Save Delightfully fresh and visually charming, these whimsical finger sandwiches layer cool cucumber and herbed cream cheese in a festive tree shape—perfect for parties, afternoon teas, or kid-friendly gatherings.
Save Each tree stack combines crisp cucumber slices with a tangy, herbed cream cheese spread, creating a cool and creamy bite that’s as attractive as it is tasty. These little sandwiches bring a touch of whimsy to your table and make finger foods feel special.
Ingredients
- Bread: 12 slices white or whole wheat sandwich bread
- Cream Cheese Mixture: 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened; 2 tbsp fresh chives, finely chopped; 1 tbsp fresh dill, finely chopped; 1 tsp lemon zest; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Vegetables: 1 large English cucumber, thinly sliced into rounds
- Garnishes (optional): Red bell pepper, diced (for tree ornaments); Fresh dill fronds or chives (for tree trunks or branches)
Instructions
- 1.
- In a medium bowl, mix the cream cheese, chives, dill, lemon zest, salt, and pepper until well combined and smooth.
- 2.
- Using a tree-shaped cookie cutter, cut tree shapes out of each bread slice (save scraps for breadcrumbs).
- 3.
- Spread a generous layer of the herbed cream cheese mixture onto each bread tree.
- 4.
- Arrange cucumber slices in overlapping layers to mimic tree branches.
- 5.
- Garnish with diced red bell pepper as ornaments and use dill fronds or chive pieces as tree trunks or extra greenery.
- 6.
- Serve immediately, or cover and refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
Use whole grain bread for added nutrition and color contrast. This also enhances the visual appeal of your tree stacks with a wholesome look. Make sure to slice cucumbers thinly for delicate layering and a refined texture.
Varianten und Anpassungen
Substitute fresh herbs according to preference—parsley, basil, or mint work well to vary the flavor profile. For a vegan version, use plant-based cream cheese to keep the stacks creamy and delicious without dairy.
Serviervorschläge
Pairs nicely with sparkling water or a light white wine, making it a perfect appetizer for warm weather parties or elegant afternoon teas. Garnish creatively to match the occasion or let kids decorate their own edible trees.
Save With minimal preparation and a stunning result, these Cucumber and Cream Cheese Tree Stacks are sure to become a seasonal favorite. Their blend of creamy texture and fresh crunch, paired with their festive appearance, brings joy to every gathering.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I prevent the bread from getting soggy?
Use slightly stale bread or toast the slices lightly before cutting shapes. Applying cream cheese evenly also helps keep moisture contained.
- → Can I use different herbs in the cheese mixture?
Yes, fresh parsley, basil, or mint can replace or complement the chives and dill for varied flavors.
- → What is the purpose of the tree-shaped cutter?
It forms the bread slices into fun, festive shapes that visually mimic evergreen trees, enhancing presentation.
- → How far in advance can these be prepared?
Stacks can be assembled and refrigerated for up to two hours before serving to maintain freshness and shape.
- → Are there vegan alternatives for the cream cheese?
Plant-based cream cheese substitutes work well to keep the creamy texture and herb flavor without dairy.