Crackers

Crackers are thin, flat, crispy baked foods made from flour, water, and sometimes salt. They have been enjoyed as a snack for hundreds of years. Crackers come in many shapes, sizes, and flavors. People eat them plain, with cheese, with peanut butter, or dipped in soup.

How Crackers Are Made

Crackers are made from a simple dough of flour, water, oil, and salt. The dough is rolled out very thin and cut into shapes. Then the crackers are baked in a hot oven until they are dry and crispy. Some crackers have tiny holes poked in them before baking to keep them flat. Different flavors are added by using herbs, cheese, or seeds.

Types of Crackers

There are many kinds of crackers. Saltine crackers are thin and salty, and are often eaten with soup. Graham crackers are slightly sweet and are used to make s'mores. Animal crackers are shaped like animals and are a favorite snack for kids. Whole wheat crackers are made with whole grains for a healthier option. Water crackers are plain and are often served with cheese.

Fun Facts

• The holes in saltine crackers are called "docking holes" and keep the crackers flat.
• Graham crackers were invented by a minister named Sylvester Graham in the 1800s.
• Animal crackers have been made since the 1800s and come in over 50 animal shapes.

Did You Know?

Animal crackers come in a box shaped like a circus train car with a string handle, which was originally designed as a Christmas ornament!