July 5th recognizes 1/3rd of the s’more. It’s National Graham Cracker Day! Hopefully, you saved a few crackers if you were busy making s’mores over the Independence Day holiday. 

When Sylvester Graham first invented the slightly sweetened cracker, he intended it as a health food. In the early 1800s, the Presbyterian minister developed the cracker as part of his “Graham Diet” program. They were made from whole wheat graham flour with added bran and wheat germs. He believed his snack would curb sinful cravings. 

Today, makers use bleached white flour and blend a variety of flavors including honey, cinnamon, and chocolate. They also come in smaller bite-size snacks and fun shapes. 

While a delicious snack on their own, they also make terrific ingredients for desserts. Crushed graham crackers blended with butter and pressed into pie tins, or springform pans make excellent crusts when lightly toasted. Graham crackers layered between yogurt and fruit taste delicious in a parfait. When it comes to crumb toppings, oats, brown sugar, butter, and crushed graham crackers blended together and lightly toasted will always satisfy.

Graham Cracker Sandwiches

Some of the easiest ways of using graham crackers are making a type of sandwich. Of course, one of the most popular treats made with graham crackers is the S’more. However, that’s not the only type of sandwich we can make with these sturdy crackers.

• Ice cream sandwiches – It’s summer, so head to the freezer. Just one scoop of ice cream between two crackers is all it takes. Wrap the sandwich in wax paper and place it back in the freezer for 30 minutes to an hour. 
• Nut butter sandwiches – Whether it’s peanut butter, hazelnut, or sun butter, spread your favorite between two crackers and enjoy. 
• Fruit sandwiches – Layer banana or strawberry slices between two crackers. Add nut butter. 
• Frozen fruit sandwiches – Puree your favorite fruit and then freeze slightly. Spread the pulp on the crackers and refreeze just like you did the ice cream. These sweet treats are delightfully refreshing!

During Christmastime, graham crackers go into overtime. They join forces with gingerbread and create magical houses with frosting. The edible delights may not last very long, but they make memories that last a lifetime. 

HOW TO OBSERVE #GrahamCrackerDay

Pick up some graham crackers and start making some memories. No matter how you celebrate, there are numerous, delicious ways to share.  Post on social media using #GrahamCrackerDay to encourage others to join in paying it forward.