Ants On A Log

In my effort to keep it simple this week, I give you a simple, but delicious snack. Spreading a bit of peanut butter on celery or apples and sprinkling on a few raisins is all the trouble this treat will bring you. I don't know about you, but I don't think that's any trouble at all.

I grew up on this sweet, simple snack. Affectionately referred to as "Ants on a Log," the raisins (ants) sit a top the celery (log). It's a silly name, but it adds a little fun to an otherwise rustic snack. If a silly name is what it will take to get your child to eat a snack that isn't stuffed full of sugar and god knows what else (just like me when I was younger), then embrace the beauty of the silly name. For kids who don't like raisins, chocolate chips may be used with the same effect.

The combination of raisins and peanut butter has a special place in my heart. As an adult, I've made ants on a log more times than I can count. In fact, I've even tried to turn it into entire meals, where I will eat vast amounts of peanut butter, raisins, celery, and nothing else. As a snack, ants on a log is healthy and delicious. As an entire meal? Not the case. Though unbelievably enjoyable, I don't recommend it. Eating too many vegetables if your body isn't used to it will make your stomach upset. It will cramp. You will feel pain.

Every single time.

I've thought it "must have been a fluke" at least 5 times and went back for more. It's not a fluke. According to Albert Einstein, the definition of insanity is doing the exact same thing over and over again expecting different results.

I'd like to pretend that doesn't apply to me.

The moral of the story: a simple sandwich with a side of ants and logs will solve your stomach woes. Or eating more vegetables on a daily basis. I should probably do that.

I think I could happily get down a few ants on a log every day...

Ants on a Log are a simple and healthy snack. These are perfect for after school or evening treats. Ants on a Log are a snap to make and require only 3 ingredients you already have in your cupboard(!). Raisins and peanut butter together are magical. Combined with the crunch of a fresh stalk of celery or a crisp apple, these snacks also sport a good dose of texture. You'd be silly not to give these a chance.

One Year Ago: Whole Wheat Baguettes

Ants On A Log

Peanut Butter
Celery
Apples
Raisins
Chocolate Chips (optional)

Spread peanut butter on celery or apples and sprinkle with raisins and/or chocolate chips. Couldn't be any simpler!

Comments

[Anna]

Ok, I have never heard of this or tried it! So original! Any type of apple in particular or any apple will do? I wonder what this tastes like in puff pastry... Thanks!

[Rhubarb and Venison]

Somehow, you made the most humble of snacks look elegant. Lovely.

[Kristin Rosenau]

Anna-- Any type of apple will do, just go with your favorite. This snack isn't picky.

Rhubarb & Venison-- Thank you! Sometimes the most humble snacks are the most delicious.

[KS]

I'm curious about the taste, have to try it, it's simple!

[Barefoot Pregnant And In The Kitchen]

Celery has never looks so good as it does in your photos! I'm a big fan of ants on a log... or cream cheese stuffed celery topped with olives.

[Heidi]

My husband isn't a big fan of raisins so his favorite version of this snack is Fire Ants on a Log using craisins instead of raisins. I highly recommend giving it a try too.

[Les]

Still one of my favorite snacks! Brings me right back to my childhood!

[Christine]

I LOVE ants on a log. I also love how you made something so simple look absolutely fantastic! :)