Classic Celery & Peanut Butter Sticks
Crisp, refreshing celery stalks filled with creamy peanut butter make the ultimate no-cook snack. Ready in just five minutes, this American classic delivers the perfect balance of crunchy and smooth in every bite. A nostalgic favorite that both kids and adults reach for time and time again.
For 4 servings
- prep · ~2 min
Prepare the celery stalks.
1.Wash 6 large celery stalks under cool running water and pat completely dry.2.Trim off the leafy top ends and the tough white base of each stalk.3.Cut each stalk crosswise in half so you have 12 shorter pieces, roughly 3 to 4 inches long.TIPDry the celery well so the peanut butter sticks and doesn't slide off. - assemble · ~2 min
Fill the celery sticks with peanut butter.
1.Spoon about ½ tablespoon of peanut butter into the hollow channel of each celery piece.2.Use the back of the spoon or a small spatula to smooth the peanut butter flush with the edges.3.Repeat until all 12 pieces are evenly filled.TIPLet the peanut butter come to room temperature for easier spreading. - serve
Arrange on a plate and serve immediately.
Place the filled celery sticks on a serving plate in a single layer. Serve right away for maximum crunch, or cover and refrigerate for up to 4 hours.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For maximum crunch, soak celery stalks in ice water for 10 minutes before drying and filling.
- 2Use a vegetable peeler to lightly shave the rounded back of each stalk so it sits flat on the plate.
- 3Let peanut butter come to room temperature for a smooth, drag-free spread.
- 4Fill only as many sticks as you'll eat — filled celery gets soggy after several hours.
- 5If the peanut butter is too thick, stir in 1 teaspoon of warm water or honey to loosen it.
- 6For a tidier look, pipe the peanut butter from a zip-top bag with a corner snipped off.
Adapt it for your goals.
Trail Mix Crunch
Sprinkle the peanut butter with mini chocolate chips, crushed pretzels, and a few raisins for a sweet-salty-crunchy twist that turns a simple snack into a mini dessert.
Savory Everything BagelSavory Everything Bagel
Swap creamy peanut butter for a savory sunflower seed butter or tahini, then top with everything bagel seasoning for a grown-up, umami-packed version.
Protein PowerProtein Power
Use a high-protein peanut butter powder mixed with water (or Greek yogurt) to reduce fat while boosting protein, ideal for post-workout refueling.
Cinnamon HoneyCinnamon Honey
Stir ¼ teaspoon of ground cinnamon and 1 teaspoon of honey into the peanut butter before filling for a warm, gently sweet variation that tastes like a healthier dessert.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Healthy Fats
Peanut butter provides monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats that support heart health and help keep you full between meals.
Good Source of Fiber
Celery contributes dietary fiber, and peanut butter adds a small amount more, aiding digestion and promoting satiety.
Hydrating Crunch
Celery is about 95% water, making this snack an excellent way to increase daily fluid intake while enjoying a satisfying crunch.
Plant-Based Protein
Each tablespoon of peanut butter offers roughly 3.5 to 4 grams of protein, making these sticks a convenient plant-based protein boost.
Frequently asked questions
The celery must be bone-dry after washing — any moisture creates a slippery barrier. Pat thoroughly with a towel, or let the stalks air-dry on a rack for 5 minutes.
