There’s something magical about homemade graham crackers.
The moment you take a bite, you’re transported back to simpler times, with memories of campfires and s’mores flooding your senses.
Making your own graham crackers at home not only brings nostalgia but also allows you to enjoy a treat that’s far superior to store-bought versions.
These crackers are perfect for pairing with homemade marshmallows and good quality chocolate for an unforgettable s’mores experience.
Today, we’re diving into a simple yet delightful recipe that will yield around 14 delicious graham crackers.
Ingredients
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter, room temperature
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour (Bob’s Red Mill recommended)
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour (Bob’s Red Mill recommended)
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp salt
Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugars
First, cream the butter, sugar, and brown sugar for approximately two minutes.
This step is crucial as it ensures the sugars are well integrated with the butter, creating a smooth and fluffy base.
Step 2: Add the Wet Ingredients
Next, add in the egg, vanilla extract, and honey.
Mix these ingredients until they are well combined with the butter and sugar mixture.
The addition of honey not only sweetens the dough but also gives the graham crackers their characteristic chewiness.
Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour, all-purpose flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
This dry mixture is what gives the graham crackers their unique flavor and texture.
Step 4: Integrate Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until the dough begins to come together.
At this point, the dough should start to form a cohesive mass.
Step 5: Knead the Dough
Transfer the dough to a clean surface and knead with your hands until it forms a smooth ball.
This step ensures that all the ingredients are well incorporated and the dough is evenly mixed.
Step 6: Shape and Chill the Dough
Shape the dough into a rectangle, then wrap it in plastic wrap.
Flatten the dough into a wider rectangle, which will make it easier to roll out later.
Refrigerate the dough for at least one hour or up to overnight.
Chilling the dough helps to firm it up, making it easier to handle and roll out.
Step 7: Prepare for Baking
Preheat your oven to 350˚F.
Let the dough soften at room temperature for about 10 minutes before rolling it out.
This makes it easier to handle and prevents cracks.
Step 8: Roll and Cut the Dough
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough into a 16×10 inch rectangle, about 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick.
Cut the dough into 2×5 inch rectangles using a paper template for even sizing.
This ensures that all your graham crackers are uniform in size, which helps them bake evenly.
Step 9: Prepare for Baking
Place the cut rectangles on parchment-lined baking sheets.
Score the dough down the middle lengthwise and widthwise, then dock (poke holes) in several places.
Scoring and docking help the graham crackers bake evenly and prevent them from puffing up too much.
Step 10: Bake
Bake the graham crackers for 9-11 minutes, until they are golden brown and set.
The edges should be slightly crisp, and the center should be firm to the touch.
Step 11: Cool Completely
Let the graham crackers cool completely on a wire rack. Cooling them properly ensures they achieve the perfect crunchy texture.
Conclusion
Making homemade graham crackers is a rewarding process that yields a delightful treat, perfect for any occasion.
These crackers are not just a nostalgic snack but also a versatile base for s’mores, cheesecake crusts, or simply enjoying with a glass of milk.
The combination of whole wheat and all-purpose flour, sweetened with honey, and flavored with cinnamon, creates a cracker that’s truly better than anything you can buy at the store.
Give this recipe a try, and you’ll never go back to store-bought graham crackers again!
Additional Tips
Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to experiment by adding a touch of nutmeg or a splash of maple syrup to the dough for a unique twist.
Storage: Store your graham crackers in an airtight container to keep them fresh and crunchy.
Serving Suggestions: Besides s’mores, try using these graham crackers as a base for homemade ice cream sandwiches or as a topping for yogurt and fruit parfaits.