Are Lundberg Organic Salted Caramel Rice Cakes a Healthy Snack? A Detailed Review

When a snack craving hits, it’s easy to reach for something sweet, salty, or both. That’s where Lundberg Family Farms’ Organic Salted Caramel Rice Cakes come in—a crunchy, guilt-free option that promises the best of both worlds. But are they actually healthy? We took a close look at the ingredients, nutrition, taste, and how they stack up against other popular snacks.

Lundberg Family Farms has built a reputation for organic, non-GMO, and sustainably grown rice products. Their salted caramel rice cakes are part of a broader lineup that includes everything from classic brown rice cakes to sweet treats like Apple Pie Sweet Cakes. In this review, we’ll break down what makes these rice cakes a smart snack choice—and where they might fall short.

What Are Lundberg Organic Salted Caramel Rice Cakes?

Lundberg Organic Salted Caramel Rice Cakes are light, crispy discs made from organic whole grain brown rice, lightly sweetened with organic caramel flavor and a hint of sea salt. They’re certified organic, gluten-free, vegan, and non-GMO. Each cake delivers a satisfying crunch with just 50 calories, making them a popular choice for dieters, gluten-sensitive individuals, and anyone looking for a clean snack.

Unlike many mass-market rice cakes that can taste bland or cardboard-like, Lundberg’s version aims for a more indulgent flavor profile. The salted caramel coating provides a sweet-and-salty balance that mimics candy, but without the artificial ingredients. They come in a standard 8.5-ounce bag, perfect for lunchboxes, desk drawers, or post-workout refueling.

• 50 calories per cake, 0g saturated fat, 1g protein, 9g carbs (mostly from whole grain brown rice).

Ingredient Quality and Nutrition Breakdown

One of the biggest selling points of Lundberg Organic Salted Caramel Rice Cakes is their short, recognizable ingredient list. You’ll find organic whole grain brown rice, organic evaporated cane syrup, organic caramel flavor, sea salt, and organic sunflower oil. There are no artificial flavors, colors, preservatives, or high-fructose corn syrup. This clean label makes them a standout in the snack aisle.

From a nutritional standpoint, each rice cake provides 50 calories, 1g protein, 9g carbohydrates, and less than 1g of sugar. The sugar content comes from the organic evaporated cane syrup and caramel flavor, but it’s modest—about 3g per cake. The fiber content is minimal (under 1g), so they won’t keep you full for long, but they can satisfy a sweet craving without derailing your diet. For comparison, a typical granola bar might have 100–200 calories and 10–15g of sugar.

• Organic whole grain brown rice is the first ingredient, providing complex carbs and a touch of fiber.
• Low in sodium (about 35mg per cake) compared to many savory snack options.
• Vegan and gluten-free certified, suitable for most dietary restrictions.

Taste Test: Do They Deliver on Flavor?

We sampled a bag of Lundberg Organic Salted Caramel Rice Cakes and were pleasantly surprised by the flavor intensity. The caramel coating is not overly sweet—it has a subtle butterscotch-like sweetness that pairs perfectly with the delicate salt crystals on top. The rice cake itself is light and airy, with a satisfying crunch that doesn’t feel heavy or greasy.

The salted caramel flavor is more nuanced than the bold, artificial taste you might expect from cheaper brands. It’s reminiscent of a homemade caramel popcorn, but without the butter or sticky mess. Some tasters noted that the caramel flavor could be stronger, but most agreed it hits the right balance for a daily snack. If you prefer something sweeter, you might also enjoy the Organic Cinnamon Toast Rice Cakes, which offer a warm, cinnamony sweetness.

• Pairs well with coffee or tea for a mid-afternoon pick-me-up.
• Great as a base for toppings like peanut butter, banana slices, or dark chocolate chips.

How Do They Compare to Other Lundberg Rice Cakes?

Lundberg offers a wide range of rice cakes, from savory options like Organic White Cheddar Rice Cake Minis to sweet varieties like the Apple Pie Sweet Cakes. The Organic Salted Caramel Rice Cakes sit somewhere in the middle—they’re sweet enough to feel like a treat, but not as decadent as the apple pie version, which has a thicker coating and more sugar.

For those who prefer a plainer base, the Short Grain Brown Rice is a fantastic pantry staple for cooking at home. But when you need a ready-to-eat snack, the salted caramel rice cakes are a convenient, portion-controlled choice. They’re also a better alternative to chips or cookies for anyone watching their calorie or sugar intake.

• Lower in sugar than many flavored rice cakes from other brands.
• No artificial sweeteners or sugar alcohols, which can cause digestive issues for some people.

Who Should Buy These Rice Cakes?

These rice cakes are ideal for anyone who wants a quick, portable snack that’s free from gluten, dairy, and artificial ingredients. They’re particularly well-suited for weight-conscious individuals because the low calorie count allows for guilt-free snacking. Parents can feel good about packing them in lunchboxes, and athletes can use them as a light pre- or post-workout fuel.

However, if you’re following a low-carb or keto diet, the 9g of carbs per cake might be too high for frequent consumption. Similarly, if you need more protein or fiber to stay full, you may want to pair them with a protein source like nut butter or yogurt. For most people, though, these rice cakes are a smart, satisfying addition to a balanced diet.

• Great for gluten-free, vegan, and clean-eating lifestyles.
• Not suitable for low-carb or keto diets due to carb content.
• Best enjoyed as an occasional treat rather than a meal replacement.

If you’re looking for a snack that’s both delicious and mindful of your health goals, Lundberg Organic Salted Caramel Rice Cakes deliver on all fronts. They’re made with simple, organic ingredients, low in calories and sugar, and have a flavor that satisfies without overdoing it. Whether you enjoy them straight from the bag or topped with your favorite spread, they’re a smart choice for clean eating. To explore more of Lundberg’s wholesome snack options, check out the Organic Cinnamon Toast Rice Cakes for another tasty variety.