Hey there, friends! If you’re anything like me, you’re always on the lookout for simple, yet delightful snacks that bring a little joy to family gatherings or even just a cozy afternoon at home. Cranberry Pecan Cream Cheese Stuffed Celery is that perfect blend of creamy, crunchy, and sweet that makes you feel like you’re wrapped in a warm hug. This recipe is one of those gems that can easily become a family favorite — it’s quick to assemble and packed with flavors that everyone, from kids to grandparents, will enjoy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe requires no cooking, just mixing, and assembling. Perfect for those busy days when you need a quick appetizer or snack.
- Family-Friendly: With its creamy and slightly sweet filling, even the pickiest eaters will be tempted to try these crunchy bites.
- Nutritious Snack: Packed with healthy fats from pecans, protein from cream cheese, and a hint of natural sweetness from cranberries, these stuffed celery sticks are a guilt-free indulgence.
- Versatile: Whether you’re preparing for a holiday appetizer or a casual snack, this dish fits right in. Plus, you can make it ahead of time!
- Visually Appealing: The vibrant colors of the celery and cranberry mix make for a beautiful presentation that will brighten any table.
The Recipe
Ingredients
- 8 celery stalks
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped
- 1/2 cup pecans, toasted and chopped
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
- Salt to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Celery: Wash the celery stalks thoroughly and cut them into 3–4 inch pieces. Pat dry and set aside.
- Mix the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, chopped cranberries, toasted pecans, honey, vanilla, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Mix until velvety and evenly blended.
- Stuff the Celery: Using a butter knife or small spatula, generously fill each celery piece with the cream cheese mixture.
- Arrange and Garnish: Arrange the stuffed celery “snow logs” on a platter. Add parsley garnish if you’d like a touch of color.
- Serve or Store: Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to enjoy.
Notes:
- Softening the Cream Cheese: Allowing the cream cheese to come to room temperature ensures it blends smoothly with the mix-ins, preventing lumps.
- Roasting the Pecans: Toasting the pecans deepens their flavor and adds a fragrant warmth that elevates every bite.
- Prepping Ahead: You can mix the filling up to a day ahead, store it covered in the refrigerator, and fill the celery just before serving for the best crunch.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Appetizer / Snack
Method: No-cook, hand-mixed
Cuisine: American / Holiday
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
- Mixing bowl
- Butter knife or small spatula
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
The Benefits of Each Ingredient
- Celery: Provides a refreshing crunch and is a low-calorie vehicle for the delicious filling.
- Cream Cheese: Offers a creamy texture and a mild flavor that complements the sweetness of the cranberries and honey.
- Dried Cranberries: Bring a natural sweetness and a pop of color, perfect for holiday-themed snacks.
- Pecans: Add a nutty flavor and a satisfying crunch that pairs beautifully with the cream cheese.
- Honey: Sweetens the filling naturally, balancing out the tartness of the cranberries.
- Vanilla Extract: Enhances the sweetness with a warm, aromatic depth.
- Cinnamon: Adds a hint of spice that ties all the flavors together.
What to Serve With This Dish
These cranberry pecan cream cheese stuffed celery sticks are perfect on their own, but if you’re looking to create a spread, consider pairing them with:
- My Classic Deviled Eggs for a creamy, savory contrast.
- Homemade Hummus for a protein-packed dip option.
- A selection of fresh seasonal fruits for a refreshing addition.
- A variety of cheeses and crackers for a complete appetizer platter.
Storage & Leftover Tips
If you have leftovers, these stuffed celery sticks can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To keep the celery crisp, it’s best to store the filling and celery separately and assemble them just before serving. This way, you maintain that delightful crunch that makes this dish so appealing.
Nutritional Info:
Serving Size: 1 stuffed celery piece
Calories: ~120 kcal
Sugar: ~8 g
Sodium: ~85–120 mg
Fat: ~9 g
Saturated Fat: ~3.5 g
Unsaturated Fat: ~5 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: ~10–12 g
Fiber: ~1 g
Protein: ~2–3 g
Cholesterol: ~15–20 mg
This recipe is a wonderful reminder of how food can bring us together, spark conversations, and create memories. Whether you’re making these for a family gathering or a quiet afternoon at home, I hope you enjoy every bite as much as my family does. Remember, the best recipes are those shared with love. Happy cooking, and don’t hesitate to reach out if you need any more tips or have questions about this recipe!
Cranberry Pecan Cream Cheese Stuffed Celery
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Wash the celery stalks thoroughly and cut them into 3–4 inch pieces. Pat dry and set aside.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, chopped cranberries, toasted pecans, honey, vanilla, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Mix until velvety and evenly blended.
- Using a butter knife or small spatula, generously fill each celery piece with the cream cheese mixture.
- Arrange the stuffed celery “snow logs” on a platter. Add parsley garnish if you’d like a touch of color.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to enjoy.