bubbling and rice cakes are thoroughly crisp
- Finish with freshness:
- Let them cool for just a couple minutes, then sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving
Pin Recipe 
Pin Recipe These became a regular at our weekly movie nights after someone accidentally dipped one in marinara sauce and discovered the perfect combination. Now no movie night feels complete without a platter of these golden stacks on the coffee table.
Make Them Your Own
I have found that sliding a thin tomato slice between the layers adds moisture and makes them feel almost like mini pizzas. Roasted red peppers work beautifully too and add this gorgeous sweetness that balances the salty cheese.
Cheese Variations
Smoked gouda creates this incredible depth that makes people ask what your secret ingredient is. A sharp cheddar and mozzarella blend gives you the best of both worlds with extra tang and perfect meltiness.
Serving Suggestions
These are substantial enough to stand alone but absolutely sing when paired with the right dip. A warm marinara feels classic while pesto adds something fresh and herbaceous that plays nicely with the oregano.
- Marinara sauce adds a classic Italian vibe
- Pesto brings bright basil flavor to the party
- Garlic aioli pairs beautifully with the crispy elements
Pin Recipe 
Pin Recipe Hope these crispy, cheesy stacks become your new favorite way to transform simple ingredients into something extraordinary.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I make these rice cake stacks ahead of time?
These are best served fresh from the oven when the cheese is at its melty peak. You can prepare all ingredients in advance and assemble just before baking. Leftovers can be reheated in the oven at 180°C for 5-8 minutes to restore crispiness.
- → What other cheeses work well in this recipe?
While mozzarella provides perfect melt and parmesan adds savory depth, you can experiment with cheddar for sharpness, gruyère for nuttiness, or smoked gouda for a subtle smoky flavor. A blend of Italian cheeses works beautifully too.
- → How do I prevent the rice cakes from getting soggy?
Arranging rice cakes in a single layer without overcrowding ensures even baking. Avoid adding too much moisture-heavy ingredients between layers. The high oven temperature helps evaporate excess moisture while creating that desired crispy texture.
- → Can I make these spicy?
Absolutely! Increase the chili flakes to 1 teaspoon or add sliced jalapeños between the layers. You could also use pepper jack cheese or a dash of hot sauce brushed over the tops before baking.
- → What dipping sauces pair well with these stacks?
Warm marinara sauce complements the cheesy richness perfectly. Basil pesto adds fresh herb notes, or try garlic aioli for creamy contrast. A simple tomato salsa or even a balsamic glaze drizzle works wonderfully too.