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Home » Recipes » Desserts

Korean Rice Cakes with Honey

Published: Mar 3, 2026 by Janet · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • It uses only a handful of basic ingredients.

  • Ready in just 10 minutes from start to finish.

  • Crispy on the outside and delightfully chewy on the inside.

  • Perfect as a quick dessert or afternoon snack.

  • Easy to customize with different toppings and drizzles.

  • A great way to enjoy traditional Korean rice cakes in a simple, modern style.

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

3.5 oz (100 gr) fresh or frozen Korean rice cakes
½ tablespoon butter or vegetable oil
2 tablespoon honey, or more
toasted sesame seeds, for garnish

Directions

  1. If using frozen rice cakes, submerge them in warm water for 20 to 30 minutes, or until they soften. If using fresh rice cakes, skip this step.

  2. Gently separate the rice cakes so they do not stick together.

  3. Preheat a frying pan over low to medium heat. Add the butter and allow it to melt completely.

  4. Add the rice cakes to the pan in a single layer. Cook for about 4 to 5 minutes, turning occasionally, until they become lightly browned and crisp on the outside.

  5. Remove from the pan and serve warm. Drizzle generously with honey and sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top before serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: 1 serving
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes

Variations

  • Spicy honey twist: Add a pinch of chili flakes to the honey for a sweet and spicy flavor contrast.

  • Cinnamon honey: Stir a small pinch of cinnamon into the honey before drizzling.

  • Nutty version: Top with crushed peanuts or almonds for added crunch.

  • Brown sugar glaze: Substitute part of the honey with brown sugar for a deeper caramel flavor.

  • Savory-sweet option: Add a light drizzle of soy sauce along with the honey for a balanced sweet-salty taste.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: These rice cakes are best enjoyed fresh while warm and crispy. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Reheating: Reheat in a frying pan over low heat until warmed through and slightly crisp again. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the rice cakes too soft and chewy without the crisp exterior.

FAQs

Can I use frozen rice cakes directly without soaking?

No, frozen rice cakes should be soaked in warm water until softened to ensure even cooking and the best texture.

What type of rice cakes should I use?

Use Korean cylindrical rice cakes typically made from glutinous rice flour. Both fresh and frozen varieties work well.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, simply use vegetable oil instead of butter to make it fully vegan.

Why are my rice cakes sticking to the pan?

Make sure the pan is properly preheated and coated with enough butter or oil before adding the rice cakes.

How do I keep the rice cakes crispy?

Cook them over low to medium heat and avoid overcrowding the pan so they can brown evenly.

Can I reduce the amount of honey?

Yes, adjust the sweetness to your preference. You can start with less and add more as needed.

Are these rice cakes gluten-free?

Most Korean rice cakes are made from rice flour and are naturally gluten-free, but always check the packaging to be sure.

Can I prepare this in advance for guests?

They are best served immediately, but you can soak frozen rice cakes ahead of time and cook them just before serving.

What other toppings work well?

Chopped nuts, shredded coconut, powdered sugar, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream pair nicely.

Can I air fry the rice cakes instead?

Yes, you can lightly brush them with oil and air fry at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until golden, then drizzle with honey before serving.

Conclusion

Korean Rice Cakes with Honey is proof that simple ingredients can create something truly satisfying. With its crispy exterior, chewy center, and sweet honey finish, this quick dessert snack is perfect for busy days when you want something warm and comforting without spending much time in the kitchen. Try it once, and it may quickly become your favorite easy treat.

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Korean Rice Cakes with Honey is a quick dessert snack made by pan-searing chewy rice cakes until crisp and golden, then drizzling them with sweet honey and topping with toasted sesame seeds. It delivers a delicious contrast of crispy edges and soft, chewy centers in just minutes.

  • Author: Janet
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5 minutes
  • Total Time: 10 minutes
  • Yield: 1 serving
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Pan Fry
  • Cuisine: Korean
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

3.5 oz (100 g) fresh or frozen Korean rice cakes

½ tbsp butter or vegetable oil

2 tbsp honey, or more to taste

toasted sesame seeds, for garnish

Instructions

  1. If using frozen rice cakes, soak them in warm water for 20 to 30 minutes until softened. If using fresh rice cakes, skip this step.
  2. Gently separate the rice cakes so they do not stick together.
  3. Preheat a frying pan over low to medium heat and add the butter or vegetable oil, allowing it to melt or heat fully.
  4. Add the rice cakes in a single layer and cook for 4 to 5 minutes, turning occasionally, until lightly browned and crisp on the outside.
  5. Remove from the pan and transfer to a serving plate.
  6. Drizzle generously with honey and sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top. Serve warm.

Notes

  • If using frozen rice cakes, soaking them first helps ensure even cooking and a better chewy texture.
  • For a spicy twist, add a pinch of chili flakes to the honey before drizzling.
  • Mix a small pinch of cinnamon into the honey for a warm flavor variation.
  • Top with crushed peanuts or almonds for extra crunch.
  • You can add a small drizzle of soy sauce with the honey for a sweet and savory balance.
  • These rice cakes are best enjoyed fresh while warm and crispy.
  • If storing leftovers, keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
  • Reheat in a frying pan over low heat to restore crispness rather than microwaving.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 260 kcal
  • Sugar: 24 g
  • Sodium: 40 mg
  • Fat: 6 g
  • Saturated Fat: 3 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 49 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 3 g
  • Cholesterol: 12 mg

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Hi, I’m Janet! Welcome to Recipes by Janet, where I share simple, delicious, and reliable recipes for every meal.

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