Are you looking for a quick, healthy, and fun snack that will get your kids excited about eating their fruits and veggies? Look no further! Ants on a Log is a classic snack that's both delicious and nutritious, and with a little candy twist, it becomes even more appealing to little ones. This easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, school lunches, or even a fun weekend activity. It's a fantastic way to sneak in some extra fruits and vegetables, making it a guilt-free treat for the whole family. Let's get started!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup Celery sticks, washed and thoroughly dried
- 1/2 cup Peanut butter (or any nut butter alternative like sunflower seed butter for allergy considerations)
- 1/2 cup Raisins
- 1/4 cup Mini chocolate chips (or other small candies like sprinkles)
Instructions:
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Prepare the Celery: Wash the celery stalks thoroughly and pat them dry with a paper towel. Cut them into approximately 4-inch lengths. Make sure to remove any stringy bits for easier eating.
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Fill the Celery: Using a butter knife or spoon, spread a generous amount of peanut butter evenly inside each celery stick. Don't overfill; you want enough room for the "ants."
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Add the Ants: Arrange the raisins along the peanut butter, mimicking a line of ants marching.
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The Candy Touch: Sprinkle mini chocolate chips or your chosen candy on top of the raisins for an extra burst of sweetness and fun!
Tips for Success:
- Choose fresh celery: Crisp celery makes the snack more enjoyable. Avoid using limp or wilted celery.
- Adjust the peanut butter: If you prefer a less intense peanut butter flavor, use a thinner layer.
- Get creative with toppings: Don't limit yourself to raisins and chocolate chips! Experiment with other toppings like chopped nuts, dried cranberries, or different types of candy.
Variations:
- Fruity Ants: Replace raisins with other dried fruits like chopped apricots or cranberries for a different flavor profile.
- Sweet and Savory: Add a sprinkle of everything bagel seasoning along with the raisins and chocolate chips for a fun twist.
- Nut-Free Option: Substitute sunflower seed butter or another nut-free alternative for children with allergies. Always double-check ingredient labels to ensure they are allergy-friendly.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving - approximate, varies based on ingredients):
- Calories: Approximately 100-150 calories
- Protein: Around 4-6 grams
- Fiber: About 2-3 grams
This nutritious snack is packed with fiber from the celery and healthy fats from the peanut butter, making it a great addition to any child's diet. The natural sweetness from the raisins and the added candy provides a satisfying treat without the guilt. It's a perfect example of a healthy and delicious homemade snack that kids will love. Making this snack is a great way to get children involved in the kitchen and teach them about healthy eating habits. Enjoy!