Looking for a quick, budget-friendly appetizer to wow your holiday guests? Cream cheese celery sticks are a classic recipe that’s both festive and delicious. With crisp celery, creamy filling, and the salty pop of pimento-stuffed olives, this appetizer is perfect for Christmas parties, potlucks, or even a simple snack.
Why You’ll Love Cream Cheese Celery Sticks
- Simple Ingredients: You likely already have everything you need in your fridge and pantry.
- Quick to Prepare: This recipe takes just 10 minutes, making it ideal for busy holiday schedules.
- Festive Flair: The green celery and red pimentos make these cream cheese celery sticks a natural choice for holiday spreads.
- Low-Carb Option: A great alternative to crackers or chips without sacrificing flavor.
Ingredients for Cream Cheese Celery Sticks
You’ll only need a few staples to create this delicious and festive appetizer:
- Celery Stalks: The crunchier, the better!
- Cream Cheese (8 oz): Softened for easy mixing.
- Pimento-Stuffed Green Olives (1/2 cup): Finely chopped to distribute their salty, tangy flavor.
- Garlic Powder (1 tsp): Or substitute with freshly minced garlic for extra zing.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste.
How to Make Cream Cheese Celery Sticks
- Prep the Olives: Chop your pimento-stuffed green olives into small pieces for even distribution in the cream cheese mixture.
- Mix the Filling: Combine softened cream cheese, chopped olives, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Mix until smooth and creamy.
- Prepare the Celery: Wash and cut celery stalks into serving-sized sticks.
- Assemble: Use a spoon or piping bag to fill each celery stick with the cream cheese mixture.
- Serve: Arrange the cream cheese celery sticks on a festive platter (red plates are a great choice!) and serve immediately, or chill until ready to enjoy.
Pro Tips for Perfect Cream Cheese Celery Sticks
- Make It Festive: Garnish your platter with rosemary sprigs to give the presentation a holiday vibe.
- Versatile Filling: Leftover filling works wonderfully as a dip for crackers or a spread for bagels.
- Customize the Flavor: Experiment with different mix-ins like chopped bacon, dried cranberries, or even a drizzle of hot honey for a unique twist.
Why Cream Cheese Celery Sticks Are Perfect for the Holidays
This simple recipe combines convenience and charm, making it a hit for holiday gatherings. The crunchy celery complements the creamy, tangy filling for a satisfying bite that’s light yet flavorful. Plus, it’s affordable, with ingredients that are often on sale during the holiday season.
Serving Suggestions
Pair these cream cheese celery sticks with other crowd-pleasers like a cheese board, deviled eggs, or stuffed mushrooms for a festive and varied appetizer spread.
Whether you’re hosting a large Christmas party or a small family gathering, cream cheese celery sticks are guaranteed to impress without breaking the bank—or your schedule.
Conclusion
These are the ultimate appetizer for busy hosts who want something festive, easy, and delicious. With a few simple ingredients and just minutes of prep, you can create a dish that’s as visually appealing as it is tasty. Give them a try this holiday season and watch them disappear from the table!
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Cream Cheese Stuffed Celery
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 6–8 people 1x
Description
A classic, budget-friendly, and festive holiday snack with cream cheese and pimento-stuffed olives!
Ingredients
- Celery stalks (as needed)
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup pimento-stuffed green olives, finely chopped
- 1 tsp garlic powder (or 1 clove garlic, minced)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Chop pimento-stuffed green olives finely.
- In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, chopped olives, garlic powder, and season with salt and pepper. Mix until creamy and smooth.
- Cut celery stalks into serving-sized pieces.
- Fill each celery piece with the cream cheese mixture.
- Arrange on a serving plate. Optional: Use a red plate for a festive touch.
- Serve immediately, or refrigerate until ready to serve.
- Cook Time: 10
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