What can you substitute for Graham Crackers?
Are you looking for a graham cracker substitute? You can find graham crackers tucked away in most of our cupboards. They are our handy little go-to, whether we are eating them as a quick treat, turning them into S’mores or using them as baking ingredients, and turning them into pie crusts. But what happens when you open the cupboard and they are all gone? Don’t panic. You could try using cookies, digestive biscuits, crushed cereal, saltine crackers, gingersnaps, pretzels, or even ice-cream cones instead. We will look at this list in more detail, but first let’s look a bit more at Graham crackers.
What are Graham Crackers?
Graham crackers are a type of sweet, slightly savory, and crunchy cookie that originated in the United States. They were first developed by a Presbyterian minister named Sylvester Graham in the early 19th century as part of his vegetarian diet philosophy.
Graham crackers are typically made from whole wheat flour, which gives them a distinct nutty flavor. They are slightly sweetened with honey or sugar and often flavored with cinnamon or other spices. The dough is rolled thin, baked until crispy, and then divided into rectangular or square-shaped crackers.
Common ways to use Graham Crackers:
- S’mores: Graham crackers are a key ingredient in the classic campfire treat known as s’mores. They are sandwiched together with melted chocolate and toasted marshmallows to create a delicious combination.
- Pie crust: You can mix crushed graham crackers with melted butter and use as a base for pie crusts. They work particularly well for desserts like cheesecake or key lime pie.
- Snacks: Graham crackers can be enjoyed on their own as a simple snack. They are often eaten plain or served with a glass of milk. Some people also like to spread toppings such as peanut butter, Nutella, or cream cheese on them.
- Cracker crusts: You can crush Graham crackers and use as a base for various desserts and sweet treats. They make a great crust for ice cream cakes, fruit tarts, or dessert bars.
- Dessert layering: You can layer Graham crackers with other ingredients to create a no-bake dessert like a refrigerator cake. Alternating layers of graham crackers, whipped cream, and fruit or pudding create a delicious and easy-to-make dessert.
- Baking ingredient: You can use crushed graham crackers in baked goods like cookies, muffins, or bread. They can provide a layer of added texture and flavor.
Overall, graham crackers offer a crunchy and slightly sweet taste that works well in both sweet and savory recipes. This makes them a versatile ingredient in the kitchen.
Okay, before we look at your graham cracker substitute options, let’s deal with that empty cupboard situation!
Where can I buy Graham Crackers?
If you want to be more prepared and ensure you don’t run out of graham crackers then you should stock up now.
Nowadays most general supermarkets stock a large supply of graham crackers. Or if you prefer you can also purchase graham crackers on-line. Here is a link for a large 73.2 ounce (6 packs) graham crackers.
So why not jump on and place your order today.
STOCK UP NOW!
Use for snacks, desserts, and baking. Made with real honey for a sweet flavor. No fructose syrup. 0mg saturated fat.
Store in a cool dry place once opened.
What can I substitute for Graham Crackers
Here are some of the best products to substitute the flavor and role that graham crackers deliver.
- Cookies
- Saltine crackers
- Ice-cream cones
- Crushed cereal
- Crushed Pretzels
- Crushed Gingersnaps
Graham Cracker substitutes
Cookies as a graham cracker substitute
If you don’t have graham crackers on hand, you can often use cookies as a substitute in certain recipes. Here are a few ways you can substitute cookies for graham crackers:
- Pie crust: you can use crushed cookies as a substitute for graham crackers in pie crusts. Simply crush the cookies into fine crumbs and mix them with melted butter. Or use a binder like honey or maple syrup. Press the mixture into the pie dish and proceed with your recipe as usual.
- S’mores: While the classic s’mores recipe traditionally uses graham crackers, you can substitute them with cookies of your choice. Consider using plain or flavored cookies, like shortbread or chocolate chip cookies, to sandwich the melted chocolate and toasted marshmallows.
- Snacks: Cookies can be enjoyed on their own as a snack, just like graham crackers. They can be eaten plain or paired with a glass of milk. You can also spread toppings like peanut butter, Nutella, or cream cheese on cookies to enhance their flavor.
- Cracker crusts: You can use crushed cookies as a substitute for graham crackers in dessert crusts. Consider using cookies that complement the flavors of your dessert. For example, use chocolate cookies for a chocolate mousse pie or lemon cookies for a citrusy tart.
- Dessert layering: Just like graham crackers, you can layer cookies with other ingredients to create a no-bake dessert. Alternate layers of crushed cookies, whipped cream, and fruit or pudding to create a delicious layered dessert.
Remember that the flavor and texture of the final dish may vary depending on the type of cookie you use as a substitute. It’s always a good idea to choose cookies that complement the flavors of the recipe you’re making.
Digestive biscuits
Digestive biscuits can work very well as a substitute for graham crackers in many recipes. Both have a similar texture and flavor profile, with a slightly sweet and slightly nutty taste. However, digestive biscuits tend to be a bit denser and have a more pronounced whole wheat flavor compared to graham crackers.
You can use digestive biscuits in various ways, similar to graham crackers:
- Crusts: Crush digestive biscuits into crumbs and mix them with melted butter or margarine to make a crust for pies, cheesecakes, or tarts. Press the mixture into the bottom of your pan and chill before adding your filling.
- Dipping: Serve digestive biscuits alongside tea or coffee for dipping. They soften slightly when dipped, making them a delightful accompaniment to hot beverages.
- Cheesecake Base: Use crushed digestive biscuits mixed with melted butter as the base for no-bake cheesecakes. Press the mixture into the bottom of your springform pan before adding the cheesecake filling.
- Layered Desserts: Use digestive biscuits as layers in trifles or other layered desserts. Simply break them into pieces and layer them with fruits, custard, whipped cream, or yogurt.
- S’mores: While not traditional, you can use digestive biscuits in place of graham crackers in s’mores for a unique twist. Sandwich melted chocolate and toasted marshmallows between two digestive biscuits for a delicious treat.
- Toppings: Crumble digestive biscuits over desserts like ice cream, yogurt parfaits, or fruit crisps for added texture and flavor.
Feel free to get creative and experiment with different recipes using digestive biscuits as a substitute for graham crackers. Their slightly different flavor and texture can add a unique touch to your dishes!
Saltine crackers
Saltine crackers can be used as a substitute for graham crackers in certain recipes, although the flavor and texture will be different. Here are a few ways you can use saltine crackers as a substitute:
- Pie crust: You can mix crushed saltine crackers with melted butter or a binder like honey or maple syrup to create a crust for certain pies. Keep in mind that the flavor will be more savory and salty compared to a traditional graham cracker crust. It works well for savory pies like quiches or certain types of cheesecake.
- Snacks: Saltine crackers can be enjoyed on their own as a snack, just like graham crackers. They have a savory and crispy texture, and you can eat them plain or with toppings like cheese or peanut butter.
- Cracker crusts: You can use crushed saltine crackers as a substitute for graham crackers in dessert crusts, particularly for recipes that require a more savory or less sweet base. For example, if you’re making a dessert with a salted caramel or savory filling, saltine cracker crumbs mixed with melted butter can provide a crunchy and slightly salty crust.
- Breading: You can use crushed saltine crackers as a breading substitute in recipes that call for graham cracker crumbs. You can use them to coat chicken, fish, or other proteins before baking or frying, providing a crispy and savory crust.
While saltine crackers can be used as a substitute for graham crackers in certain recipes, it’s important to note that the flavor profile will be different. Consider the taste and texture you desire in your recipe and adjust accordingly.
Ice-cream cone
Ice cream cones can be a fun and creative substitute for graham crackers in certain recipes. Here are a few ways you can use ice cream cones as a substitute:
- Crust or base: You can use crushed ice cream cones as a base or crust for certain desserts. You can crush the cones into fine crumbs and mix them with melted butter or a sweet binder like honey or maple syrup. Press the mixture into the bottom of a pan or dish to create a crust for pies, tarts, or dessert bars.
- S’mores: Instead of using graham crackers, you can use ice cream cones as a unique twist on traditional s’mores. Fill the cones with chocolate pieces and marshmallows, then wrap them in foil and heat them in the oven or over a campfire until the marshmallows are toasted and the chocolate is melted.
- Toppings or garnish: You can sprinkle crumbled or crushed ice cream cones over desserts like ice cream sundaes, cakes, or parfaits. They add a delightful crunch and a touch of sweetness to your creations.
- Dessert cups: Use ice cream cones as edible dessert cups. Fill the cones with mousse, pudding, fruit, or any other sweet filling of your choice. This makes for an interactive and enjoyable dessert experience.
- Snacks: Enjoy ice cream cones on their own as a snack. They can be a fun and crunchy treat, especially if you’re craving something sweet.
Remember that ice cream cones have a distinct flavor and texture that differs from graham crackers. Depending on the recipe, this substitution may add a unique twist or alter the taste profile, so consider the overall flavor combination you desire when using ice cream cones as a substitute for graham crackers.
Crushed cereal as a graham cracker substitute
Crushed cereal can be a creative substitute for graham crackers in certain recipes. Here are some ways you can use crushed cereal as a substitute:
- Pie crust: You can mix crushed cereal, such as cornflakes, rice cereal, or bran flakes, with melted butter or a sweet binder like honey or maple syrup to create a pie crust. Press the mixture into the pie dish and bake it until it sets. This works particularly well for pies with fruity fillings or cream-based pies.
- Toppings or garnish: You can sprinkle crushed cereal over desserts like ice cream, yogurt, or puddings to add a crunchy texture and a hint of flavor. Consider using cereals with complementary flavors, such as chocolate cereal for a chocolate dessert or honey-flavored cereal for a fruity dessert.
- Crust or coating for desserts: You can use crushed cereal as a crust or coating for desserts like cheesecakes, truffles, or cake pops. Dip the dessert into melted chocolate or a sticky syrup, then roll it in the crushed cereal to create a unique texture and flavor combination.
- Snacks: You can enjoy crushed cereal on its own as a snack. It can be a crunchy and slightly sweet treat, especially if the cereal has a sugary coating.
When using crushed cereal as a substitute for graham crackers, consider the flavor and texture of the cereal you’re using. Some cereals might be sweeter or more savory, so choose one that complements the overall taste profile of the recipe. Experiment with different cereals to create unique and delicious variations in your desserts.
Crushed Pretzels as a graham cracker substitute
Crushed pretzels can be a tasty and salty substitute for graham crackers in certain recipes. Here are a few ways you can use crushed pretzels as a substitute:
- Pie crust: You can combine crushed pretzels with melted butter or a sweet binder like honey or maple syrup to create a unique and savory crust for pies. Press the mixture into the pie dish and bake it until it sets. This works particularly well for pies with flavors that pair nicely with salt, such as caramel or chocolate.
- Toppings or garnish: You can sprinkle crushed pretzels over desserts like ice cream, yogurt, or puddings to add a crunchy and salty element. They can also provide a nice contrast to sweeter flavors. Consider using crushed pretzels as a topping for sundaes, parfaits, or even as a crunchy layer in a trifle.
- Coating for desserts: You can use crushed pretzels as a coating for desserts like chocolate-covered strawberries, truffles, or cake pops. Dip the dessert into melted chocolate, caramel, or another sweet coating, then roll it in the crushed pretzels. The combination of sweet and salty flavors can be quite delightful.
- Snacks: You can enjoy crushed pretzels on their own as a salty and crunchy snack. They can provide a satisfying alternative to graham crackers when eaten plain or paired with dips like peanut butter, Nutella, or cream cheese.
When substituting crushed pretzels for graham crackers, keep in mind the saltiness and crunch that pretzels bring to the recipe. Adjust the amount of sweeteners or adjust other flavors accordingly to balance the overall taste. Experiment with different types of pretzels, such as regular, flavored, or pretzel sticks, to achieve the desired flavor and texture in your recipe.
Crushed Gingersnaps
Gingersnaps can be a delicious and flavorful substitute for graham crackers in certain recipes. Here are a few ways you can use crushed gingersnaps as a substitute:
- Pie crust: You can mix crushed gingersnaps with melted butter or a sweet binder like honey or maple syrup to create a crust for pies. The spicy and aromatic flavors of gingersnaps can add a delightful twist to pies, especially those with flavors that pair well with ginger, such as pumpkin or apple.
- Cheesecake crust: Instead of using graham crackers, you can use crushed gingersnaps as a crust for cheesecakes. The warm and spicy notes of gingersnaps can complement the creamy and tangy flavor of the cheesecake filling.
- Dessert bars: You can use crushed gingersnaps as base or crust of dessert bars, adding a flavorful and crunchy element. Combine with melted butter and press the mixture into the bottom of the baking dish before adding the rest of the layers or fillings.
- Toppings or garnish: Sprinkle crushed gingersnaps over desserts like ice cream, puddings, or yogurt to add a burst of ginger flavor and a pleasant crunch. The spiciness of gingersnaps can enhance the overall taste and provide an interesting contrast to the creaminess of the dessert.
- Baking ingredient: You can incorporate crushed gingersnaps into other baked goods like cookies, muffins, or bread for an added burst of flavor and texture. Simply replace a portion of the flour or other dry ingredients with crushed gingersnaps to infuse the recipe with the distinctive ginger flavor.
When substituting gingersnaps for graham crackers, consider the spiciness and sweetness of the cookies. Gingersnaps have a stronger and more pronounced flavor compared to graham crackers, so be mindful of how it may impact the overall taste of your recipe.
FAQs
What is UK equivalent of graham crackers?
Graham crackers UK equivalent, and Australia too, would be digestive biscuits, or a blend of digestive biscuits and rich tea biscuits. While they’re not exactly the same in taste and texture, digestive biscuits share some similarities with graham crackers and are commonly used in similar ways in recipes. Digestive biscuits have a slightly sweet, slightly nutty flavor and a crunchy texture, making them suitable for use in pie crusts, cheesecake bases, and other recipes that call for graham crackers. If you’re unable to find digestive biscuits, another option could be rich tea biscuits, although they are less sweet and may have a slightly different texture. Ultimately, digestive biscuits are your best bet for a similar substitute in the UK.
What is a good substitute for graham crackers in cheesecake?
My recommendation would be ginger snap biscuits, or digestive biscuits. They both work really well as a base for a cheescake. You can blend them down to a fine grain, mix with melted butter, and firm into a cake base. Now that sounds delicious!
What’s the difference between crackers and graham crackers?
The main difference between regular crackers and graham crackers lies in their ingredients, texture, and flavor:
- Ingredients: Graham crackers are typically made with graham flour, which is a coarsely ground whole wheat flour. They may also contain sweeteners like honey, molasses, or sugar, as well as other ingredients like cinnamon or vanilla for flavor. On the other hand, regular crackers can be made from a variety of ingredients such as white flour, whole wheat flour, or other grains like oats or rye. They may or may not contain added sweeteners, depending on the type of cracker.
- Texture: Graham crackers tend to have a slightly coarse and crumbly texture due to the use of graham flour. They are often thicker and more substantial than regular crackers. Regular crackers vary widely in texture, ranging from crispy and crunchy to thin and delicate, depending on how they’re made and what ingredients are used.
- Flavor: Graham crackers have a distinctively sweet and slightly nutty flavor, thanks to the use of whole wheat flour and sweeteners. They often have hints of cinnamon or honey, which contribute to their unique taste. Regular crackers, on the other hand, come in a wide range of flavors, from plain and savory to cheesy, herbed, or even spicy, depending on the recipe and ingredients used.
In summary, while both crackers and graham crackers are versatile snacks that you can enjoy on their own or in recipes, graham crackers stand out for their sweet, nutty flavor and coarser texture, thanks to the use of graham flour and sweeteners.
Summary for Graham Cracker substitutes
Okay – that’s you all sorted with suitable substitutes for graham crackers.
In conclusion, graham crackers are versatile cookies that you can use in various ways in the kitchen. They have a slightly sweet and nutty flavor and a crunchy texture. While you can use graham crackers in recipes like s’mores, pie crusts, and as a standalone snack, you can also use one of the alternative options listed above if you don’t have them on hand.
Remember to consider the specific flavors, textures, and sweetness levels of the substitutes when using them as alternatives for graham crackers. Adapt the recipe accordingly to achieve the desired taste and overall balance. Enjoy exploring different options and experimenting with these substitutions in your culinary adventures!
If you would like to learn more about other ingredients you can swap out have a look at our Substitutes section.