Ants on a Log
A classic, no-cook kids' snack that's crunchy, creamy, and sweet. Crisp celery sticks are filled with smooth peanut butter and dotted with raisin 'ants' for a fun and healthy treat ready in minutes.
For 4 servings
4 steps.
- 1
Prepare the Celery: Wash the celery stalks thoroughly under cool running water
- a.Pat them completely dry with a paper towel. Trim off the leafy tops and the tough white base of each stalk.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Cut the 'Logs': Cut each celery stalk into 3 equal pieces, approximately 3 to 4 inches long. These will be your 'logs'.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Fill the Logs: Using a small spoon or a butter knife, scoop about 1 to 1.5 teaspoons of peanut butter and spread it evenly into the curved groove of each celery piece.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Add the 'Ants': Arrange 3-5 raisins in a single file line on top of the peanut butter on each log. Serve immediately for the best crunchy texture.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For extra crisp celery, soak the cut stalks in a bowl of ice water for 15-20 minutes before patting them dry.
- 2If your peanut butter is too stiff, stir it for a minute in a bowl to soften it for easier spreading.
- 3Use a piping bag (or a zip-top bag with a corner snipped off) to fill the celery logs cleanly and quickly.
- 4Get the kids involved! Let them place the raisin 'ants' on the logs to make snack time fun and interactive.
- 5Ensure celery is completely dry before adding peanut butter; this helps the peanut butter adhere properly.
Adapt it for your goals.
Different 'Glue'
For a peanut-free version, use sunflower seed butter, almond butter, cream cheese, or even hummus for a savory twist.
Different 'Ants'Different 'Ants'
Swap the raisins for other 'bugs' like dried cranberries, chocolate chips, pomegranate seeds, or blueberries.
Different 'Logs'Different 'Logs'
Instead of celery, use crisp apple slices, carrot sticks, or hollowed-out mini cucumbers as the base.
Savory Ants on a LogSavory Ants on a Log
Use cream cheese or hummus as the filling and top with black olive slices or capers instead of raisins.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Balanced Macronutrients
This snack offers a great combination of carbohydrates for energy (raisins), healthy fats for brain function (peanut butter), and protein for satiety, keeping you full and energized.
High in Fiber
Celery is an excellent source of dietary fiber and has a high water content, which aids in digestion, promotes gut health, and contributes to hydration.
Heart-Healthy Fats
Peanut butter is rich in monounsaturated fats, which are known to support heart health by helping to reduce bad cholesterol (LDL) levels in the blood.
Frequently asked questions
One serving of Ants on a Log (about 3 pieces) contains approximately 220-240 calories, depending on the amount of peanut butter used and the type of raisins.