Calories in Rice Cakes: Full Nutrition Breakdown

Rice cakes are a popular low-calorie snack made from puffed rice pressed into a round disc. One plain unsalted rice cake provides approximately 35 calories, 7.3 grams of carbs, 0.4 grams of fiber, and 0.7 grams of protein. They are naturally low in fat and free of gluten when made from pure rice, though they offer limited vitamins and minerals on their own.

Calories by serving size:

While rice cakes are very low in calories per piece, they are primarily refined carbohydrates with minimal fiber, protein, or fat. Topping them with nut butter, avocado, or cottage cheese adds the protein and healthy fats needed to turn a rice cake into a more balanced and satisfying snack.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Are rice cakes a healthy snack?

Rice cakes are low in calories and fat, which makes them a convenient base for snacking, but on their own they offer very little nutritional value. They are made almost entirely of refined carbohydrates with minimal fiber, protein, vitamins, or minerals. The key to making rice cakes a healthy snack is pairing them with nutrient-dense toppings like almond butter, hummus, or sliced avocado.

How do flavored rice cakes compare to plain ones?

Flavored rice cakes such as caramel, cheddar, or chocolate varieties typically contain 40 to 60 calories per cake compared to 35 for plain, with added sugar, sodium, or artificial flavoring. The calorie increase is modest, but the added sugars can add up if you eat several. Plain rice cakes topped with your own wholesome ingredients generally provide better nutrition and more control over what you are eating.

Are rice cakes good for weight loss?

Rice cakes can be useful for weight loss because of their very low calorie count, making them an easy way to satisfy a craving for something crunchy without consuming many calories. However, because they are low in protein and fiber, they do not keep you full for long on their own. Pairing them with a protein source like cottage cheese or turkey slices makes them a more effective part of a weight loss diet.

Do rice cakes have a low glycemic index?

No, plain rice cakes actually have a high glycemic index of around 82, which means they cause a rapid spike in blood sugar. This is because the puffing process breaks down the rice starch into a form that is very quickly digested and absorbed. People managing blood sugar levels should pair rice cakes with protein or healthy fats to slow down the glycemic response.

How do rice cakes compare to bread?

A single rice cake has about 35 calories compared to roughly 75 to 80 calories per slice of bread, but a rice cake also provides far less fiber, protein, and overall nutrition. Two rice cakes (70 calories) are comparable in calories to one slice of bread but still offer less satiety and fewer nutrients. Bread, especially whole grain varieties, is generally the more nutritious option, while rice cakes win on pure calorie count per piece.