Cranberry Pecan Cream Cheese Stuffed Celery Snow Logs are a festive and creative way to enjoy a fresh, crunchy snack that’s perfect for parties or cozy family gatherings. This delightful recipe combines the crispness of celery with a creamy filling made from velvety cream cheese, chewy dried cranberries, and crunchy pecans. Not only is it easy to assemble, but it also showcases seasonal flavors that will impress your guests.

Why you’ll love this dish

There are countless reasons to whip up Cranberry Pecan Cream Cheese Stuffed Celery Snow Logs in your kitchen. For starters, it’s a quick and budget-friendly recipe that packs a flavor punch without demanding too much time or effort. This snack makes a charming addition to any holiday table and is an excellent choice for Christmas gatherings or New Year’s celebrations. Plus, it’s kid-approved! The combination of textures and flavors makes these tasty logs fun for everyone.

“These snow logs are a holiday hit! My kids loved helping to fill the celery, and they disappeared quickly at our party!” – Lisa M., a satisfied home cook.

Preparing Cranberry Pecan Cream Cheese Stuffed Celery Snow Logs

Creating this dish is simple and enjoyable. The process involves just a few straightforward steps, ensuring you won’t be spending hours in the kitchen. You’ll wash and cut the celery, mix up the creamy filling, and then fill each celery stalk. In no time, you’ll have a platter full of delicious, colorful snacks ready to impress.

What you’ll need

To make these delightful snacks, gather the following key ingredients:

8 celery stalks
8 ounces of cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped
1/2 cup pecans, chopped

For substitutions, feel free to use low-fat cream cheese if you’re looking for a lighter option. Additionally, walnuts can be swapped for pecans for a different nutty flavor, or you can try using sun-dried tomatoes for a savory touch.

Step-by-step instructions

Start by washing the celery stalks and cutting them into your desired lengths.
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, chopped dried cranberries, and chopped pecans.
Mix all the ingredients together until well blended.
Carefully fill each celery stalk with the cream cheese mixture.
Arrange the stuffed celery on a platter and serve as a festive snack.

Best ways to enjoy it

When it comes to serving these delightful logs, you can get creative. Arrange them on a colorful platter and garnish with festive herbs like parsley or rosemary for a pop of color. They pair wonderfully with other holiday finger foods—consider serving alongside cheese platters or alongside a selection of crackers. For a whimsical touch, label each dish with a fun name signifying the wintery theme!

How to store & freeze

If you have any leftovers (though they’re sure to go fast!), store the stuffed celery logs in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should remain fresh for about 2 days. It’s best to keep the filling separate from the celery if possible, as the celery can become soft over time. For longer storage, you can freeze the cream cheese mixture (not the celery) for up to a month, but always be sure to allow it to come to room temperature before using it again.

Helpful cooking tips

To elevate your culinary experience, consider these pro tips:

Use flavored cream cheese for an extra twist—herbed varieties can add an elegant touch.
Let the cream cheese sit out for about 15-20 minutes before mixing to soften it more easily.
If you want to make these ahead of time, prepare the filling a day in advance and simply stuff the celery stalks right before serving.

Creative twists

If you’re looking to customize this recipe, get adventurous! Swap out the dried cranberries for raisins or chopped apples for a different flavor profile. You can also sprinkle in some cinnamon or nutmeg into the cream cheese mixture to enhance the seasonal taste. This recipe is versatile, and experimenting with various ingredients can yield delightful surprises!

FAQs

Can I make these stuffed celery logs ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the cream cheese filling a day prior. However, it’s best to stuff the celery sticks just before serving to maintain their crunch.

What substitutions can I use for the nuts?

If you’re allergic to pecans or walnuts, you can opt for sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for crunch. They add a delightful texture while being nut-free.

How long can I store leftovers?

You can store leftover stuffed celery logs in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To keep the celery crisp and fresh, consider keeping the stuffing separate until serving.