Ants can be grouped into two, major dietary groups: one prefers sugars and starches and the other is attracted to oil, grease, protein. While there is some crossover, knowing the food preference gives one a clue as to how effective a bait will be.
Borax and Boric Acid baits get taken back to the colony and eventually kill or sterilize the queen(s). A sugar bait can be made from:
2 cups sugar
1 cup warm water, into which is dissolved 2 TBS Boric Acid-you’ll need to stir this around for awhile to get it dissolved, before adding the sugar.
If too much Boric Acid or Borax is added, it will repel ants. No bait, even correctly mixed, always works. It can take many days to finally kill the colony. Keep this bait out of the reach of children and pets. I use shallow jar lids, placed in cabinets.
I suspect 2 TBS powdered Boric acid can be thoroughly mixed into a cup of butter for ants that go for oils.
These recipes can be reduced for smaller volumes.
Several perimeter or spot spray insecticides are listed for ants. Some label indoor use for cracks, crevices. You can search for the “specimen label” on:
Suspend SC
D-Fense SC
Talstar
These Pyrethroid compounds have relatively lower mammalian toxicity, but high toxicity to insects. Active ingredients can include: micro-crystalline Deltamethrin, Bifenthrin, or others. Always read and follow label instructions! I’ve used all of the brands listed above, with good success. The sprays mix with water and are essentially odorless when dry.
