If you love wholesome, crunchy snacks that are easy to make at home, then you’ll adore this healthy graham cracker recipe. Made with natural ingredients and free from refined sugar, these graham crackers are perfect for an afternoon snack, for s’mores, or even as a crust for your favorite pie. Not only do they taste amazing, but they are also healthier compared to the store-bought varieties that often contain unwanted additives and preservatives.
Ingredients & Equipment Needed
Time to prepare: 15 minutes prep, 15 minutes chilling, 12-15 minutes baking
Ingredients:
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
- 1/2 cup almond flour
- 1/4 cup coconut sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (cold and cubed)
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Equipment:
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Pastry blender (or fork)
- Rolling pin
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Measuring cups and spoons
How to Make Healthy Graham Crackers
Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients (5 minutes)
In a large mixing bowl, combine the whole wheat flour, almond flour, coconut sugar, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Whisk until all the ingredients are evenly distributed. This base of wholesome ingredients gives your graham crackers a nutrient-rich start.
Step 2: Cut in the Butter (5 minutes)
Using a pastry blender or a fork, cut the cold, cubed butter into the dry mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. The butter will add a delightful flakiness to your graham crackers, giving them the perfect texture.
Step 3: Add the Wet Ingredients (5 minutes)
In a separate bowl, combine the honey, milk, and vanilla extract. Pour this mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until a dough starts to form. Make sure the dough comes together, but avoid overmixing, as this can lead to dense crackers.
Step 4: Chill the Dough (15 minutes)
Form the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes. Chilling helps to solidify the butter, which leads to crispier graham crackers.
Step 5: Roll Out the Dough (10 minutes)
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chilled dough between two pieces of parchment paper and roll it out to about 1/8-inch thickness. The thinner you roll, the crispier your crackers will be. Try to keep the dough even for consistent baking.
Step 6: Cut the Crackers (5 minutes)
Using a sharp knife or a pizza cutter, cut the dough into squares or rectangles. You can use a fork to prick holes in the crackers, which helps them bake evenly and gives them that classic graham cracker appearance.
Step 7: Bake the Crackers (12-15 minutes)
Place the cut dough on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are golden brown. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning, as these can bake quickly depending on their thickness.
Step 8: Cool Completely (10 minutes)
Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the crackers cool completely on a wire rack. Cooling will help them become crisp and perfect for snacking.
Tips for the Perfect Healthy Graham Crackers
Use Quality Ingredients
For the best results, try to use organic and high-quality ingredients. Using whole wheat flour and almond flour provides more fiber and nutrients compared to refined white flour. The coconut sugar adds a natural sweetness that pairs well with the touch of cinnamon.
Chill the Dough for Crispier Crackers
Chilling the dough is essential for achieving the right crispiness. It helps the butter to firm up, leading to those beautiful layers in each bite.
Experiment with Flavors
Feel free to experiment with different flavors! Adding a pinch of nutmeg or substituting maple syrup for honey can give these graham crackers a unique twist.
Health Benefits of Homemade Graham Crackers
High in Fiber
Since this healthy graham cracker recipe uses whole wheat flour and almond flour, the crackers are higher in fiber than most store-bought varieties. Fiber helps in maintaining a healthy digestive system and can keep you feeling full for longer.
No Refined Sugars
Using coconut sugar and honey instead of refined white sugar makes these graham crackers a healthier option, perfect for those trying to cut down on processed sugars.
Good Source of Healthy Fats
The inclusion of almond flour not only adds a subtle nutty flavor but also adds healthy fats, which are good for your heart and overall health.
How to Store Healthy Graham Crackers
Room Temperature Storage
Store your graham crackers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. This helps maintain their crispiness and keeps them fresh.
Freezing Option
You can also freeze these graham crackers for up to 2 months. Make sure they are completely cooled before placing them in a zip-lock bag or airtight container. When ready to eat, allow them to come to room temperature.
Ways to Enjoy Healthy Graham Crackers
S’mores
These healthy graham crackers are perfect for making s’mores. Layer them with dark chocolate and toasted marshmallows for a fun and tasty treat without all the processed ingredients.
Graham Cracker Crust
Crush these homemade graham crackers to make a graham cracker crust for pies or cheesecakes. The nutty flavor from the almond flour gives a lovely depth to your desserts.
With Nut Butter
Spread some almond butter or peanut butter on these graham crackers for a protein-packed snack. It’s a simple yet nutritious way to fuel your day.
FAQs About Healthy Graham Cracker Recipe
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes, you can make a gluten-free version by substituting the whole wheat flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Ensure that all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
Can I Use a Different Sweetener?
Absolutely! You can substitute coconut sugar with maple sugar or date sugar, and honey with maple syrup or agave nectar. Keep in mind that the flavor might vary slightly depending on the sweetener used.
Can I Make the Dough in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the dough up to 2 days in advance. Just keep it wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.
Why Are My Graham Crackers Not Crispy?
If your graham crackers are not crispy, it could be due to rolling the dough too thick or not baking them long enough. Make sure the dough is rolled to about 1/8-inch thickness, and bake until the edges are golden brown. Allowing them to cool completely on a wire rack also helps in achieving the desired crispiness.
Can I Add Chocolate to This Recipe?
Yes! You can add a bit of cocoa powder to the dry ingredients to create chocolate graham crackers. Simply replace 2-3 tablespoons of the whole wheat flour with cocoa powder.
Final Thoughts on This Healthy Graham Cracker Recipe
This healthy graham cracker recipe is a versatile and nutritious option for those looking to enjoy a beloved snack with a healthier twist. Whether you enjoy them on their own, use them in desserts, or share them with family and friends, these graham crackers are sure to become a favorite.