Cream Cheese Celery Sticks
Crisp, refreshing celery sticks filled with a smooth and creamy cream cheese spread. This classic American appetizer is ready in minutes, offering a satisfying crunch and a mild, tangy flavor. An easy, no-cook snack that is perfect for parties, lunch boxes, or a quick, guilt-free bite.
For 4 servings
- prep · ~2 min
Prepare the celery stalks.
1.Wash 6 large celery stalks thoroughly under cold water and pat completely dry.2.Trim the root end and leafy top, then cut each stalk crosswise into 3 equal pieces, about 3-4 inches long. - mix · ~2 min
Make the seasoned cream cheese filling.
1.In a medium bowl, add the softened cream cheese.2.Add lemon juice, garlic powder, a pinch of salt, and a pinch of black pepper.3.Whip with a rubber spatula or fork until smooth, fluffy, and well combined.TIPMake sure the cream cheese is properly softened to avoid lumps in the filling. - assemble · ~3 min
Fill the celery sticks.
1.Using a small spoon or butter knife, scoop a generous amount of the cream cheese mixture.2.Fill the hollow channel of each celery piece, pressing gently to fill it completely.3.Smooth the top so the filling is flush with the edges of the celery. - garnish · ~1 min
Garnish and serve.
1.Arrange the filled celery sticks on a serving platter.2.Dust the tops very lightly with a pinch of paprika for a hint of color.3.Serve immediately or refrigerate for 15 minutes to firm up for a colder, crisper bite.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Pat the celery completely dry after washing so the filling sticks better.
- 2Use cream cheese that has been at room temperature for 30 minutes to avoid lumps.
- 3For extra crunch, soak cut celery pieces in ice water for 10 minutes, then dry well.
- 4Fill the celery just before serving to keep the stalks crisp.
- 5Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day, but expect softer celery.
- 6Run a small spatula along the filling to create a smooth, even top for a neat presentation.
Adapt it for your goals.
Herbed
Fold in 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh chives, dill, or parsley into the cream cheese for a garden-fresh twist.
spicySpicy
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the cream cheese mixture for a kick of heat.
high proteinHigh-protein
Mix in 2 tablespoons of crumbled cooked bacon or finely diced ham for a savory, protein-packed snack.
veganVegan
Substitute the cream cheese with a plant-based cream cheese alternative and use lemon juice from a fresh lemon, omitting any dairy.
everything bagelEverything-bagel
Top the filled celery sticks with a sprinkle of everything bagel seasoning for a trendy, salty-crunchy finish.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Low-Calorie Crunch Base
Celery is very low in calories and high in water content, making these sticks a hydrating, guilt-free snack.
Good Source of Vitamin K
Celery provides vitamin K, which supports bone health and normal blood clotting.
Contains Probiotic-Friendly Fats
Cream cheese offers a small amount of fat that helps absorb fat-soluble vitamins from the celery and any added herbs.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can fill them up to 4 hours ahead and refrigerate, but for best crunch, assemble just before serving.
