Nothing matches the quirkiness of the British and their love for pulling Christmas crackers. They love to pop open the coloured paper-wrapped cylinders to reveal a cute gift, a cheap paper crown, and a bad joke.

A cracker biscuit is a baked snack made from flour dough, which is rolled and baked till crisp. It is known for its crunchy texture and a slightly sweet or savoury flavour. Cracker biscuits can be eaten on their own as a snack or layered with different toppings like cheese, spreads, or dips. They are available in a variety of sizes, shapes, and flavours. Some of the most popular variations of crackers are saltine, wheat, and flavoured – cheese, herbs, or spices.

Cracker Biscuits - Origin

Tom Smith, a London confectioner born in 1823, was the one who revolutionized the Christmas cracker. The first cracker was an inspiration for the much-loved French bonbon. Although in the beginning crackers were not so popular, a clever inclusion of the 'snap' in 1860 propelled the cracker into the spotlight, enticing the people with its unique appeal. His son Walter Smith introduced the idea of adding gifts and paper hats to the cracker, which added to its appeal and made its place in the history of Christmas celebrations. The Tom Smith company soon became a successful business by the 1890s. With a large workforce, their crackers gained a well-established reputation as a holiday must-have that even today is enjoyed by many.

Recipe of Crackers

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp sugar
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• ½ cup water

You may add your choice of herbs, spices, or seeds for flavour or keep it plain.

Instructions for Cooking:

• Set oven temperature to 400°F, or 200°C. Next, spread parchment paper on a baking sheet.
• Add the flour, sugar, salt in a mixing basin. If you want, you can add your choice of herbs, spices, or seeds for additional flavour.
• Create a well in the mid of the dry ingredients and pour in the water and olive oil. Mix to form a firm dough.
• Flour the surface and thinly roll the dough approximately 1/8 inch thick.
• With a sharp knife /pizza cutter, cut the dough into your desired shapes or squares.
• Keep the cut dough onto the baking sheet. You can sprinkle the crackers with additional salt or seeds.
• Bake for 12-15 minutes or till the crackers are golden brown and crisp.
• Turn off the oven and let the crackers cool completely on a wire rack before serving.

Crackers are very simple to make. They are very light biscuits and can be enjoyed alone as a snack, or you can add cheese, salads, cream, etc., and then have them. They are versatile food items and can be served in many different ways.

Crackers are Versatile!

The British enjoy crackers in many different ways:

• These are delicious biscuits and are often enjoyed as a standalone snack or appetizer.
• Crackers go well alongside soups or salads for added texture and crunch.
• The English are famous for their traditional afternoon, and crackers are often a part of the tea spread, accompanied by cheese platters, preserves, or savoury accompaniments.
• They are also paired with various toppings such as cheese, spreads, or dips and are a popular choice for light meals and served in gatherings, too.
• Crackers are often combined with cured meats, cold cuts, or pâtés to create quick and satisfying snacks or light meals.
• Crackers go with other beverages besides tea, such as coffee or wine.
• They are often packed in picnic baskets as they make a convenient and portable snack.
• They are quite popular as a base for canapes or hors d'oeuvres during social events or parties.

Where to Relish Crackers in Britain?

Although crackers are easy to make at home, if you want to experience and explore some more types of crackers, then there are many bakeries and brands that make delicious crackers in Britain. Some of the most famous brands that are well-known for their crackers here are as follows:

Jacob's

Jacob’s was founded in 1851 in Dublin, Ireland. Their products were so delicious that they expanded far and wide, including the UK, which is especially famous for crackers. They manufacture a variety of crackers in a variety of flavours, including creak crackers.

Carr's

Carr’s was established in 1831 in Carlisle, England. It is a well-known British brand that produces a wide range of traditional crackers. Carr’s cracker biscuits are known for their distinctive flavour and crisp texture and are often enjoyed with cheese or dips.

Ritz

Ritz crackers were first manufactured in the US by the Nabisco firm and are now widely consumed everywhere, even in the UK. Since their 1934 launch, they have become well-known for their buttery taste. They are a familiar household known for their classic buttery cracker.

Peter's Yard

Based in Edinburgh, Scotland, Peter's Yard was founded in 2008 and has become famous for its handcrafted, premium crackers. They make them in a variety of flavours. Their crackers have a unique taste and texture that go well with different kinds of cheese and are great for charcuterie boards.

Nairn's

Nairn's was established in Edinburgh, Scotland in 1896. The brand has a long history of manufacturing oat-based goods, including a variety of oat-based crackers. People who are health-conscious love to purchase crackers from Nairn's.

Did You Know?

For years, English crackers have adorned many joyous occasions and distinguished gatherings, bringing a touch of charm to dinners, royal feasts, and private celebrations. The largest Christmas cracker was created by an Australian team, measuring an amazing 63.1 meters in length and 4 meters in diameter. It is recognized by the Guinness World Records and demonstrates how popular this pleasant British biscuit is, all over the world.

Cracker biscuits are a delightful snack that is enjoyed by all!