Go Back
–+ servings
Homemade Animal Crackers.

Deliciously Fun Homemade Animal Crackers for Every Snack Time

Enjoy nostalgic flavors with these Homemade Animal Crackers, perfect for every snack time and free from artificial colors.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 10 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 24 crackers
Course: Snacks
Cuisine: American
Calories: 45
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Crackers
  • 1 cup Salted Butter Can use unsalted butter for a less salty taste
  • 1 cup Light Brown Sugar Can be replaced with granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup Honey Maple syrup is a delightful substitute
  • 2 teaspoons Pure Vanilla Extract Consider vanilla bean paste for more flavor
  • 1 large Egg Essential for perfect texture
  • 2 cups All-Purpose Flour Can substitute with gluten-free flour blend
  • 2 teaspoons Baking Powder Provides leavening for a light rise
  • 1 teaspoon Cinnamon Nutmeg can be used for variation
  • 1/2 teaspoon Kosher Salt Use less table salt due to finer grain
For the Glaze
  • 1 cup Powdered Sugar Granulated sugar can be blended to fine powder
  • 2-4 tablespoons Fresh Berry Juice No substitutes for vibrant color
  • Sprinkles (optional) Can substitute with edible glitter or chopped nuts

Equipment

  • Electric mixer
  • Rolling Pin
  • Animal-shaped cookie cutters
  • Baking Sheet
  • Parchment Paper

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. In a large bowl, beat together salted butter, light brown sugar, honey, and vanilla extract until light and fluffy (3-5 minutes).
  2. Add the egg and mix until fully blended and smooth.
  3. Gradually sift in flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt, mixing at low speed until a soft dough forms.
  4. Divide dough into two disks, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 10 minutes.
  5. Roll out one disk on a floured surface to 1/4 inch thickness, cut out shapes with cookie cutters, and place on a baking sheet.
  6. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 8-10 minutes until edges are light golden.
  7. Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
  8. Whisk together powdered sugar and berry juice in a small bowl until smooth, adding water if too thick.
  9. Dip tops of cool crackers in glaze, allowing excess to drip off, and decorate with sprinkles if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1crackerCalories: 45kcalCarbohydrates: 7gProtein: 0.5gFat: 2gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 0.5gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 30mgPotassium: 30mgSugar: 3gVitamin A: 100IUCalcium: 2mgIron: 0.2mg

Notes

Use flour when rolling out dough to prevent sticking. Choose cookie cutters of similar size for even baking. Chill dough to maintain shapes while baking.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!