Graham crackers are more than just a base for your favorite pies and cheesecakes. They’re a versatile ingredient that can elevate a wide range of sweet treats from classic to creative. From no-bake desserts to show-stopping cakes, we’ve gathered 20 mouthwatering graham cracker recipes that will satisfy your sweet tooth. Whether you’re in the mood for something nostalgic like a s’mores dip or adventurous like lemon-graham cracker dessert bars, this collection has got you covered.
In this article, we’ll take you on a journey through the world of graham crackers, exploring ways to use them in everything from simple snacks to impressive showpieces. With recipes ranging from classic cheesecakes and pies to innovative creations like caramel fudge and chocolate bark, there’s something for every sweet tooth out there. So grab your graham crackers and let’s get started!
Classic Graham Cracker Crust for Pies
A classic crust that pairs perfectly with creamy fillings and sweet toppings, this graham cracker crust is a staple for any pie enthusiast. With its buttery flavor and crunchy texture, it’s the perfect base for your favorite pies.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 6 tablespoons (3/4 stick) unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together graham cracker crumbs and sugar.
3. Pour in the melted butter and stir until the crumbs are evenly moistened.
4. Press the mixture into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie dish.
5. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the crust is lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
No-Bake Graham Cracker Cheesecake
A classic cheesecake with a graham cracker crust and creamy filling, without the need for baking.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mix together graham cracker crumbs and sugar.
2. Pour in melted butter and stir until the mixture is evenly moistened.
3. Press the crust mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
4. In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth.
5. Add powdered sugar, sour cream, and vanilla extract; mix until well combined.
6. Pour the cheesecake filling over the crust.
7. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: None! This is a no-bake recipe.
S’mores Dip with Graham Crackers
S’mores Dip with Graham Crackers Recipe
Get ready to elevate your campfire treats game with this indulgent s’mores dip that combines the classic campfire treat with a delicious graham cracker crust. Perfect for snacking, parties, or just because!
Ingredients:
– 1 (16 oz) package cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup milk chocolate chips
– 1 cup marshmallows
– Graham crackers, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine cream cheese, powdered sugar, and butter. Mix until smooth.
3. Add vanilla extract and mix well.
4. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Sprinkle chocolate chips evenly over the top of the cheesecake batter.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
7. Remove from oven and let cool for 10 minutes.
8. Top with marshmallows and serve with graham crackers.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Graham Cracker Toffee Bars
These rich and buttery bars combine the classic flavors of graham crackers, toffee, and caramel for a sweet treat that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup toffee bits (such as Heath or Skor)
– 1 cup caramel sauce (such as dulce de leche or caramel ice cream topping)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together graham cracker crumbs and sugar. Stir in melted butter until well combined.
3. Press mixture into the bottom of a 9×9-inch baking dish lined with parchment paper.
4. Sprinkle toffee bits evenly over the crust.
5. Drizzle caramel sauce over the toffee bits.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
7. Remove from oven and let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chocolate Peanut Butter Graham Balls
These bite-sized treats combine the classic flavors of chocolate, peanut butter, and graham cracker for a sweet and satisfying snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until well combined.
3. Press about 1 tablespoon of the graham mixture into the bottom of a mini muffin tin or a small cookie scoop.
4. In a separate bowl, mix together peanut butter, confectioners’ sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
5. Drop a small spoonful of the peanut butter mixture onto the graham crust.
6. Drizzle melted chocolate chips over the peanut butter layer.
7. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Graham Cracker Banana Pudding
A classic Southern dessert gets a delicious twist with the addition of graham crackers and ripe bananas.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 2 large ripe bananas, sliced
– 1 package (9 squares) graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, whole milk, and sugar. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until sugar has dissolved and mixture is hot but not boiling.
3. Remove from heat and stir in sliced bananas, graham cracker crumbs, salt, and vanilla extract.
4. Pour mixture into 6 (1/2 cup) ramekins or small baking dishes.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until puddings are set and edges are lightly browned.
6. Allow to cool to room temperature before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Graham Cracker Icebox Cake
A classic dessert that’s perfect for hot summer days, this Graham Cracker Icebox Cake is a no-bake delight made with graham crackers, whipped cream, and fresh fruit.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups heavy whipping cream
– 1 cup sliced strawberries
– 1 cup blueberries
– Whipped cream and additional fruit for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mix together graham cracker crumbs and sugar.
2. Add the softened butter and stir until the mixture is evenly moistened.
3. Press the crumb mixture into the bottom of a 9×13-inch dish.
4. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form.
5. Spread half of the whipped cream over the graham cracker crust.
6. Arrange the sliced strawberries and blueberries on top of the whipped cream.
7. Repeat layers: graham cracker crust, whipped cream, and fruit.
8. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: None! This cake is no-bake.
Strawberry Graham Cracker Parfait
Elevate your dessert game with this sweet and crunchy Strawberry Graham Cracker Parfait! Layers of fresh strawberries, graham cracker crumbs, and whipped cream come together to create a refreshing treat perfect for warm weather.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 2 cups sliced strawberries
– 1/4 cup graham cracker crumbs
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form.
2. Cut the strawberries into bite-sized pieces and set aside.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract.
4. To assemble the parfait, start with a layer of whipped cream in a glass or parfait dish.
5. Add a layer of strawberry slices on top of the whipped cream.
6. Sprinkle a layer of graham cracker crumbs over the strawberries.
7. Repeat steps 4-6 until all ingredients are used up, finishing with a layer of whipped cream on top.
Cooking Time: None! This parfait is best served immediately, but it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 hours before serving.
Graham Cracker Chocolate Bark
Create a delicious and easy-to-make dessert with this Graham Cracker Chocolate Bark recipe. With just a few ingredients, you’ll be enjoying a sweet treat in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– 1 cup white chocolate chips
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)
– Sea salt for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until well combined.
3. Press the mixture into the prepared baking sheet, spreading it evenly to cover the surface.
4. Melt the semisweet chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
5. Pour the melted chocolate over the graham cracker crust and spread evenly.
6. If using pecans, sprinkle them on top of the chocolate layer.
7. Melt the white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
8. Drizzle the melted white chocolate over the top of the bark in a zig-zag pattern.
9. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or until set.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (depending on melting time)
Homemade Graham Crackers from Scratch
In this recipe, we’ll create a classic homemade graham cracker that’s easy to make and perfect for snacking or using as a base for your favorite desserts. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can enjoy the rich, buttery flavor of these crackers in the comfort of your own kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup whole wheat flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, whole wheat flour, salt, and baking soda.
3. Add the softened butter and sugar to the dry ingredients. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
5. Cut into desired shapes ( rectangles or squares work well).
6. Place crackers on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cracker.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Graham Cracker Caramel Fudge
Graham Cracker Caramel Fudge Recipe
A sweet and salty fusion of graham crackers, caramel, and creamy fudge, perfect for satisfying your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
– 2 cups granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 12 ounces white chocolate chips
– 1 cup crushed graham crackers (about 6-8 crackers)
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine butter, sugar, corn syrup, and vanilla extract. Place over medium heat; cook, stirring occasionally, until the mixture reaches 235°F on a candy thermometer (hard-ball stage).
3. Remove from heat; stir in white chocolate chips until melted and smooth.
4. Stir in crushed graham crackers and salt.
5. Pour into prepared baking dish; let cool to room temperature.
6. Once set, cut into squares.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Peanut Butter Graham Cracker Cookies
A classic cookie recipe with a twist! These soft and chewy cookies combine the flavors of peanut butter, graham crackers, and a hint of salt.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup peanut butter (creamy or crunchy)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup crushed graham crackers
– 1 egg
– Optional: chopped peanuts or sea salt for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream peanut butter and butter until smooth. Add sugar and mix until combined.
4. Stir in crushed graham crackers and egg.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix until a dough forms.
6. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Lemon Graham Cracker Dessert
A refreshing dessert that combines the classic flavors of lemon and graham crackers with a creamy texture.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9-inch (23cm) springform pan with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together graham cracker crumbs and sugar. Pour in melted butter; stir until well combined. Press mixture into prepared pan.
3. Bake crust for 8-10 minutes or until lightly browned. Let cool completely.
4. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, lemon juice, and vanilla extract.
5. Pour egg mixture over cooled crust. Bake for an additional 20-25 minutes or until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
6. Let dessert cool to room temperature. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Graham Cracker Pumpkin Pie
This classic pumpkin pie recipe gets a delicious twist with the addition of graham cracker crust, adding a buttery and nutty flavor to the traditional sweet potato pie. Perfect for fall gatherings or holiday celebrations.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 2 cups pumpkin puree
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 2 large eggs
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together graham cracker crumbs and sugar.
3. Add melted butter and stir until crumbs are evenly moistened.
4. Press mixture into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie dish.
5. In a large bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, heavy cream, sugar, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
6. Beat in eggs until well combined.
7. Pour filling into prepared crust.
8. Bake for 15 minutes at 425°F (220°C), then reduce heat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for an additional 30-40 minutes or until the filling is set.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Graham Cracker Cinnamon Rolls
These sweet treats combine the simplicity of graham crackers with the warmth of cinnamon and sugar, creating a unique and delicious breakfast or brunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. Add warm water and yeast; stir until crumb mixture forms a sticky dough.
4. Knead dough for 5 minutes, then roll out to 1/4-inch thickness.
5. Brush with melted butter, then sprinkle with cinnamon-sugar mixture.
6. Roll up tightly, cut into 12 equal pieces, and place on prepared baking sheet.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Graham Cracker Marshmallow Squares
A classic dessert that’s perfect for potlucks or special occasions, these squares combine the crunch of graham crackers with the sweetness of marshmallows and a hint of caramel.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup mini marshmallows
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together graham cracker crumbs and sugar. Pour in melted butter; stir until combined.
3. Press the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
4. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly browned.
5. Remove from oven and sprinkle marshmallows over the top.
6. In a small saucepan, combine corn syrup and brown sugar. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until melted and smooth.
7. Pour caramel mixture evenly over marshmallows.
8. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight before cutting into squares.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Graham Cracker Apple Crisp
Graham Cracker Apple Crisp Recipe
This sweet and satisfying dessert combines the crunch of graham crackers with the warmth of cinnamon-spiced apples, topped with a crispy oat mixture.
Ingredients:
– 6-8 medium-sized apples, peeled and sliced
– 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine sliced apples, granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mix until apples are evenly coated.
3. Transfer apple mixture to a 9×9-inch baking dish.
4. In a separate bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs with brown sugar and melted butter until well combined.
5. Top apple mixture with crumbly graham cracker mixture, spreading evenly.
6. Sprinkle rolled oats over the top of the crumb mixture.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until apples are tender and topping is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Graham Cracker Chocolate Mousse
Graham Cracker Chocolate Mousse Recipe
Summary: This rich and creamy dessert combines the crunch of graham crackers with the decadence of chocolate mousse, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 8 ounces high-quality dark chocolate (at least 70% cocoa), finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups crushed graham crackers
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
2. Melt the chocolate in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
3. In a separate bowl, combine the softened butter and crushed graham crackers.
4. Fold the whipped cream into the melted chocolate until well combined.
5. Add the sugar and mix until dissolved.
6. Spoon the mousse into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
7. Top with additional crushed graham crackers, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (prep time included)
Graham Cracker Peach Cobbler
Satisfy your sweet tooth with this classic dessert that combines the warmth of graham crackers, the sweetness of peaches, and the crunch of a crunchy topping.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup melted butter
– 3 cups sliced fresh peaches
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together graham cracker crumbs and sugar. Stir in melted butter until well combined.
3. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. Arrange sliced peaches on top of the crust.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream, softened butter, and vanilla extract.
6. Pour the cream mixture over the peaches.
7. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Graham Cracker Coconut Macaroons
Coconut macaroons meet the crunch of graham crackers in this sweet and salty treat. Perfect for a quick dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups coconut, shredded
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsweetened condensed milk
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together coconut, sugar, and condensed milk until well combined.
3. Stir in vanilla extract.
4. Fold in graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until a dough forms.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls onto the prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Summary
Indulge your sweet tooth with these 20 irresistible graham cracker recipes! From classic desserts to creative twists, this collection has something for everyone. Try a traditional graham cracker crust for pies or cheesecakes, or get adventurous with no-bake cheesecake and s’mores dip. Other standouts include chocolate peanut butter balls, banana pudding, icebox cake, and caramel fudge. Plus, learn to make homemade graham crackers from scratch! Whether you’re a fan of classic flavors or modern twists, these recipes are sure to satisfy your sweet cravings.
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