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.
This recipe combines simple ingredients to create a fun and festive appetizer that is always a hit at family gatherings.
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
- Mix the cream cheese mixture:
- In a medium bowl, mix the cream cheese, chives, dill, lemon zest, salt, and pepper until well combined and smooth.
- Cut tree shapes:
- Using a tree-shaped cookie cutter, cut tree shapes out of each bread slice (save scraps for breadcrumbs).
- Spread cream cheese:
- Spread a generous layer of the herbed cream cheese mixture onto each bread tree.
- Arrange cucumber slices:
- Arrange cucumber slices in overlapping layers to mimic tree branches.
- Garnish:
- Garnish with diced red bell pepper as ornaments and use dill fronds or chive pieces as tree trunks or extra greenery.
- Serve:
- Serve immediately, or cover and refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Save This recipe brings my family together especially during holiday parties where kids love assembling their own tree stacks.
Required Tools
Tree-shaped cookie cutter (approx 3 4 inches tall), Small mixing bowl, Spatula or butter knife, Sharp knife, Cutting board
Allergen Information
Contains Wheat (gluten) Milk (dairy) Check cream cheese and bread labels for additional allergens if necessary
Nutritional Information (per sandwich)
Calories 110, Total Fat 6 g, Carbohydrates 11 g, Protein 3 g
Save This delightful appetizer is sure to impress with its fresh flavors and festive presentation.
Recipe Guide
- → What bread works best for these stacks?
White or whole wheat sandwich bread provides the ideal texture and flavor for layering and cutting into shapes.
- → How do I make the herbed cheese mixture?
Combine softened cream cheese with fresh chives, dill, lemon zest, salt, and pepper until smooth and well blended.
- → Can I prepare these stacks in advance?
Yes, assemble and refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving to keep them fresh.
- → Are there vegetarian-friendly options?
Using plant-based cream cheese allows for vegan adaptations while maintaining flavor and texture.
- → How can I decorate the stacks for presentation?
Garnish with diced red bell pepper as ornaments and use dill fronds or chives for a tree-like appearance.