This isn’t an invitation for debate—graham crackers have rightfully earned their role as the classic foundation of s’mores, holding the gooey marshmallow and rich chocolate. That said, exploring alternatives can unveil exciting new taste experiences. This summer, set those grahams aside and consider these delightful substitutes to elevate your s’mores game.

Digestive Biscuits

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These crunchy treats, slightly sweetened and often a bit oaty, represent the British biscuit tradition, distinct from softer, buttery biscuits. Their round shape and moderate sweetness make them ideal for crafting s’mores. Chocolate-covered digestives offer a neat trick—simply add a marshmallow, and you’re all set. While classic McVitite’s are reliable, their oaty counterpart, Hobnobs, deserves a try as well.

Pretzels

Pretzels may present a unique challenge for s’mores due to their holes, but with a bit of care, they can create a delightful balance. Choose either hard or soft pretzels; the salty punch combined with the subtle flavor from the lye wash enhances the overall experience. For a perfect, single-bite s’more, opt for square pretzel snaps.

Crackers

The combination of sweet and salty is often a winner. Given the sugary components of marshmallows and chocolate, a salty variety of cracker can create a delightful contrast. Most crackers will work well, but avoid those that are too dry or flavored, like garlic. Go for options like Ritz or tasty saltines, or even the inviting Kellogg’s Club Crackers.

Croissants

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Croissants have gained popularity on social media as a s’mores foundation, and they indeed provide a unique taste sensation. While their flavor is subtly overshadowed by the dominant chocolate and marshmallow, their flexibility makes them easy to handle, eliminating the risk of cracks and crumbs.

Chips

For those who love a mix of flavors, potato chips are a perfect option, particularly the kettle-cooked variety for their crunch. For an adventurous twist, a salty tortilla chip like Santitas could elevate your s’mores treat. Additionally, many potato chips and corn tortillas also cater to gluten-free diets, which is a definite plus.

Pop-Tarts

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Pop-Tarts deserve special mention for their potential as s’mores ingredients. Their convenient packaging makes them ideal for outdoor adventures or gatherings. They’re sturdy yet tender enough to allow for easy biting without falling apart. The flavor options are abundant; from cherry, which adds a delightful tang, to fun varieties like frosted wild berry and confetti cupcake, there’s a flavor for every palate.

Cookies

Cookies may seem indulgent, but they can drastically enhance the s’more experience by introducing diverse textures and flavors. Choose from classic sugar cookies or chocolate chip, or try creating unique combinations with more whimsical flavors, such as a coconut Shirley paired with a snickerdoodle. The options are endless, allowing creativity to flourish.