Then the 20th century happens. The Nabisco company gets hold of Graham’s invention and does what industry does best: it improves. The whole wheat flour remains, because the name must mean something. But now it is joined by sugar—brown and white, a cascade of sweetness. There is cinnamon, a whisper of warmth. Honey, maybe, for a golden lie of wholesomeness. Palm oil or vegetable shortening to make it crisp, to give it that satisfying snap. Leavening agents to soften the punishment. Salt to wake the tongue.
Originally, graham crackers contained no sugar or spices. They were invented in 1829 as a "health food" to curb carnal desires through a bland, high-fiber diet. By the late 1800s, companies like Nabisco began adding sugar and honey to appeal to a mass market, transforming a medicinal biscuit into the dessert snack we recognize today. Common Additives in Store-Bought Brands what is graham cracker made of
Often used in place of or alongside honey for cost-efficiency. Then the 20th century happens
The original graham cracker was invented by Reverend Sylvester Graham in the 1820s as a health food. He believed that a diet based on whole grains, fruits, and vegetables could cure many of the ailments of the time. His crackers were made with a coarser type of flour and were designed to be a more nutritious alternative to traditional baked goods. Today, graham crackers are enjoyed by people all over the world and are a popular ingredient in many desserts. But now it is joined by sugar—brown and