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Ritz Claims Top Spot in Food & Wine's Cracker Taste Test

  //food-wine.news-articles.net/content/2025/12/17 .. -top-spot-in-food-wine-s-cracker-taste-test.html
  Published in Food and Wine on Wednesday, December 17th 2025 at 10:10 GMT by Food & Wine

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The Ultimate Guide to Crackers: What Food & Wine’s “Cracker Taste Test” Revealed

When it comes to a humble pantry staple, crackers can be surprisingly nuanced. Are you craving a buttery, flaky bite, a crisp, multi‑grain crunch, or a savory, low‑sodium option that won’t weigh you down? Food & Wine’s recent “Cracker Taste Test” sought to answer these questions—and then some—by putting dozens of brands through a rigorous, blind‑taste experiment. The result? A definitive ranking that helps you choose the perfect cracker for snacking, cheese platters, or that extra crunch in your favorite dip.

How the Test Was Conducted

Food & Wine’s editorial team began by gathering 20–25 of the most popular cracker brands from supermarkets, specialty shops, and online retailers. The selection spanned a wide spectrum: the ubiquitous Ritz, the grain‑heavy Triscuit, the ultra‑thin Wheat Thins, the playful Goldfish‑shaped crackers, and a handful of artisanal options from local bakeries. The crackers were blinded—each labeled with a random code—so that no brand bias could influence the judges.

The taste panel consisted of 10 Food & Wine editors and a handful of culinary students. The panel evaluated each cracker on five criteria:

1. Texture – Was it delightfully crisp or unexpectedly soggy?
2. Flavor – Did the seasoning hit the spot or feel flat?
3. Size & Shape – Did the cracker hold its own against the others in terms of bite‑size and crunch?
4. Overall Enjoyment – Was it a simple snack or a more complex experience?
5. Pairing Potential – How well would it work with cheese, hummus, or savory spreads?

Each cracker received a composite score that determined its rank in the final list. The article also provided a brief “Best For” section, matching crackers to specific use‑cases—cheese platters, dipping, or a quick snack.

The Top Pick: Ritz

It comes as no surprise that Ritz earned the top spot. The buttery, square‑shaped crackers scored high across all categories. Food & Wine noted the cracker’s classic, slightly sweet flavor and its iconic crunch that holds up under cheese and dips. The brand’s versatility—great for a cheese board, an antipasto platter, or even as a crunchy base for mini quiches—was a key factor in its ranking. If you’re looking for a safe, crowd‑pleasing choice, Ritz remains a reliable option.

The Best Cheese Pairer: Triscuit

For the cheese lovers, Triscuit emerged as the best partner. Its hearty, whole‑grain base and subtle nutty undertones complement a wide variety of cheeses, from sharp cheddar to creamy brie. Triscuit’s thicker texture also adds a satisfying bite that helps balance the richness of creamy spreads. Food & Wine’s tasting notes highlighted the cracker’s ability to stand out in a cheese board without overpowering the cheese itself.

The Crunchiest: Wheat Thins

Wheat Thins won the “Crunchiest” category, proving that thinness doesn’t sacrifice texture. These crisp, golden crackers offered a light yet satisfying snap, and their mild flavor makes them a neutral canvas for both sweet and savory toppings. They also score well in the “Low‑Calorie” category, appealing to health‑conscious snackers who don’t want to sacrifice crunch for calories.

The Best “Guilt‑Free” Choice: Multigrain Crackers

When the panel turned to healthier options, the Multigrain Crackers (often marketed as “whole grain” or “wheat”) topped the list. With higher fiber content, fewer additives, and a more complex flavor profile, these crackers were praised for their balanced taste and crunch. They’re particularly handy for those who want a snack that aligns with a balanced diet but still offers a satisfying bite.

The Fun Factor: Goldfish

While not a top‑tier gourmet cracker, Goldfish received a special mention for its playful shape and salty, cheesy flavor. Food & Wine admitted that Goldfish are a nostalgic crowd‑pleaser at kids’ parties and casual gatherings. The crackers’ bite‑sized, fun design makes them a go‑to for parties where the audience includes both adults and children.

Hidden Gems: Artisan & Local Options

The tasting panel also spotlighted several lesser‑known artisanal brands that performed exceptionally well. These small‑batch crackers often featured unique flavor combinations (such as rosemary‑infused crackers) and higher quality ingredients. Food & Wine recommends exploring local farmers’ markets or specialty food shops for these hidden gems, as they can offer a more nuanced flavor profile that mainstream brands might miss.

Pairing Tips from Food & Wine

One of the most helpful aspects of the article is the “Pairing Guide.” Food & Wine provides practical advice on how to combine crackers with various foods:

• Cheese Platters – Pair Triscuit or Wheat Thins with aged cheddar, gouda, or blue cheese for an elegant look.
• Dips & Spreads – Ritz works best with creamy dips like hummus, guacamole, or a robust blue‑cheese spread; its butteriness makes it an excellent base.
• Savory Snacks – Goldfish are ideal for a quick, salty snack that can be topped with a dollop of pesto or smoked salmon.
• Low‑Calorie Snacks – Wheat Thins and Multigrain Crackers excel when paired with fresh vegetables or low‑fat dips.

The article also emphasizes that the “best” cracker is often subjective and depends on individual taste preferences. Whether you’re after a light, crunchy bite or a hearty, flavorful cracker, the Food & Wine tasting guide provides a solid starting point.

Takeaway: A Smorgasbord of Cracker Choices

Food & Wine’s “Cracker Taste Test” reminds us that even the most ordinary snack can be an experience. By evaluating crackers across texture, flavor, size, overall enjoyment, and pairing potential, the article provides a well‑rounded guide that can inform anything from a quiet night in to a large gathering. The top picks—Ritz, Triscuit, Wheat Thins, and Multigrain Crackers—represent a spectrum of tastes, from buttery and indulgent to light and healthy. Meanwhile, the article’s emphasis on pairings, portion sizes, and snack etiquette helps readers make the most of their cracker consumption.

So the next time you’re at the grocery store looking for a snack or planning a cheese board, consult this comprehensive taste test. With Food & Wine’s guidance, you’ll never again wonder which cracker will satisfy your craving or complement your spread the best. Happy snacking!