Cracker crumbs for breading
Cracker crumbs for breading are finely crushed crackers, typically saltines or butter crackers, used as a crispy coating for fried or baked foods like chicken, fish, or vegetables. They are a simple, pantry-staple alternative to breadcrumbs, originating in American home cooking for their convenience and satisfying crunch.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
This coating is high in carbohydrates from refined flour and often contains a moderate amount of fat from added oils or shortening in the crackers. It provides a quick source of energy and some B vitamins, with a typical 1/4 cup serving containing roughly 110-130 calories.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 120 kcal |
| Protein | 2 g |
| Carbs | 16 g |
| Fat | 5 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sugar | 2 g |
| Sodium | 210 mg |
| Iron | 1.2 mg |
| Thiamin (B1) | 0.2 mg |
| Niacin (B3) | 1.8 mg |
| Folate | 30 mcg |
| Selenium | 5 mcg |
| Phosphorus | 35 mg |
| Magnesium | 6 mg |
| Manganese | 0.2 mg |
Per 1/4 cup (about 28 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
Using crackers for breading is a classic example of culinary resourcefulness, transforming a common snack into a functional cooking ingredient. Nutritionally, it offers a different texture and flavor profile than standard breadcrumbs, often being lighter and more buttery.
