There’s a reason this humble little celery log has outlived food fads, artisanal hors d’oeuvres, and kale-everything: Grandma’s Stuffed Celery is simple, satisfying, and weirdly addictive.
Crisp, cool celery filled with a rich, herby cream cheese mixture—often dotted with chopped olives, nuts, or bacon—this classic appetizer has been a staple at holiday dinners, church socials, family reunions, and potlucks for decades. It’s the kind of snack people don’t think about… until they see it on a platter and suddenly remember just how good it is.
The best part?
It takes 10 minutes, requires zero cooking, and uses five affordable ingredients you probably already have.
Let’s bring this charming vintage favorite back—because some traditions are just too good to let fade.
⭐ Why You’ll Love This Retro Appetizer
- Ready in 10 minutes—no oven, no stovetop
- Only 5 core ingredients
- Naturally gluten-free
- Nut-free option (just skip the walnuts)
- Vegetarian-friendly
- Perfect for holidays, brunch boards, potlucks, or everyday snacking
This is the kind of recipe that delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort.
🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need
- 4–5 large celery stalks, washed and cut into 3–4 inch sticks
- 8 oz (1 block) full-fat cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup finely chopped green olives or pimiento-stuffed olives
- 2 tbsp finely chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- 1 tbsp finely chopped fresh parsley or chives
- ¼ tsp garlic powder (optional but recommended)
- Pinch of black pepper
🌿 Pro Tip: Want true vintage vibes? Use canned pimiento-stuffed olives—the classic flavor combo!
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Celery
Wash and trim your celery stalks.
Cut into 3–4 inch logs.
For clean, easy stuffing, use a melon baller or small spoon to gently scrape the inner strings and widen the groove.
Pat dry—moisture will thin the filling.
2. Make the Filling
In a bowl, beat the softened cream cheese for 1–2 minutes until smooth and fluffy.
Stir in:
- olives
- walnuts (if using)
- parsley
- garlic powder
- black pepper
Don’t overmix—you want flecks of color and texture throughout.
3. Stuff & Chill
Using a small spoon or piping bag, fill the celery channels generously, slightly mounding on top.
Cover and refrigerate 30 minutes or up to 24 hours.
Chilling helps the flavors meld and firms up the filling for clean slicing.
4. Serve with Style
Place the stuffed celery neatly on a platter, vintage tray, or wooden board.
For a pretty finish:
- dust lightly with paprika
- sprinkle with fresh herbs
- or cut into bite-sized pieces
🥬 Pro move: Insert toothpicks for party-friendly snacking.
💡 Tips for Perfect Stuffed Celery
- Use crisp, fresh celery—floppy stalks won’t hold the filling.
- Soften your cream cheese—cold = lumpy.
- Drain olives well to avoid watery filling.
- Prep ahead—this appetizer is actually better after chilling.
- Always make extra—these disappear fast.
Delicious Variations
🥓 Bacon Lover’s
Add 2 tbsp finely crumbled cooked bacon.
🧂 Everything Bagel
Mix in 1 tsp everything bagel seasoning.
🌶️ Spicy Kick
Add diced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne.
🌱 Veggie-Forward
Swap olives for roasted red peppers.
🌿 Dairy-Free
Use plant-based cream cheese (Kite Hill is great).
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
- Holiday platters with deviled eggs, pickles, and cheese
- Brunch boards with smoked salmon and capers
- Lunchbox snack for a crunchy, low-carb treat
- Retro cocktail hour with martinis or sparkling cider
This simple appetizer fits in everywhere.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
A: You can, but the texture will be softer. Full-fat holds its shape best.
Q: How long does it last?
A: Up to 24 hours in the fridge. After that, the celery loses its crunch.
Q: Can I freeze it?
A: No—cream cheese and celery both thaw poorly.
Q: Is this the same as “Ants on a Log”?
A: That version uses peanut butter and raisins.
This recipe is its elegant, savory grown-up cousin!
💛 Final Thoughts
Grandma’s Stuffed Celery isn’t fancy—but that’s exactly the charm.
It’s nostalgic.
It’s crunchy, creamy, salty, herby.
It’s simple enough for a weekday snack and classic enough for a holiday table.
