Butterfly Bites

Delicious Butterfly Bites Recipe with Celery, Pretzels, Peanut Butter, Raisins, and Slivered Almonds

Preparation time: 15 minutes | Servings: 12

Introduction

Butterfly Bites are a fun and creative snack that is perfect for parties, gatherings, or just a fun afternoon snack. These adorable butterfly-shaped treats are not only delicious but also easy to make.

History

Butterfly Bites have been a popular snack for children and adults alike for many years. The idea of creating butterfly-shaped snacks using celery, pretzels, cream cheese, and other ingredients has been a creative way to make healthy snacks more appealing to kids.

Ingredients

2 stalks of celery
12 large three-ring pretzels
6 tbsp of peanut butter or cream cheese
about 18 raisins or currants
12 slivered almonds or enoki mushrooms

How to prepare

Wash the celery.
Using plastic knives, cut the celery into thirds.
Fill each celery stalk with one tablespoon of either peanut butter or cream cheese.
For the wings, gently insert 1 pretzel into the filling, running parallel to the length of the celery stick.
Repeat the same process on the other side of the celery.
Arrange the raisins or currents to create the eyes, nose, and mouth.
For the antennae, insert the slivered almonds or mushroom cap into the filling.
If using mushrooms, position the spaghetti-like mushroom tips upward to resemble antennae.

Variations

Use almond butter or sunflower seed butter instead of cream cheese or peanut butter.
Use raisins or chocolate chips for the eyes, nose, and mouth of the butterfly.
Use different types of mushrooms for the antennae.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Use plastic knives when cutting the celery to prevent any accidents.

- Make sure to fill the celery evenly with cream cheese or peanut butter for a balanced flavor.

- Get creative with the toppings for the eyes, nose, and mouth of the butterfly.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Butterfly Bites as a fun and healthy snack for kids' parties, picnics, or as an afternoon treat.

Cooking Techniques

Use plastic knives for cutting the celery to prevent any accidents.

- Gently insert the pretzels and mushrooms to create the butterfly wings and antennae.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use almond butter or sunflower seed butter instead of cream cheese or peanut butter.

- Use raisins or chocolate chips for the eyes, nose, and mouth of the butterfly.

- Use different types of mushrooms for the antennae.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the filling for the Butterfly Bites ahead of time and assemble them just before serving to keep them fresh.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the Butterfly Bites on a platter in a butterfly shape for a fun and creative presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve Butterfly Bites with fresh fruit, veggie sticks, or a side of yogurt for a balanced snack.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Butterfly Bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Do not freeze.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Butterfly Bites contains approximately 100 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Butterfly Bites contains approximately 10 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Butterfly Bites contains approximately 5 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Butterfly Bites contains approximately 3 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Butterfly Bites are a good source of Vitamin C, Vitamin K, and potassium.

Alergens

Butterfly Bites may contain allergens such as nuts (if using peanut butter), dairy (if using cream cheese), and gluten (if using pretzels).

Summary

Butterfly Bites are a fun and creative snack that is relatively low in calories and a good source of vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Butterfly Bites are a fun and creative snack that is easy to make and perfect for parties or as a healthy afternoon treat. With a balance of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals, these butterfly-shaped treats are sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately hooked. It was a warm summer day and I had strolled down to the local farmer's market to pick up some fresh produce for dinner. As I wandered through the stalls, a sweet aroma caught my attention. Following my nose, I came upon a little stand where an elderly woman was selling the most incredible looking pastries I had ever seen.

Intrigued, I approached the woman and asked her what they were called. She smiled kindly and said they were called Butterfly Bites. She went on to explain that they were a family recipe that had been passed down through generations. The delicate pastries were filled with a creamy vanilla custard and topped with a sprinkle of powdered sugar. My mouth watered just thinking about them.

I couldn't resist buying a few to try and as soon as I took my first bite, I was in love. The pastry was light and flaky, the custard creamy and decadent. It was like nothing I had ever tasted before. I knew right then and there that I had to learn how to make them myself.

I asked the woman if she would be willing to share her recipe with me and she agreed, on one condition. I had to promise to pass it on to future generations, just as she had done. I eagerly agreed and she handed me a tattered old recipe card with faded writing on it. She told me to cherish it, for it held the key to creating the perfect Butterfly Bites.

I hurried home that day, eager to try my hand at making the pastries. I gathered the ingredients and followed the instructions on the card to a tee. The kitchen was filled with the sweet scent of butter and vanilla as the pastries baked in the oven. When they were finally done, I took a bite and closed my eyes in pure bliss. They were just as delicious as I remembered.

From that day on, Butterfly Bites became a staple in my kitchen. I would make them for special occasions, for family gatherings, or just because. Each time I made them, I felt a connection to that kind woman at the farmer's market who had shared her recipe with me.

Over the years, I have made a few tweaks to the recipe, adding a touch of lemon zest to the custard or a hint of almond extract to the pastry dough. I have passed the recipe on to my children and grandchildren, just as I promised I would. And each time they make Butterfly Bites, they think of me and the story behind the recipe.

Now, as I sit in my kitchen, surrounded by the comforting aroma of baking pastries, I can't help but smile. This recipe has brought me so much joy and has connected me to so many people over the years. I am grateful for the chance encounter that led me to discover Butterfly Bites and for the kind woman who shared her recipe with me.

As I take a fresh batch of pastries out of the oven, I know that I will continue to make them for as long as I am able. They are more than just a dessert to me, they are a reminder of the power of food to bring people together and create lasting memories. And for that, I am truly grateful.