You know those afternoons when hunger hits hard but you don’t want to derail your healthy eating? That’s exactly when I reach for celery sticks with peanut butter. It’s simple, satisfying, and packed with nutrients that actually keep me full until dinner.
This celery with peanut butter recipe has been my go-to snack for years whether I’m rushing between errands, packing school lunches, or just need something crunchy and creamy at the same time. The best part? It takes about 5 minutes to prepare, costs next to nothing, and delivers real nutrition without any guilt.
If you’re following a keto diet, watching your carbs, or simply trying to eat more whole foods, this snack checks every box. Celery brings vitamins, minerals, and that satisfying crunch. Peanut butter adds protein, healthy fats, and just enough richness to make every bite feel like a treat.
Let me show you how to make this classic snack the right way, along with some creative variations my family loves.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Why Celery and Peanut Butter Go Together So Well
The pairing of celery and peanut butter isn’t just delicious it’s nutritionally smart. Celery is naturally low in calories and carbs, while peanut butter brings protein and healthy fats that help you feel satisfied longer.
When you eat celery with peanut butter, you’re combining fiber, protein, and fat in one simple snack. That trio is exactly what your body needs to curb cravings and maintain steady energy. According to the USDA Food and Nutrition Service, celery is an important source of vitamin C, which supports immune function and overall health.
I’ve noticed that when I snack on celery sticks with peanut butter in the afternoon, I don’t feel hungry again until dinner. That’s because the protein and fat slow down digestion, while the fiber from celery keeps everything moving smoothly.
Plus, this snack works for almost everyone. It’s naturally gluten-free, can be made vegan with almond or sunflower seed butter, and fits perfectly into low-carb and keto meal plans. If you’re looking for other peanut butter recipes, this is a great starting point.
Celery and Peanut Butter Benefits: What Makes This Snack So Healthy?
Let’s talk about what you’re actually getting when you eat this snack. The celery and peanut butter benefits go way beyond just taste.
Celery Nutrition: Light, Fresh, and Full of Vitamins
Celery is one of the most hydrating vegetables you can eat. It’s made up of about 95% water, which means it helps you stay hydrated while adding bulk and crunch to your snack. One medium stalk of celery has only about 6 calories, making it perfect for anyone watching their calorie intake.
But don’t let the low calorie count fool you. Celery is rich in:
Vitamin K: Important for blood clotting and bone health
Vitamin A: Supports eye health and immune function
Vitamin C: Boosts immunity and skin health
Potassium: Helps regulate blood pressure and fluid balance
Folate: Essential for cell growth and metabolism
Fiber: Supports digestion and helps you feel full
The fiber in celery is especially helpful if you’re trying to manage your weight. It fills you up without adding a lot of calories, and it keeps your digestive system happy. If you’re interested in other fiber-rich snacks, check out this chia seed water recipe for another simple, gut-friendly option.
Peanut Butter Nutrition: Protein, Healthy Fats, and Energy
Peanut butter is where this snack gets its staying power. Two tablespoons of peanut butter contain about 8 grams of protein and 16 grams of fat mostly the heart-healthy monounsaturated and polyunsaturated kinds.
That combination of protein and fat is what makes this snack so satisfying. Protein helps repair and build muscle, while healthy fats support brain function, hormone production, and long-lasting energy.
Peanut butter also provides:
Magnesium: Supports muscle and nerve function
Vitamin E: Acts as an antioxidant to protect cells
Niacin (Vitamin B3): Helps convert food into energy
Manganese: Plays a role in metabolism and bone health
I always choose natural peanut butter with just peanuts and maybe a little salt. The versions with added sugar and hydrogenated oils don’t offer the same nutritional value. If you’re curious about other nut-based spreads, pistachio butter is another delicious option with slightly different nutrients.
Celery with Peanut Butter Calories: How Much Are You Really Eating?
One of the questions I get asked most often is: “How many calories are in celery sticks with peanut butter?” It’s a fair question, especially if you’re tracking your intake.
Here’s the breakdown for a typical serving:
2 large celery stalks (about 4 inches each): ~12 calories
2 tablespoons of peanut butter: ~190 calories
Total: ~202 calories
If you add a tablespoon of raisins for sweetness (the classic “ants on a log”), you’ll add about 27 more calories. So the full snack with raisins comes to around 230 calories still very reasonable for a filling, nutrient-dense snack.
For anyone wondering about 2 celery sticks with peanut butter calories, you’re looking at roughly 200-210 calories without toppings. That’s a great range for a midday snack that keeps you satisfied without overdoing it.
And if you’re following a keto or low-carb diet, this snack works beautifully. The celery with peanut butter carbs total is only about 8-10 grams, most of which come from the peanut butter. Celery itself has less than 2 grams of carbs per serving.
Celery and Peanut Butter for Weight Loss: Does It Really Work?
I’ve heard from so many people who say this snack helped them stick to their weight loss goals. And honestly, I’m not surprised. The combination of fiber, protein, and healthy fats makes it one of the most balanced snacks you can eat.
When you eat celery and peanut butter for weight loss, you’re giving your body nutrients that help control hunger hormones. The protein in peanut butter triggers the release of satiety hormones, while the fiber in celery slows digestion and keeps blood sugar levels stable.
This snack also satisfies the need for something crunchy and creamy at the same time. That texture contrast is part of why it feels so satisfying you’re not just eating, you’re experiencing different sensations with every bite.
I’ve found that eating this snack in the afternoon prevents me from raiding the pantry before dinner. It’s easy to prepare, requires no cooking, and travels well in a container or snack bag.
If you’re looking for other satisfying, weight-loss-friendly options, try this gelatin trick recipe or explore bariatric seed tricks for weight loss.
Celery and Peanut Butter Protein: How Much Do You Get?
If you’re trying to increase your protein intake, this snack is a smart choice. The celery and peanut butter protein content is impressive for such a simple snack.
Here’s what you get per serving:
Celery (2 stalks): ~1 gram of protein
Peanut butter (2 tablespoons): ~8 grams of protein
Total protein: ~9 grams
That’s a decent amount of protein for a snack, especially one that takes less than 5 minutes to make. If you’re active, recovering from a workout, or just trying to build or maintain muscle, getting protein throughout the day is key and this snack delivers.
Protein also helps keep your metabolism running efficiently and supports tissue repair. Combined with the vitamins and minerals in celery, this snack offers way more nutritional value than most packaged snack options.
What Is Peanut Butter on Celery Called?
If you grew up eating this snack, you might know it by its cute nickname: “ants on a log.” The name comes from the classic version where you spread peanut butter on celery sticks and top them with raisins. The raisins look like little ants marching along a log.
It’s a fun, kid-friendly name that makes the snack feel playful and approachable. My kids love making their own “ants on a log” after school. They get to practice spreading, counting raisins, and being creative with their food.
But whether you call it ants on a log, celery with peanut butter, or just “the best snack ever,” the appeal is the same. It’s simple, satisfying, and surprisingly versatile.
Celery and Peanut Butter Origin: Where Did This Snack Come From?
The celery and peanut butter origin isn’t tied to one specific moment or person, but the snack became popular in the United States during the early-to-mid 1900s. Peanut butter was gaining traction as an affordable, protein-rich food, and celery was widely available year-round.
The “ants on a log” version with raisins became especially popular in schools and camps during the 1950s and 1960s. It was easy to prepare, required no cooking, and introduced kids to a mix of textures and flavors in a fun way.
Today, celery sticks with peanut butter remain a staple in homes, lunchboxes, and snack trays across the country. It’s one of those timeless snacks that never goes out of style.
How to Make Celery with Peanut Butter Recipe (The Right Way)
Making this snack is incredibly easy, but there are a few tips that make it even better. Here’s how I prepare celery with peanut butter recipe in my kitchen.
Choosing the Best Celery
Fresh celery makes all the difference. Look for celery that’s firm, crisp, and bright green. Avoid bunches with wilted leaves or brown, slimy spots those are signs the celery is past its prime.
The inner stalks (sometimes called celery hearts) tend to be more tender and less fibrous than the outer stalks. I like using a mix of both for variety in texture.
Store celery in the refrigerator in a loosely tied plastic bag. It stays fresh for up to two weeks if stored properly. Don’t wash it until you’re ready to use it, as excess moisture can make it spoil faster.
Preparing Celery Sticks
Wash the celery stalks under cold running water. Use a brush or your fingers to remove any dirt or debris stuck in the ridges.
Trim off the leafy ends and the wide, pale base of each stalk. You want the firm, crunchy middle section that’s where the natural channel for the peanut butter sits.
Cut the celery into 4-inch pieces. This size is perfect for holding while you spread the peanut butter, and it’s easy to eat in just a couple of bites.
Let the celery air dry for a few minutes, or pat it dry with a clean towel. Wet celery makes the peanut butter slide off, so dryness is key.
Choosing the Best Peanut Butter
I always recommend natural peanut butter with minimal ingredients. Look for brands that list only peanuts and maybe a pinch of salt. Avoid versions with added sugar, palm oil, or hydrogenated fats.
Natural peanut butter might separate in the jar, with oil sitting on top. That’s normal. Just stir it well before using, and store it in the fridge to keep it fresh longer.
If you have a peanut allergy, try almond butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter instead. They all work beautifully with celery.
Assembling the Snack
Use a butter knife or small spoon to scoop about 1 tablespoon of peanut butter onto each 4-inch piece of celery. Spread it evenly along the natural groove.
If you’re making ants on a log, press 3-5 raisins gently into the peanut butter on each stick.
Serve immediately, or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a day. After that, the celery can start to lose its crispness.
Creative Toppings for Celery with Peanut Butter
While the classic version is hard to beat, there are so many fun ways to customize this snack. Here are some of my favorite toppings:
Raisins: The classic ants on a log topping sweet, chewy, and kid-approved
Craisins: Dried cranberries add a tart twist
Sliced almonds: Extra crunch and a boost of healthy fats
Chopped walnuts: Rich, earthy flavor and omega-3s
Mini chocolate chips: A little sweetness for when you want a treat
Sunflower seeds: Nutty and crunchy, with a mild flavor
Chia seeds: Adds fiber and a fun texture
Granola: For extra crunch and a hint of honey
Banana slices: Creamy, sweet, and filling
Hemp hearts: Mild flavor with added protein
You can also drizzle a little honey over the top for extra sweetness, or sprinkle cinnamon for a warm, cozy flavor.
Celery with Peanut Butter Recipe (Full Recipe Card)
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Celery with Peanut Butter Recipe: The Perfect 5-Minute Healthy Snack
- Total Time: 3 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
Description
Simple, satisfying celery with peanut butter recipe for a healthy snack. Packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats. Perfect for weight loss, keto, and low-carb diets.
Ingredients
2 large celery stalks (about 4 inches each)
2 tablespoons natural peanut butter
1 tablespoon raisins (optional, for ants on a log)
Instructions
1. Wash celery stalks under cold water and pat dry.
2. Trim off leafy ends and base, then cut into 4-inch pieces.
3. Spread 1 tablespoon of peanut butter along the groove of each celery stick.
4. Press raisins into the peanut butter if desired.
5. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day.
Notes
Use natural peanut butter with no added sugar for best nutrition.
Dry celery well before spreading peanut butter to prevent sliding.
Try almond butter or sunflower seed butter for nut-free options.
Add toppings like chia seeds, granola, or banana slices for variety.
Pair with meals like butternut squash tacos or mushroom poke bowls to boost fullness naturally.
- Prep Time: 3 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Healthy Snacks
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American, Family Comfort
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 celery stick with 1 tbsp peanut butter
- Calories: 101
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 75mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 1.5g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Celery with Peanut Butter Recipe Healthy Tips
If you want to make this snack even healthier, here are some tips I’ve learned over the years.
Choose organic celery when possible. Celery is on the Environmental Working Group’s “Dirty Dozen” list, which means it’s often grown with pesticides. Organic celery reduces your exposure to chemicals.
Watch your portion size. Peanut butter is calorie-dense, so it’s easy to overdo it. Stick to 1-2 tablespoons per serving to keep the calories in check.
Pair it with other snacks. If you’re extra hungry, add a handful of berries, a hard-boiled egg, or some cucumber slices on the side for more volume and nutrients.
Prep ahead for busy days. Wash, cut, and store celery sticks in water in the fridge. They’ll stay crisp for several days. Just dry them off and add peanut butter when you’re ready to eat.
Try different nut butters. Almond butter, cashew butter, and sunflower seed butter all offer slightly different nutrients and flavors. Rotating them keeps the snack interesting.
What Goes with Celery and Peanut Butter?
If you’re wondering what goes with celery and peanut butter, you have plenty of options. This snack pairs well with:
Fresh fruit: Apple slices, grapes, or berries add natural sweetness
Cheese: A few cubes of cheddar or mozzarella add extra protein
Crackers: Whole grain or seed crackers for more crunch
Veggies: Carrot sticks, bell pepper slices, or cherry tomatoes
Nuts: A small handful of almonds or cashews
Hard-boiled eggs: For a more filling, protein-packed snack plate
I also love pairing this snack with a cup of herbal tea or a glass of water with lemon. It makes the whole experience feel more intentional and satisfying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do celery and peanut butter go together?
Yes! Celery and peanut butter are a classic combination. The crisp, mild flavor of celery pairs perfectly with the rich, creamy texture of peanut butter. Together, they create a balanced snack that’s satisfying in both taste and texture.
What’s celery and peanut butter good for?
Celery and peanut butter are great for weight loss, energy, and curbing hunger. The fiber in celery and the protein and healthy fats in peanut butter help keep you full longer. This snack is also low in carbs, making it perfect for keto and low-carb diets.
Why do people eat peanut butter with celery?
People eat peanut butter with celery because it’s quick, healthy, and delicious. The combination provides protein, fiber, and healthy fats in one simple snack. It’s also easy to prepare, portable, and works for kids and adults alike.
Do peanut butter and celery taste good?
Yes, peanut butter and celery taste great together. The crunch of celery balances the creamy richness of peanut butter. The mild flavor of celery lets the peanut butter shine, while the textures create a satisfying contrast that makes every bite enjoyable.
Final Thoughts on Celery with Peanut Butter Recipe
This celery with peanut butter recipe is one of those rare snacks that’s truly perfect. It’s healthy, delicious, easy to make, and works for almost any dietary need. Whether you’re feeding kids, fueling a busy workday, or looking for a late-night snack that won’t wreck your goals, this one delivers.
I’ve made this snack hundreds of times, and it never gets old. The crunch, the creaminess, the simplicity it all just works. And when you add fun toppings like raisins, chocolate chips, or seeds, it feels like a whole new snack every time.
So go ahead grab some celery, spread on that peanut butter, and enjoy a snack that’s as good for your body as it is for your taste buds.
For more healthy snack ideas, check out these air fryer sweet potato cubes, easy egg muffins, or this ginger for weight loss recipe.
