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Healthy High-Protein Ants on a Log (No Peanut Butter Needed)

healthy high-protein ants on a log - featured image

A quick, protein-packed snack made with creamy blended cottage cheese, crisp celery, and sweet dried fruit. Perfect for a healthy treat that satisfies cravings without the need for peanut butter.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 45 celery stalks
  • 1 cup cottage cheese (full-fat or low-fat)
  • 2 tablespoons dried cranberries or raisins (unsweetened preferred)
  • 1 tablespoon dark chocolate chips (70% cocoa, optional)
  • 1 pinch flaky sea salt
  • Optional: chopped almonds or walnuts, honey, chia seeds

Instructions

  1. Wash 4-5 celery stalks thoroughly under cold water and pat dry. Cut each stalk into 3-4 inch pieces.
  2. Add 1 cup cottage cheese to a food processor or blender. Blend on high for 30-45 seconds until completely smooth and creamy. If too thick, add a teaspoon of milk or water and blend again.
  3. Transfer blended cottage cheese to a small bowl. Add a tiny pinch of salt (about 1/8 teaspoon) and stir to combine.
  4. Using a small spoon or butter knife, spread a generous amount of the cottage cheese filling into the groove of each celery piece, about 1/4 inch thick.
  5. Press a few dried cranberries or raisins into the filling along the length of each celery piece. Add dark chocolate chips if using. Sprinkle any optional nuts or seeds on top.
  6. If desired, sprinkle a tiny pinch of flaky sea salt over each log.
  7. Serve immediately or refrigerate for 15-20 minutes to firm up. Enjoy cold or at room temperature.

Notes

For best results, use room temperature cottage cheese for smoother blending. If filling slides off celery, pat celery dry thoroughly. Store leftovers in an airtight container with a paper towel for up to 2 days. For a dairy-free version, use blended silken tofu or dairy-free yogurt.

Nutrition

Keywords: ants on a log, high protein snack, healthy snack, no peanut butter, cottage cheese snack, celery snack, gluten-free, kid-friendly