Hi Bold Bakers! WHY YOU’LL LOVE THIS RECIPE: This Homemade Graham Cracker Recipe is a game-changer for anyone who loves baking from scratch. With their sweet, nutty flavor and perfect crunch, they’re an ideal upgrade from store-bought options. Plus, they’re surprisingly easy to make with a prep of 30 minutes! Already have an account?
Simple Ingredients: You likely already have everything you need in your pantry. Versatile Uses: Perfect for pie crusts, s’mores, or just snacking on their own. Better Than Store-Bought: Freshly baked graham crackers deliver a deeper flavor and satisfying texture.
If you’re a fan of making your own baking staples, especially for the busy holiday season, you’ll love exploring other homemade basics on Bigger Bolder Baking. From Marshmallows to Cream Cheese, from Mixed Spice to Mincemeat, mastering these essentials lets you elevate your desserts from the ground up. Just like with these graham crackers, you’ll find that making your own ingredients adds a unique touch to every recipe—and it’s easier than you might think! IMPORTANT NOTE: This recipe was improved and updated on 8/25/2024, to include NEW STEP-BY-STEP photography, explanations and substitutes of key ingredients, answers to the most frequently asked questions, and Pro Chef Tips.
Table of Contents
Why Are They Called ‘Graham’ Crackers?
Graham crackers are a versatile, sweet whole wheat cookie used in everything from s’mores to pie crusts. Made with coarsely ground Graham flour, they have a rustic, hearty texture. It is similar to conventional whole wheat flour in that both are made from the whole grain, but ground more coarsely. It adds to the flavor and texture. Flavored with honey and cinnamon for a signature taste. Serve as the base for countless desserts or as a stand-alone snack. The name “Graham” is tied directly to the flour that gives these crackers their distinct texture and history. Graham flour is named after Presbyterian minister Sylvester Graham. That’s why you’ll always see Graham crackers capitalized — and Graham believed that a diet anchored by homemade whole grain bread is what was intended for us.
While Graham crackers were made to minimize stimulation using a vegetarian diet, that doesn’t mean they aren’t delicious and can’t be used in several scrumptious Graham cracker dessert recipes, whether as a graham cracker crust or with graham cracker crumbs.
Tools You Need
Large mixing bowl Measuring cups Measuring spoons Glass measuring jug Hand whisk 2 baking sheets Parchment paper Silicone spatula Plastic wrap Pizza cutter Fork
Key Ingredients and Substitutes
Whole Wheat Flour Provides structure and the nutty, coarse texture characteristic of graham crackers. Whole wheat has bran and germ intact so can add dietary fiber to kids through this snack. Light Brown Sugar Sweetens and adds moisture, contributing to the flavor and color. Substitutes: Coconut sugar will have a caramel taste. Or use molasses in our Brown Sugar Recipe to make your own. Cinnamon Adds warm spice and depth of flavor. Substitutes: Nutmeg, a pinch of allspice. Baking Soda Leavens, helping the crackers rise slightly for a light, crisp texture. Salt Balances sweetness and enhances the overall flavor. Cold Butter, Cubed Provides richness, flakiness, and binds the dry ingredients. Either slated butter or unsalted butter will work. Substitutes: Margarine or coconut oil (solidified) will yield a different texture. Whole Milk Adds moisture and contributes to tenderness. Substitutes: you can use full-fat dairy-free milk such as coconut milk, almond milk, oat milk, or cashew milk. Honey Sweetens, adds moisture and contributes to chewiness and flavor. Substitutes: Maple syrup or agave syrup. Vanilla Extract Enhances flavor with sweet, aromatic notes.
How To Make Graham Crackers
Prep
Make the dough
Chill the dough
Shape Graham crackers
Bake the crackers
Gemma’s Pro Chef Tips
To make sure your butter is cold enough and prevent it from melting too fast, you can also grate frozen butter. It creates pockets of butter throughout and adds loads of air and texture. I don’t recommend using all-purpose flour as it won’t yield the same result as whole wheat flour. If your oven doesn’t have a fan, rotate the baking sheet halfway through the baking time. This ensures even browning and prevents one side from getting too dark. For a crunchier texture, bake them a bit longer, but watch closely to avoid burning. When they’re hot out of the oven, sprinkle wihth cinnamon sugar for extra flavor and texture. Don’t forget to check out Chocolate Graham Crackers if you love this one!
Graham Cracker Make Ahead and Storage Instructions
Make Ahead: Dough: Prepare the graham cracker dough up to a week in advance. After mixing, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. For longer storage, you can freeze the dough for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before rolling out and baking. Baked Crackers: Once baked and cooled, graham crackers can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Store: Room Temperature: Keep cooled graham crackers in an airtight container to maintain their crispness. Place them in a cool, dry place away from moisture. Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the baked graham crackers. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To enjoy, thaw at room temperature for a few hours before serving.
How do you make graham crackers crispy?
Baking the crackers until they are just golden and letting them cool on the tray ensures they crisp up.
Can I make graham crackers gluten-free?
You can substitute a gluten-free flour blend or our Easy Almond Flour Mix for wheat flour, but the result may not have the signature texture.
Why does the dough need to be chilled?
Chilling the dough makes it easier to handle and ensures the crackers maintain their shape during baking.
Can I freeze homemade graham crackers?
Yes, both the dough and baked crackers freeze well. Thaw them at room temperature before serving or baking.
Why are holes poked in graham crackers?
The holes prevent the crackers from puffing up, ensuring an even texture.
Can I make flavored variations?
Yes, you can add cinnamon, cocoa powder, or spices to create unique flavors.
Dessert Recipes Using Graham Crackers
Gemma’s Best-Ever New York Cheesecake Easy Key Lime Pie Recipe in 10 Minutes No-Bake Lemon Meringue Cheesecake 15 Minute Coconut Cream Pie S’mores Ice Cream Sandwich S’more Cheesecake (No-Bake Recipe)
Full (and printable) recipe below! IMPORTANT NOTE: This recipe was improved and updated on 8/25/2024, to include NEW STEP-BY-STEP photography, explanations and substitutes of key ingredients, answers to the most frequently asked questions, and Pro Chef Tips.
