Save to Pinterest 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 is a family favorite for afternoon teas and has been loved by kids and adults alike for its fun presentation and fresh flavors.
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
- Step 1:
- In a medium bowl, mix the cream cheese, chives, dill, lemon zest, salt, and pepper until well combined and smooth.
- Step 2:
- Using a tree-shaped cookie cutter, cut tree shapes out of each bread slice (save scraps for breadcrumbs).
- Step 3:
- Spread a generous layer of the herbed cream cheese mixture onto each bread tree.
- Step 4:
- Arrange cucumber slices in overlapping layers to mimic tree branches.
- Step 5:
- Garnish with diced red bell pepper as ornaments and use dill fronds or chive pieces as tree trunks or extra greenery.
- Step 6:
- Serve immediately or cover and refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Save to Pinterest Preparing these sandwiches always brings smiles and conversation around our family table during tea time.
Notes
For a vegan version, use plant-based cream cheese. Pairs nicely with sparkling water or light white wine.
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.
Save to Pinterest This recipe is both simple and delightful, making it a go-to choice for fresh, festive sandwiches.
Recipe FAQs
- → What bread works best for these stacks?
White or whole wheat sandwich bread works well, with whole grain adding extra nutrition and color contrast.
- → Can I use other herbs in the cream cheese mixture?
Yes, parsley, basil, or mint can be substituted to suit your taste preferences.
- → How can I make these stacks vegan-friendly?
Use plant-based cream cheese alternatives in place of dairy cream cheese.
- → What is the best way to cut the bread shapes?
A tree-shaped cookie cutter approximately 3–4 inches tall ensures consistent and festive shapes.
- → How should the stacks be served or stored?
Serve immediately for best texture or refrigerate covered for up to two hours before serving.