Welcome to this delightful and festive recipe for Cranberry Pecan Cream Cheese Stuffed Celery “Snow Logs”. This appetizer beautifully balances creamy, sweet, and savory flavors, making it perfect for holiday gatherings or any special occasion. With minimal prep and no cooking required, it’s an easy yet impressive addition to any table.
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
- 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.
Variation
- Add a touch of zest by including a bit of orange zest in the cream cheese mixture.
- Substitute walnuts for pecans for a different nuttiness.
- Incorporate a dash of cayenne for a spicy kick.
Cooking Notes
- Ensure that the cream cheese is properly softened for easy mixing.
- Feel free to adjust the honey for sweetness according to your taste.
- Using freshly toasted pecans enhances the overall flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve these logs chilled for a refreshing appetizer.
- Pair with a glass of white wine for a delightful combination.
- Use as a unique spread for crackers or biscuits.
Tips
- Use a piping bag for a more professional look when filling the celery.
- Ensure that the celery is thoroughly dried to prevent the mixture from slipping off.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.
Prep Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 120
- Protein: 2g
- Sodium: 80mg
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, prepare the filling a day ahead and fill the celery just before serving. - What can I use as a substitute for dried cranberries?
Chopped dried apricots or raisins can be used as alternatives. - Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
Use a vegan cream cheese and replace honey with maple syrup or agave. - How do I store leftovers?
Place in an airtight container and refrigerate.
Conclusion
These Cranberry Pecan Cream Cheese Stuffed Celery “Snow Logs” offer a harmonic blend of textures and flavors a creamy, sweet, and nutty delight cradled within crisp celery. Simple yet sophisticated, they make for an excellent appetizer or snack, leaving a memorable impression on your guests with their festive look and tantalizing taste.
