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Creamy Celery Boats

These creamy celery boats are a simple, tangy, and crunchy snack perfect for parties and gatherings, featuring a delicious cream cheese filling mixed with herbs and optional savory additions.
Print it Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 24 sticks
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 100
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Filling
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened Full-fat gives the best texture
  • 1/3 cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream Adds tang and spreadability; Greek yogurt adds protein
  • 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar Optional for savory depth
  • 2 tbsp finely chopped chives or green onion
  • 1-2 tsp lemon juice Brightens flavors
  • 1/4 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/4 tsp onion powder
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • 3-4 slices cooked and crumbled bacon Optional mix-in
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley Optional mix-in
  • 2 tbsp toasted walnut or pecan pieces Optional mix-in
  • a dash hot sauce Optional mix-in
For the Celery
  • 6-8 large stalks celery About 2-3 ribs per person as an appetizer

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Soften the cream cheese by leaving it at room temperature for 20-30 minutes or microwave in 10-second bursts until spreadable.
  2. In a bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add Greek yogurt, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until combined.
  3. Fold in shredded cheddar, chives, and any optional mix-ins (bacon, nuts). Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  4. Rinse celery stalks, trim the ends, and remove any strings by gently pulling them off. Cut stalks into 3-4 inch lengths if you prefer bite-size pieces.
  5. Pat the celery dry very well—excess moisture will make the filling soggy.
Assembly
  1. Transfer the filling into a piping bag (or a zipper bag with a corner snipped) and pipe into each celery groove.
  2. Alternatively, spoon the mixture evenly across the celery grooves and use the back of a spoon to smooth.
  3. Garnish with extra chives, paprika, or toasted nuts.
  4. Chill for 15-30 minutes to firm up and make for easier serving. Serve cold.

Notes

Store filled celery in an airtight container for up to 48 hours. Best consumed within the first day due to moisture release from celery. Prepare filling up to 3 days ahead; fill celery just before serving. Do not freeze filled celery.