Graham crackers have been a staple in American households since 1829, when Sylvester Graham, a Presbyterian minister, introduced the original whole wheat cracker. While the first crackers lacked fat, sugar, and salt, serving a purpose to deter immoral thoughts, they have evolved into the sweetened treats we enjoy today. Known for their role in s’mores and as a versatile ingredient for crusts in cheesecakes and dessert bars, graham crackers are also a popular snack for activities like carbo-loading during ultramarathons.
Not all graham crackers are created equal. In a taste test conducted by Serious Eats, seven popular brands were sampled to determine the ultimate graham cracker. Criteria included a wholesome taste with hints of whole wheat, a crisp texture that is not overly tough, and a subtle sweetness without being overpowering. The winning brand was declared based on overall taste experience and suitability for various uses.
The Contenders:
1. 365 Organic Honey Graham Crackers
2. Annie’s Organic Graham Crackers
3. Bowl and Basket Sugar Honey Graham Crackers
4. Favorite Day Honey Flavored Graham Crackers
5. Honey Maid Graham Crackers
6. Nabisco Grahams Original
7. Wegman’s Honey Graham Crackers
**Overall Winner:** Nabisco Grahams Original
Characterized as “classic” and “airy and crisp” by testers, these crackers impressed with their texture and slight sweetness from molasses notes.
**Runner Up:** Favorite Day Honey Flavored Graham Crackers
Praised for their honey flavor, these crackers had a good balance of sweetness but were noted for being crumbly.
In conclusion, most graham crackers tested were of good quality, with the winning brand standing out for its classic taste and texture. While some crackers had issues like staleness or excessive sweetness, the overall consensus was positive. The winning brand, Nabisco Classic Grahams, differentiated itself by using sugar and molasses for sweetness instead of honey, offering a unique flavor profile compared to other contenders.
Overall, the choice of graham cracker may not always be the focal point in sweet treats, but a high-quality cracker can elevate the overall dessert experience.
The quality of the ingredients you choose to pair with graham crackers, like your pie filling or chocolate and marshmallows for s’mores, can greatly enhance your overall culinary experience. Whether you’re planning to use graham crackers in cooking or baking, you’ll likely find satisfaction with any brand you select. However, if you intend to enjoy the crackers on their own as a snack, opting for a more flavorful variety may be preferable. Our top picks, Nabisco Classic Grahams and Favorite Day Honey Flavored Graham Crackers, boast delicious taste profiles ideal for standalone enjoyment.
Our rigorous testing methodology ensures unbiased and accurate results. All taste tests are carried out with brands concealed and discussions prohibited among participants. Tasters are presented with samples in random order to prevent palate fatigue and ensure fairness. Each taster evaluates the samples based on various criteria, ranking them accordingly on tasting sheets. The collected data is meticulously tabulated, and results are calculated without any editorial influence to maintain the utmost impartiality and integrity.
For further details, you can read the original article on Serious Eats.
