Ants on a Log is a fun and healthy snack that’s perfect for kids and adults alike. This classic treat features celery stalks filled with peanut butter and topped with raisins, making it a nutritious option packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins. It’s an easy, quick snack that’s great for after-school, parties, or as a simple treat when you’re craving something both satisfying and wholesome.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
- 3 celery stalks
- 1/4 cup peanut butter
- 1/4 cup raisins
Directions
- Wash and dry the celery stalks. Cut them into smaller pieces if desired for easy snacking.
- Spread the peanut butter into the hollow part of each celery stalk.
- Place raisins on top of the peanut butter, arranging them evenly along the celery.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Nutrients
- Calories: 154
- Total Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 95mg
- Total Carbohydrate: 11g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 7g
- Protein: 4g
- Vitamin A: 4%
- Vitamin C: 7%
- Calcium: 2%
- Iron: 4%
Why Ants on a Log is a Great Snack
Ants on a Log is a highly nutritious snack that combines the best of both savory and sweet flavors. Celery is a low-calorie vegetable that is rich in fiber, which promotes digestion and helps maintain a healthy weight. It is also a source of vitamins A and K, which support eye health and bone health, respectively. The crunchy texture of celery also provides a satisfying contrast to the creaminess of peanut butter and the chewiness of raisins.
Peanut butter is another nutritional powerhouse in this snack. It is an excellent source of protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals like magnesium, potassium, and vitamin E. These healthy fats and protein help keep you feeling full longer and provide a steady energy boost, making Ants on a Log a great snack to fuel the body between meals. The raisins add natural sweetness and provide additional fiber, antioxidants, and important nutrients like iron and potassium.
What makes this snack even more appealing is its versatility. It’s a no-bake, no-cook treat that requires only a few minutes of preparation, making it a perfect option for busy days when you want something quick and nutritious. Plus, it can easily be adapted to suit different dietary preferences or restrictions. If you need a peanut-free alternative, you can swap peanut butter for almond butter, sunflower seed butter, or any other nut or seed butter. You can also change up the toppings by using dried cranberries, sliced bananas, or even chocolate chips.
Health Benefits of Ants on a Log
While many snacks are packed with sugar, preservatives, and artificial ingredients, Ants on a Log is an exception. It’s a healthy, whole food snack that provides a variety of important nutrients. Let’s break down the health benefits of each key ingredient.
Celery
Celery is a great source of fiber, which helps with digestion and keeps you feeling full longer. It’s also high in water content, helping with hydration. Celery is rich in antioxidants, which can help fight inflammation and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. The high vitamin K content supports bone health by aiding in calcium absorption. It’s also low in calories, making it an excellent choice for those watching their calorie intake.
Peanut Butter
Peanut butter, when consumed in moderation, is a great source of healthy fats, protein, and essential vitamins and minerals. The fats in peanut butter are predominantly monounsaturated fats, which can help reduce the risk of heart disease by lowering bad cholesterol levels. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues, making peanut butter an important component of a balanced diet. Additionally, peanut butter contains magnesium, which helps maintain normal muscle and nerve function, as well as potassium, which supports healthy blood pressure levels.
Raisins
Raisins are packed with fiber, which aids in digestion and helps regulate blood sugar levels. The natural sugars in raisins provide a quick energy boost, making them a great choice for an afternoon snack or before physical activity. Raisins are also a good source of iron, an essential mineral that helps prevent anemia by supporting the production of red blood cells. They also contain potassium, which helps with muscle function and maintaining proper fluid balance in the body.
Combined Benefits
The combination of celery, peanut butter, and raisins creates a well-rounded snack that offers both quick energy and lasting satiety. This snack is ideal for kids and adults alike, offering a healthy balance of carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats. It’s a great way to satisfy hunger without resorting to processed, sugary snacks.
Creative Variations of Ants on a Log
While the classic Ants on a Log recipe is delicious on its own, there are many ways to add your personal touch and make this snack even more exciting. Here are some creative variations:
Nut Butter Options
If you or your kids have nut allergies, you can easily substitute peanut butter with other nut butters like almond butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter. These alternatives still provide the same creamy texture and healthy fats, but they may have slightly different flavors that can add a unique twist to the traditional snack.
Fruit Toppings
While raisins are the traditional topping, you can experiment with other dried fruits or even fresh fruits. Try dried cranberries, cherries, or apricots for a tart flavor that complements the sweetness of the peanut butter. You can also use fresh fruit like sliced strawberries, banana slices, or blueberries to add a burst of color and fresh flavor.
Chocolate Chip Ants
For those who love a little sweetness, adding a few mini chocolate chips or dark chocolate chunks can turn Ants on a Log into a more indulgent treat. The chocolate adds a delicious contrast to the savory peanut butter and can be a fun way to entice kids to eat more fruits and vegetables.
Yogurt Drizzle
For an extra creamy touch, drizzle some Greek yogurt or honey yogurt on top of your Ants on a Log. The yogurt adds protein and a tangy flavor that balances the sweetness of the raisins and peanut butter.
Cinnamon Spice
Sprinkle a dash of cinnamon or pumpkin spice on top of your Ants on a Log for a warm, comforting flavor. This variation works especially well during the fall season when you want to embrace the cozy flavors of autumn.
Serving Suggestions
Ants on a Log is an easy snack to make and serve, but it also works well as part of a larger spread. You can serve it at birthday parties, picnics, or as a quick after-school snack. Pair it with other healthy snacks like apple slices with almond butter or whole-grain crackers for a balanced snack plate. Ants on a Log is also a great addition to a packed lunch for kids, providing a good balance of protein, fiber, and healthy fats.
If you’re hosting a gathering, you can set up a DIY Ants on a Log station with a variety of nut butters, dried fruits, and toppings. This allows guests to customize their own versions of the snack and adds an interactive element to your event.
Conclusion
Ants on a Log is a timeless snack that combines simplicity, nutrition, and creativity. It’s a snack that both kids and adults can enjoy, and its versatility allows for endless variations.