THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO ANTS ON A LOG SNACK

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Are you looking for a fun and nutritious snack that your kids will love? Look no further than ants on a log!

This classic treat has been enjoyed by children for generations, and now we’re putting a unique twist on it to make it even more exciting.

In this ultimate guide, we’ll delve into the world of ants on a log, exploring a different variation of this beloved snack that is sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters.

Whether you’re a parent, a nanny, or a caregiver, you’ll find plenty of inspiration and ideas to keep snack time interesting and delicious.

From traditional ants on a log with peanut butter and raisins to creative alternatives using dried cranberries, or even chocolate chips, there’s a recipe here to suit every taste.

Plus, we’ll share tips on how to get your kids involved in the kitchen, making ants on a log a fun and educational activity for the whole family.

Get ready to take your snack game to the next level with our ultimate guide to ants on a log.

It’s time to bring a smile to your kids’ faces and make snack time an adventure!

My Personal Connection

The concept of this classic kids snack is perfectly aligned with the brunch theme, capturing the essence of playful indulgence amidst the gathering of adults and children alike.

As adults prepare to settle in for a leisurely brunch, little ones are often bursting with energy, having already tackled their morning routine.

Introducing this whimsical snack allows everyone to partake in the festivities, ensuring that both young and old are equally satisfied.

It’s a delightful way to infuse a touch of fun into the brunch experience, fostering moments of joy and togetherness that linger long after the last bite is savored.

Ants on a Log Traditional Recipe

This is a simple and easy-to-make snack that requires just a few ingredients.

The traditional recipe calls for:

celery sticks
peanut butter
and raisins

To make this classic treat, start by washing and cutting the celery into small, bite-sized pieces.

Next, spread a generous amount of peanut butter onto each celery stick, filling the groove in the center.

Finally, place a line of raisins on top of the peanut butter, resembling ants marching on a log.

This traditional recipe is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients.

Celery is low in calories and high in fiber, making it a great choice for a healthy snack.

Peanut butter provides protein and healthy fats, while raisins add natural sweetness and a dose of antioxidants.

Ways to Make Ants on a Log

While the traditional recipe is a beloved classic, we’ve put our own spin on it with a popular alternative that’s sure to delight taste buds of all ages.

By mixing equal parts peanut butter and yogurt, we’ve not only created a slightly lighter flavor profile but also maintained the creamy texture that makes this snack so irresistible.

It’s a refreshing twist on a nostalgic favorite, perfect for adding a touch of innovation to your brunch spread while still capturing the essence of childhood joy.

Another creative twist on the classic recipe is to use other toppings instead of raisins. Dried fruit adds a tangy and slightly sweet flavor to the snack, providing a burst of freshness with every bite. Alternatively, you can experiment with fresh fruit or nuts to add variety and excitement to your ants on a log.

For those with a sweet tooth, why not try a chocolate chip or sprinkled version of ants on a log? Simply replace the raisins with mini chocolate chips or sprinkles for a decadent and indulgent twist on this classic treat. Kids will love the combination of creamy peanut butter, crunchy celery, and the sweeter flavors.

Are Ants on a Log Healthy?

Ants on a log is not only a delicious snack but also a nutritious one.

The combination of celery, yogurt, and peanut butter, provides a range of health benefits for both children and adults.

Let’s take a closer look at the nutritional value of each ingredient.

Celery is a low-calorie vegetable that is high in fiber. It is a great source of vitamins C and K, as well as folate and potassium. The high water content of celery can help keep your kids hydrated, especially during hot summer months.
Yogurt adds another layer of nutritional value to this snack. It is rich in probiotics, which are beneficial bacteria that support digestive health and boost the immune system. Yogurt also provides calcium and vitamin D, important nutrients for bone health and overall well-being.
Peanut butter is a good source of protein and healthy fats. It contains essential amino acids that are important for growth and development. Peanut butter also provides vitamin E, magnesium, and potassium. However, it is important to choose natural peanut butter without added sugar or hydrogenated oils to maximize the health benefits.

By combining these three ingredients, ants on a log provide a balanced snack that is not only tasty but also nourishing for growing bodies.

Ants on a Log for picky eaters

If you have a picky eater on your hands, ants on a log can be a great way to introduce new flavors and textures.

Here are some tips for making the recipe more appealing to picky eaters:

Let kids customize: Give your child the opportunity to customize their ants on a log. Set out a variety of toppings and let them choose what they want to add to their snack. This sense of ownership can make the snack more appealing and increase the likelihood of them trying new flavors.
Make it a game: Turn snack time into a game by challenging your child to create the longest line of ants on a log or the most creative design. This element of fun can make the snack more enticing and encourage them to eat more.
Start small: If your child is hesitant to try ants on a log, start with a small portion and gradually increase it over time. This gradual exposure can help them become more comfortable with the flavors and textures of the snack.

Remember, it can take multiple exposures to new foods for a child to develop a taste for them.

Be patient and continue offering ants on a log as a snack option, even if your child initially rejects it.

Ants on a Log for special occasions

This snack isn’t just for everyday snacking or an alternative to a brunch meal for your kiddo. It can also be a fun and healthy addition to special occasions and parties.

Here are some ideas for incorporating ants on a log into your next celebration:

Picnics: Pack ants on a log in individual containers for a fun and nutritious addition to your picnic basket. It’s the perfect portable snack for outdoor adventures.
Birthday parties: Create a ‘build-your-own’ ants on a log bar at your child’s birthday party. Set out different ingredients, such as various nut butters, dried fruits, and even sprinkles, and let the kids build their own ants on a log.
School lunches: Tired of the same old sandwich in your child’s lunchbox? Switch things up by including ants on a log as a side dish. Pack them in a small container to keep them fresh and crunchy until lunchtime.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use a different nut butter instead of peanut butter?

Absolutely! It can be made with any nut or seed butter of your choice. Try almond butter, cashew butter, sunflower butter, or even tahini for a unique flavor profile.

Can I make ants on a log in advance?

They are best assembled just before serving to prevent the celery from becoming soggy. However, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and store them separately. When you’re ready to serve, simply spread the peanut butter and add the raisins or other toppings.

Can I make ants on a log without celery?

While celery is the traditional base, you can certainly experiment with other fruits or vegetables. Try using apple slices, cucumber sticks, or even carrot sticks as a substitute for the celery.

Final Thoughts

Ants on a log is a classic snack that has stood the test of time.

With its combination of crunch, creaminess, and sweetness, it’s no wonder that kids and adults alike are drawn to this simple yet satisfying treat.

In this ultimate guide, we’ve explored the traditional recipe for ants on a log and provided variations and twists to suit different tastes and dietary preferences.

We’ve also highlighted the health benefits of ants on a log and shared creative presentation ideas to make snack time more exciting.

Whether you’re looking for a nutritious snack for your kids, trying to introduce new flavors to picky eaters, or planning a special occasion or party, ants on a log is a versatile and delicious option.

So, grab some celery, peanut butter, and your favorite toppings, and get ready to embark on a snacking adventure with ants on a log!

Ants on a Log

Introducing our kid-approved Ants on a Log, the ultimate picky eater recipe that adds fun to any family brunch or at-home breakfast or snack! Crunchy celery sticks filled with creamy peanut butter and yogurt, and topped with an assortment of treats, these playful bites are a hit with both kids and adults alike. Whip up a batch for a nutritious and whimsical addition to your brunch spread!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10

Total Time 10

Course Breakfast, brunch, Snack

Cuisine American

Servings 10 Servings

Calories 32 kcal

Ingredients

10 Celery Stalks (small) Note: If you are buying full stalks, you would only need 3-5 cut into thirds.
1/4 cup Peanut Butter
1/4 cup Plain or Vanilla Yogurt
An assortment of your family's favorite toppings: raisins, chocolate chips, m&ms, granola, fresh or dried fruit, and sprinkles.

Instructions

Cut and clean the celery stalks as needed. When cut, each stalk should be approximately 4".
Mix together the peanut butter and yogurt until fully combined. The mixture will be quite thick in order to hold in the celery.
Sprinkle each stalk with the topping of yours or your family's choice (mix it up!), serve and enjoy!

Notes

*Nutrition estimate excludes toppings.

Keyword at home breakfast ideas, breakfast ideas, brunch recipes, family brunch, family brunch ideas, picky eater meals, picky eater test, picky eaters recipes

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