A Graham cracker is a type of sweet, slightly whole wheat cracker that is often used in baking or enjoyed as a snack on its own. It is sweetened with honey or sugar, and it has a mild, nutty flavor due to the whole wheat flour used in its preparation. Graham crackers are commonly associated with certain desserts, such as the crust for cheesecakes and pies, particularly in the United States.
The cracker is named after Sylvester Graham, a 19th-century American Presbyterian minister and dietary reformer who advocated for a diet that included whole grains. While the modern Graham cracker may not strictly adhere to his original principles, it retains the name in his honor.
Graham Cracker
4
servings30
minutes10
minutesGraham crackers are known for their crisp texture and are often used in various recipes, both sweet and savory. In addition to being a popular ingredient in desserts, they are also used in some savory dishes, like crusts for casseroles or as a base for appetizers.
Ingredients
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup whole wheat flour
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
1/4 cup honey
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, for added flavor)
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon (if using). Set aside.
- In a separate large bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the honey and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture. Mix well until smooth and well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms. Be careful not to overmix; just combine until the dough comes together.
- Divide the dough in half. Roll out each half between two sheets of parchment paper to about 1/8 to 1/4 inch thickness.
- Using a sharp knife or cookie cutter, cut the rolled-out dough into desired shapes. Traditionally, Graham crackers are rectangular, but you can get creative with shapes.
- Carefully transfer the cut-out shapes to the prepared baking sheet, leaving a bit of space between each.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.
- Allow the Graham crackers to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
