Crackers remain one of the most-important segments in baked snacks. But growth has stagnated in recent years. To drive sales, manufacturers are doing exciting things with flavors and other ingredients to meet culinary- and health-driven consumer demands.

Cheetos. Lay's. Ruffles. Doritos. These are the brands so familiar to nearly every American. They read off like a list of celebrities. They're household words. And they instantly convey a flavor profile, an aroma, a signature texture-likely even childhood memories.

Doughnuts now run the gamut from sweet to savory, and there are no flavor combinations that are off limits: you might see a Fruity Pebbles doughnut, and maple bacon has become commonplace. And growth continues.