These Cranberry Pecan Cream Cheese Stuffed Celery “Snow Logs” are the kind of festive bites that disappear faster than the holiday rush. Crisp, refreshing celery meets a dreamy blend of sweet cream cheese, tart cranberries, and buttery toasted pecans creating a merry little appetizer that feels indulgent yet wonderfully light. Whether you’re hosting a winter gathering or simply craving a seasonal snack, these snow-kissed logs bring instant cheer 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
- Swap the Nuts: Try walnuts, almonds, or even pistachios for a different crunch and flavor profile. Each nut adds its own unique richness, letting you tailor the recipe to your preferences or what you have on hand.
- Add Citrus Zest: A sprinkle of fresh orange or lemon zest in the cream cheese mixture adds brightness and balances the sweetness, giving the logs a subtle holiday sparkle.
- Make It Savory: Skip the honey and vanilla, then add chopped chives, cracked pepper, or a dash of garlic powder for a more savory spin. This creates a versatile party snack that can fit any flavor theme.
Cooking 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.
Serving Suggestions
- As a Holiday Appetizer: Arrange the snow logs on a festive board with fresh herbs, fruit slices, and nuts for a colorful winter platter that delights guests at first glance.
- Paired with Cheese & Crackers: Serve alongside a cheeseboard to add texture contrast and a refreshing bite between richer options.
- As a Light Snack: Keep a few prepared in the fridge these are perfect for a quick, energizing treat that feels wholesome and satisfying.
Tips
- Chop Mix-Ins Evenly: Keeping cranberries and pecans finely and uniformly chopped helps the filling spread more smoothly and prevents overstuffing the celery.
- Dry the Celery Well: Excess moisture can thin the filling patting the celery dry ensures the cream cheese mixture adheres perfectly.
- Adjust Sweetness: Taste the filling as you mix and tweak the honey as needed. Some cranberries are sweeter than others, so customizing helps balance the flavors.
Prep Time:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 120 kcal
- Protein: Approximately 2–3 g
- Sodium: Approximately 85–120 mg (varies by cream cheese brand)
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes prepare the filling ahead, but fill the celery right before serving to keep them crisp. - What can I use instead of cream cheese?
Neufchâtel or whipped goat cheese works well for a tangier and slightly lighter option. - Can I freeze these?
Freezing isn’t recommended, as celery loses its crunch and the filling texture changes. - How long will leftovers last?
Stored in an airtight container, they stay fresh for up to 2 days, though best enjoyed the same day.
Conclusion
These Cranberry Pecan Cream Cheese Stuffed Celery “Snow Logs” bring together everything we love about holiday treats color, crunch, creaminess, and a festive flair while staying incredibly simple to prepare. Whether you’re setting the stage for a winter feast or just adding a touch of seasonal joy to your snack plate, these delightful nibbles are guaranteed to charm every guest and brighten every table. Enjoy the cheerful crunch!
Print
Cranberry Pecan Cream Cheese Stuffed Celery
- Total Time: 15 minutes (or up to 30 minutes with chilling)
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Cranberry Pecan Cream Cheese Stuffed Celery “Snow Logs” are the kind of festive bites that disappear faster than the holiday rush. Crisp, refreshing celery meets a dreamy blend of sweet cream cheese, tart cranberries, and buttery toasted pecans creating a merry little appetizer that feels indulgent yet wonderfully light. Whether you’re hosting a winter gathering or simply craving a seasonal snack, these snow-kissed logs bring instant cheer 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.
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
Nutrition
- 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
Keywords: cranberry pecan celery, stuffed celery, holiday appetizer, cream cheese snacks, no-cook holiday bites