Homemade Animal Crackers with Freshly Milled Flour

Animal crackers bring a sense of nostalgia and whimsy that feels just right with a cup of tea or a kid-friendly lunchbox. The playful shapes add visual joy, while the crisp texture and balanced flavor create a perfect snack or gift. Baking them at home gives you the rewarding chance to control every ingredient—especially when you start with fresh milled flour, which adds a subtle nutty flavor and tender texture. With easy substitutions and friendly tips, this recipe welcomes you to experiment, customize, and enjoy baking as a warm, rewarding experience.

Course Snack

Cuisine American

Keyword animal crackers

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 8

Chill Time 2

Total Time 2 18

Servings cracker

Calories 69kcal

Ingredients

6 tablespoons salted butter room temperature (86 grams)
1/4 cup maple syrup 70 grams
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/8 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 cups freshly milled soft white wheat flour, finely milled 173 grams

Instructions

In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the softened butter and maple syrup - cream them together with the paddle attachment until smooth, 1-2 minutes.
Next add the vanilla, cinnamon and salt and continue mixing on medium speed until incorporated.
Add the flour, 1/2 cup at a time. Mix until a stiff dough forms.
Flatten the dough into a disk and cover with an air tight wrap. Chill the dough for 2 hours or overnight.
Pull the dough from the fridge and allow to soften to a workable state, before rolling out.
Preheat oven to 350* F. and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough 1/4 to 1/8 inch thick. Cut out shapes from the dough.
Place the shapes on the parchment lined baking sheet and bake for 7-9 minutes until golden brown. Watch them closely, because they will burn if you're not careful.
Let the animal crackers cool and store in an airtight container for 5-7 days.

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