Graham crackers are a staple snack food in many households. They are often used to make s’mores, are served with milk as an after-school snack, and are a key ingredient in many desserts. However, for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, traditional graham crackers are off limits due to the wheat flour they contain. Thankfully, several companies now offer gluten-free versions of graham crackers, making this classic treat accessible to more people. In this 5000 word article, we will explore the world of gluten-free graham crackers – from brands to baking with them and more.
What are graham crackers?
Graham crackers were invented in 1829 by Sylvester Graham, a Presbyterian minister who advocated for a vegetarian diet and avoidance of alcohol, coffee, and white bread. His graham crackers were made from unsifted whole wheat flour and were meant to be a healthy alternative to white flour crackers.
Traditional graham crackers have a distinct sweet, honey-like flavor and a crunchy texture. They are made by mixing graham flour (a type of whole wheat flour), wheat starch, sugar, honey, and fat. This dough is rolled flat, cut into rectangular shapes, perforated down the middle, and baked.
Today, graham crackers come in different shapes like squares, bears, and rounds. Popular brands include Honey Maid, Keebler, and Nabisco. They are still made with graham flour as the main ingredient, which gives them their signature flavor and texture.
What makes graham crackers not gluten-free?
Graham flour contains gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. When flour with gluten is mixed with liquid, it forms an elastic network that traps gases made by leavening agents like yeast or baking powder. This is what gives baked goods their chewy, springy texture.
However, for people with celiac disease or non-celiac gluten sensitivity, consuming gluten triggers an autoimmune reaction that damages the small intestine. This can cause symptoms like abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, constipation, vomiting, fatigue, and more.
So traditional graham crackers, made with graham flour containing gluten, are unsafe for anyone following a gluten-free diet. Thankfully, several companies have answered consumer demand with delicious gluten-free versions of this nostalgic treat.
What brands offer gluten-free graham crackers?
Here are some of the most popular brands of gluten-free graham crackers currently on the market:
Kinnikinnick – Kinnikinnick Foods is a leader in gluten-free baked goods based in Canada. Their gluten-free graham crackers come in chocolate and honey flavors. They are made with brown rice flour and tapioca starch.
S’mores – This brand by Glutino offers gluten-free graham crackers perfect for making s’mores. They are made with corn flour and rice flour and have a similar honey taste to traditional graham crackers.
Annie’s Homegrown – Annie’s offers gluten-free Bunny Graham Crackers made with a blend of rice, tapioca, and potato flours. They come in a cute bunny shape.
Mi-Del – Mi-Del graham-style cookies are dairy-free and made with tapioca and brown rice flours. They come in cinnamon and honey flavors.
Triscuit – A classic brand now offering gluten-free options, including gluten-free honey rice crackers with a graham-like flavor.
Enjoy Life – This allergy-friendly brand makes crunchy cinnamon graham-style cookies with tapioca, rice, and sorghum flours.
Katz – Katz Gluten Free graham crackers are made with a blend of gluten-free flours and come in plain, cinnamon, and chocolate dipped flavors.
Where can you buy gluten-free graham crackers?
Gluten-free graham crackers can be found in most well-stocked grocery stores, health food stores, and online:
Grocery stores – Many regular grocery store chains like Kroger, Safeway, Publix, and Stop & Shop carry gluten-free graham crackers in the natural foods section or gluten-free aisle. Look for brands like Kinnikinnick, S’mores, Annie’s, and Triscuit.
Health food stores – Stores focused on health and dietary specialty foods almost always carry gluten-free graham crackers. Try Sprouts, Whole Foods, Earthfare, and Fresh Thyme.
Online – Major retailers like Amazon and Walmart sell many brands online. You can also order directly from gluten-free specialty brands like Katz or Mi-Del. Sign up for subscriptions for regular delivery.
Bakeries – Some gluten-free bakeries like Mariposa or Sweet Ali’s offer graham cracker options baked fresh in-house. Check your local listings.
Thrive Market – This is an online membership-based market with many gluten-free pantry staples. They carry several gluten-free graham cracker brands at good prices.
Don’t limit yourself to the crackers aisle when searching. Sometimes stores stock gluten-free graham crackers in the natural foods, gluten-free, or cookie sections too. Read labels carefully to verify gluten-free status before purchasing.
How do gluten-free graham crackers differ from traditional graham crackers?
There are a few key differences between traditional graham crackers made with wheat and gluten-free versions:
Ingredients – Gluten-free graham crackers are made with flours like rice, tapioca, sorghum, corn, quinoa, and almond instead of graham wheat flour. They often use xanthan gum to replicate the elastic texture gluten provides.
Flavor – The gluten-free alternatives have a milder flavor than traditional graham crackers, without that signature honey-wheat taste. Some brands add cinnamon or chocolate to enhance flavor.
Texture – Gluten-free graham crackers tend to be more brittle and delicate than traditional versions. They may break apart more easily and have a more crumbly texture.
Shape – While traditional graham crackers have that iconic perforated rectangular shape, gluten-free options come in simpler shapes like squares or rounds.
Price – Gluten-free specialty products almost always come with a higher price tag than their traditional wheat-based counterparts. Expect to pay $1-2 more for a box of gluten-free graham crackers.
While the gluten-free varieties differ slightly, they offer a comparable crunchy, mildly sweet treat that can be enjoyed by more people thanks to accessible ingredients.
Are gluten-free graham crackers healthier?
Going gluten-free does not necessarily make a food product healthier overall. Gluten-free graham crackers typically contain just as much or even more sugar, calories, and fat per serving compared to traditional graham crackers:
| Brand | Calories | Sugar | Fat |
|---|---|---|---|
| Traditional (Keebler) | 140 | 7g | 3g |
| Gluten-Free (Kinnikinnick) | 130 | 6g | 4g |
The main difference is the type of flour and grains used. Gluten-free flours like rice, tapioca, and corn contain a different nutritional makeup than wheat flour, but not necessarily “healthier”.
The benefits of gluten-free graham crackers depend on the individual consumer:
– For those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, the health benefits are clear – avoiding the autoimmune reaction triggered by gluten.
– Some find gluten-free grains easier to digest than wheat. This can help with digestive issues unrelated to gluten.
– Those without dietary restrictions may not benefit nutritionally from choosing gluten-free over regular graham crackers.
As with any food, moderation and balance is key. Gluten-free graham crackers can be part of a healthy diet, but should be consumed in appropriate portions as an occasional treat.
Can you make gluten-free graham crackers from scratch?
Yes, it is absolutely possible to bake homemade gluten-free graham crackers with just a few simple ingredients:
Flour – A blend of 2-3 gluten-free flours works best. Try brown rice flour, tapioca flour, sorghum flour, millet flour, or almond flour.
Xanthan gum – About 1/2 teaspoon per cup of flour helps bind the dough.
Sugar – White or brown sugar for sweetness. Use 1/4 to 1/3 cup.
Honey – 2-3 tablespoons honey for flavor and moisture. Can use molasses instead.
Salt – 1/4 teaspoon salt.
Butter or oil – 2-3 tablespoons for richness and texture.
Milk or water – 2-3 tablespoons to bring dough together.
Mix dry ingredients first, then cut in butter until crumbly. Add wet ingredients and mix until a firm dough forms. Roll very thin, cut into rectangles, and bake 8-10 minutes until lightly browned. Let cool completely before eating.
Making gluten-free graham crackers from scratch lets you control the ingredients. You can modify them to be dairy-free, egg-free, or lower in sugar too. While more time-consuming than buying pre-made, the homemade version will impress guests.
What can you use gluten-free graham crackers for?
Gluten-free graham crackers are extremely versatile in the kitchen. Here are some of the many ways you can use them:
S’mores – The classic use for graham crackers! Make s’mores over a campfire or in the oven using gluten-free graham crackers, chocolate, and marshmallows.
Pie crust – Combine crushed gluten-free graham crackers with butter or oil to make a tasty crumb crust for pies like key lime or chocolate cream.
Parfaits – Layer gluten-free graham cracker crumbs with chia pudding or yogurt and fruit for a satisfying parfait.
Ice cream topping – Turn gluten-free graham crackers into crumbs or cubes to sprinkle as a crunchy topping on ice cream sundaes.
Cookies – Use gluten-free graham crackers as a base for no-bake cookies. Combine with peanut butter, chocolate, and rice cereal.
Bars – Make cheesecake bars, lemon bars, brownies and more using crushed gluten-free graham crackers for the base.
Breakfast cereal – Crush into bite-size pieces and serve with milk for a simple gluten-free breakfast cereal.
Dippers – Dip gluten-free graham crackers into peanut butter, chocolate hazelnut spread, or pumpkin dip for a snack.
The applications are endless. Let gluten-free graham crackers bring their delightful taste and crunch to all your favorite treats and desserts.
What should you look out for with gluten-free graham crackers?
When purchasing and using gluten-free graham crackers, keep these tips in mind:
Check labels – Carefully read the ingredient list and look for a “gluten-free” statement on the packaging. Make sure no wheat/gluten ingredients are listed.
Avoid cross-contamination – Choose brands that are produced in dedicated gluten-free facilities if highly sensitive. Gluten from shared equipment can contaminate.
Watch sugar content – Some brands add lots of sugar. Pick a healthier option if diabetes or weight are a concern.
Store properly – Keep gluten-free graham crackers in an airtight container to prevent them from drying out and becoming stale.
Use separate toasters – If making graham cracker s’mores in the oven, use a toaster designated only for gluten-free bread to avoid cross-contact.
Check labels on additions – Make sure any other ingredients used like chocolate, butter, or fruit spreads are also gluten-free.
With vigilance about labels and shared kitchen tools, gluten-free graham crackers can be enjoyed safely. Always communicate with loved ones about diet restrictions too.
Conclusion
Gluten-free graham crackers open up this classic snack to the large number of people avoiding gluten in their diets. While gluten-free options taste slightly different than traditional wheat-based graham crackers, brands like Kinnikinnick, S’mores, Triscuit, and Enjoy Life foods allow you to enjoy s’mores, pie crusts, ice cream toppings, and so much more. With a growing number of options being sold both online and in stores, plus the ability to make them at home, you can bring the nostalgic taste of graham crackers back to your kitchen in a gluten-free form. Just be diligent about label reading, cross-contamination risks, and any other food allergies. With some care taken, the crunchy, mildly sweet goodness of graham crackers can again be a part of your gluten-free lifestyle.