Homemade Graham Crackers 🥮🍯

These homemade graham crackers are a delicious sweet treat that are perfect for snacking or using as a base for s'mores! They're simple to make, and you'll love the warm, comforting flavors they bring. Plus, you can customize them with your choice of spices or add-ins!

Ingredients

For the graham cracker dough

• 1/2 cup of shortening
• 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups whole wheat flour
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup milk

Instructions

• In a medium bowl, cream together the shortening and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
• Stir in the vanilla extract, making sure it’s well incorporated.

🍽️ Pro tip: Make sure your shortening is at room temperature for easier mixing. You can use a hand mixer or stand mixer for a fluffier texture!

• In another bowl, combine the whole wheat flour, all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually stir in this dry mixture to the creamed mixture, alternating with the milk, until a dough forms.

• Cover the dough and chill in the refrigerator until firm, about 30 minutes.

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease your cookie sheets.

• On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough out to roughly 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into rectangles or desired shapes.

🍪 For a fun twist, use cookie cutters to create themed shapes for holidays or special occasions!

• Place the cut pieces onto prepared cookie sheets, leaving about 1/2 inch between each piece.
• Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until crisp and lightly golden brown on the edges.
• Transfer to wire racks to cool completely.

Variations

• Spiced Graham Crackers: Add a pinch of cinnamon and nutmeg to the flour mixture for a warm spice flavor.
• Chocolate Dipped: Dip cooled crackers into melted dark chocolate for an indulgent treat!
• Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend, but be cautious of the liquid added. Adjust as necessary for consistency.
• Honey Flavor: Replace some of the brown sugar with honey for a natural sweetness and a unique flavor twist. Adjust the milk amount to maintain the dough consistency.

📅 Store your homemade graham crackers in an airtight container for up to a week (if they last that long!). Enjoy them as a snack, or get creative with delicious recipes!