Save I used to pack these for myself during afternoon study sessions in college, back when I thought snacking meant opening a bag of chips. One bite of that cool, watery crunch paired with creamy peanut butter and I was hooked. It became my go-to when I needed something that felt indulgent but didn't wreck my energy. Now I keep celery and peanut butter stocked at all times, just in case.
I started making these for my niece during her picky eating phase, and she named them crunchy boats. She'd line up the celery pieces on her plate like they were sailing somewhere important. That small ritual turned a plain snack into something she actually asked for, and I realized how much a little presentation could change the whole experience.
Ingredients
- Celery stalks: Look for firm, pale green stalks with tight leaves. The fresher they are, the louder the crunch, which is half the fun.
- Peanut butter: Creamy spreads easiest, but chunky adds texture. I keep both around depending on my mood.
- Raisins: These turn the snack into ants on a log, a name that makes kids giggle and adults nostalgic.
- Chopped roasted peanuts: A sprinkle on top gives you a double hit of peanut flavor and a little extra bite.
Instructions
- Prep the celery:
- Rinse each stalk under cold water and pat dry with a towel. Trim the ends and slice into three-inch pieces so they're easy to hold and eat without making a mess.
- Fill with peanut butter:
- Use a spoon or small spatula to spread peanut butter into the natural groove of each piece. Don't be shy, a generous swipe makes all the difference.
- Add toppings:
- Press raisins gently into the peanut butter, or scatter chopped peanuts across the top. You can skip this step entirely if you prefer it plain.
- Serve:
- Arrange the filled celery on a plate and serve right away. They taste best when the celery is still cold and crisp.
Save One afternoon I brought a platter of these to a potluck, half joking, and they vanished faster than the fancy dips. Someone told me it reminded them of elementary school, and suddenly everyone was talking about their childhood snacks. It turns out the simplest things can unlock the best conversations.
Variations Worth Trying
Swap peanut butter for almond or cashew butter if you want a milder flavor. Sunflower seed butter works beautifully for nut-free households. I've even tried cream cheese with a drizzle of honey, which was lighter and just as good.
Storing and Serving
These don't store well once assembled, but you can prep the celery pieces ahead and keep them in a container of cold water in the fridge. Pat them dry before filling. If you're packing them for later, keep the peanut butter separate and spread it right before eating.
What to Pair It With
They're perfect alongside a handful of crackers, a piece of fruit, or even a small bowl of soup for a light lunch. I like them with apple slices on the side, the sweetness plays nicely with the salty peanut butter.
- Try topping with mini chocolate chips for a sweet twist that feels like dessert.
- Dried cranberries or blueberries add a tart pop that balances the richness.
- A sprinkle of cinnamon or a drizzle of honey can elevate the whole thing without much effort.
Save This snack has been around forever for a reason. It's easy, it's honest, and it never lets you down.
Common Questions
- → What are the main ingredients in this snack?
The snack combines fresh celery stalks with creamy peanut butter. Optional toppings include raisins and chopped roasted peanuts.
- → Can this snack be made nut-free?
Yes, substitute peanut butter with sunflower seed butter to avoid nuts while maintaining creaminess.
- → How should the celery be prepared?
Wash and dry celery stalks, trim ends, and cut into 3-inch pieces before filling them with peanut butter.
- → Are there any serving suggestions?
Serve immediately or chilled for extra crunch. Add raisins or chopped peanuts on top for added flavor and texture.
- → Is this snack suitable for special diets?
Yes, it fits vegetarian and gluten-free dietary preferences and can be adapted for nut-free diets as well.