Introduction to Cranberry Pecan Holiday Celery Boats
As the holiday season approaches, I always find myself scrambling for quick and festive appetizers that bring joy to both my family and guests. That’s where my Cranberry Pecan Holiday Celery Boats shine! These delightful little bites are perfect for gatherings. They combine the fresh crunch of celery, creamy cheese, and the sweet-tart zing of cranberries. Plus, they come together in just 15 minutes! Whether you’re hosting a party or looking for a fun after-school snack, these celery boats will surely impress without taking up all your precious time.
Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Pecan Holiday Celery Boats
Let’s be real—life gets busy, especially during the holidays. That’s why I adore these Cranberry Pecan Holiday Celery Boats. They’re not only effortless to whip up, but they also deliver big on flavor! The crunch of the celery combined with the creamy, savory filling is simply divine. Plus, they look gorgeous on any platter, making them the perfect dish to sweep everyone off their feet with minimal effort. Who doesn’t love that?
Ingredients for Cranberry Pecan Holiday Celery Boats
Gathering the right ingredients is key to crafting these beautiful Cranberry Pecan Holiday Celery Boats. Let’s dive into what you’ll need:
- Celery Stalks: Fresh, crunchy celery is the base of this dish. Trimmed and cut into manageable sizes, they serve as the perfect vessel for filling.
- Cream Cheese: This creamy delight adds richness to our filling. Make sure it’s softened for easier mixing.
- Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: A touch of tanginess helps blend the flavors smoothly. Choose the one you love more!
- Garlic Powder: This adds a subtle kick. If you’re feeling adventurous, fresh garlic can substitute, just use less.
- Fresh Herbs (Parsley or Dill): These bring freshness and a pop of color. Feel free to mix and match based on your taste.
- Salt & Pepper: A little seasoning goes a long way in enhancing flavors. Adjust to your liking!
- Dried Cranberries: These are the star of the dish; their natural sweetness balances the creaminess perfectly.
- Toasted Pecan Halves or Pieces: For that delightful crunch. You can also experiment with walnuts if you want something a bit different!
- Extra Fresh Herbs: Use these for garnishing and an additional splash of flavor.
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where I’ve provided all the details for you. And remember, feel free to get creative with these ingredients based on what you have on hand! Happy cooking!
How to Make Cranberry Pecan Holiday Celery Boats
Creating these Cranberry Pecan Holiday Celery Boats is a breeze. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a festive appetizer ready in no time!
Step 1: Prepare the Celery
Start by washing the celery stalks under cool water. Gently scrub them to remove any dirt. Once they’re clean, trim off the ends to make a nice flat base. Don’t forget to cut the stalks into 3–4 inch pieces. This size is perfect for filling and for easy enjoyment during your holiday gatherings!
Step 2: Make the Cheese Filling
It’s time to make that creamy, dreamy filling! In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it’s smooth and fluffy. This will take just a few minutes. Next, add in the sour cream or Greek yogurt along with the garlic powder, chopped herbs, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together, ensuring there are no lumps. You want a velvety texture that will swirl beautifully into the celery!
Step 3: Prepare the Celery Boats
Now, let’s fill those celery pieces! Use a spoon or a piping bag to generously fill each hollowed celery stalk with the cheese mixture. Don’t be shy; you want each boat to be stuffed to the brim! After filling, gently press a few dried cranberries into each piece, followed by the toasted pecans. The cranberries add sweetness, while the pecans offer a delightful crunch!
Step 4: Chill and Serve
Here comes the hardest part—waiting! Chill your celery boats in the refrigerator for about 10 minutes. This helps the filling firm up. Once they’re ready, plate them up beautifully. For an extra touch, sprinkle a few more fresh herbs on top. Your Cranberry Pecan Holiday Celery Boats are now ready to impress your guests!
Tips for Success
- Always use fresh herbs for the best flavor.
- let your cream cheese sit out for a bit before mixing; it makes it easier to whip!
- For extra flair, consider drizzling honey over the top.
- Don’t skip the chilling step; it tightens the filling beautifully.
- If you’re short on time, prep the filling a day ahead and just fill the celery before serving.
Equipment Needed
- Mixing Bowl: A medium-sized bowl works perfectly. A larger bowl can help if you’re making a double batch.
- Electric Mixer or Whisk: An electric mixer saves time, but a good old whisk will do just fine.
- Spoon or Piping Bag: Use a spoon for simple filling or a piping bag for a neat presentation.
Variations of Cranberry Pecan Holiday Celery Boats
- Herbed Cream Cheese: Swap plain cream cheese for a flavored variety, like chive or garlic herb, to add an extra layer of taste.
- Nut-Free Option: For those with nut allergies, replace the pecans with crispy pumpkin seeds for a delightful crunch.
- Add a Touch of Heat: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes into the cheese mixture for a spicy kick.
- Vegan Version: Use vegan cream cheese and substitute Greek yogurt for cashew cream or silken tofu for a dairy-free alternative.
- Fruit Variations: Mix in chopped apples or pears for an added sweetness and texture contrast alongside dried cranberries.
Serving Suggestions for Cranberry Pecan Holiday Celery Boats
- Pair these delightful appetizer boats with a crisp white wine or sparkling cider for a festive touch.
- Serve alongside a cheese platter featuring assorted cheeses and cured meats.
- Garnish with extra fresh herbs for a pop of color on your serving tray.
- Include a bowl of crunchy tortilla chips for a fun contrast in texture.
FAQs about Cranberry Pecan Holiday Celery Boats
Can I make Cranberry Pecan Holiday Celery Boats ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cheese filling and fill the celery sticks a few hours before your event. Just keep them covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve. This also gives the flavors a chance to meld beautifully!
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover Cranberry Pecan Holiday Celery Boats in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’re best enjoyed within a couple of days, but the celery will start to lose its crunch after that. So, make sure to gobble them up quickly!
Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?
While you can certainly experiment with fresh cranberries, I recommend sticking with dried for this recipe. Dried cranberries offer a delightful sweetness and texture contrast that balances the savory elements beautifully. However, if you prefer fresh, consider adding a sweetener to the cheese mixture.
What can I serve with these celery boats?
These Cranberry Pecan Holiday Celery Boats pair wonderfully with a variety of drinks and snacks! Try serving them alongside a cheese platter, crispy tortilla chips, or a refreshing salad for a well-rounded spread that guests will love!
Are there any other nuts I can use?
Definitely! While pecans are my favorite in this recipe, feel free to swap them out for walnuts, almonds, or even sunflower seeds for a nut-free option. Each nut brings its own unique flavor and crunch!
Final Thoughts
Every bite of these Cranberry Pecan Holiday Celery Boats is a little celebration of flavor and texture. They bring together the crunch of fresh celery, the creamy indulgence of cheese, and the festive sweetness of cranberries in a charming way. As a busy mom, I truly appreciate how easy they are to prepare without sacrificing taste. It’s moments like these—sharing delightful bites with loved ones—that make the holiday season memorable. So, whether you’re hosting or just looking for a snack, these boats will surely spread joy and smiles all around your table!
Print
Cranberry Pecan Holiday Celery Boats
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Cranberry Pecan Holiday Celery Boats are a festive and elegant appetizer that combines crunchy celery with a creamy cheese filling, topped with sweet cranberries and savory pecans.
Ingredients
- 5 large celery stalks, trimmed and cut into 3–4 inch pieces
- 1 (8 oz / 225g) block cream cheese, softened
- 2 tbsp sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or dill
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- 1/3 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup toasted pecan halves or pieces
- Extra fresh herbs, for garnish
Instructions
- Wash and dry celery, then cut into even pieces.
- In a bowl, beat cream cheese with sour cream until smooth.
- Stir in garlic powder, herbs, salt, and pepper.
- Spoon or pipe the cheese mix into celery hollows.
- Press a few cranberries gently into each stuffed stalk.
- Top with pecans for crunch and flavor.
- Garnish with extra herbs if desired.
- Chill for 10 mins to firm up, or serve immediately.
Notes
- For a lighter option, use low-fat cream cheese.
- Fresh herbs can be swapped based on preference.
- Can be made a few hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-cook
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 celery boat
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 140mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
