How to Make Homemade Graham Crackers

How to Make Homemade Graham Crackers

Homemade graham crackers are a delicious and healthier alternative to store-bought versions. They are perfect for snacking, s’mores, or as a base for cheesecakes and other desserts. With simple ingredients and an easy process, you can make your own crisp and flavorful graham crackers right at home.

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups whole wheat flour (preferably finely ground)
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup brown sugar (packed)
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon

Wet Ingredients:

• ½ cup unsalted butter (cold, cut into cubes)
• ¼ cup honey
• ¼ cup milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour, all-purpose flour, brown sugar, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
2. Add the cold butter cubes to the dry ingredients. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, mix until the texture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the honey, milk, and vanilla extract.
4. Slowly pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture, stirring with a wooden spoon or spatula until the dough comes together.

Step 2: Chill the Dough

1. Gather the dough into a ball and wrap it in plastic wrap.
2. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow it to firm up, making it easier to roll out.

Step 3: Roll Out the Dough

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Lightly flour a clean surface and roll out the dough to about ⅛-inch thickness.
3. Use a pizza cutter or sharp knife to cut the dough into rectangles (approximately 2 x 4 inches).
4. Transfer the cut pieces onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 4: Add Classic Graham Cracker Texture

1. Use a fork or toothpick to poke small holes across the crackers to mimic the classic look.
2. If desired, sprinkle a bit of cinnamon sugar on top for extra sweetness.

Step 5: Bake the Crackers

1. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown.
2. Remove from the oven and let the crackers cool completely on a wire rack.

Step 6: Enjoy or Store

• Once cooled, enjoy your homemade graham crackers immediately or store them in an airtight container for up to a week.

Tips for Perfect Graham Crackers

• For a crunchier texture, bake a few extra minutes but watch carefully to prevent burning.
• For a softer version, reduce baking time slightly.
• To make chocolate graham crackers, add 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder to the dry ingredients.
• For gluten-free graham crackers, substitute the flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking mix.

Uses for Homemade Graham Crackers

• S’mores – Layer with chocolate and marshmallows.
• Cheesecake crust – Crush and mix with butter for a homemade crust.
• Peanut butter snack – Spread peanut butter and enjoy as a simple treat.
• Ice cream sandwiches – Use them as cookies with a scoop of ice cream.

Homemade graham crackers are simple to make and taste far better than store-bought options. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a fresh, wholesome treat!