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 reminds me of my childhood tea parties where simple, fun shapes made everything more 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
- 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 These stacks are a hit with the family during holiday get-togethers, sparking joy and conversation.
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
Calories: 110, Total Fat: 6 g, Carbohydrates: 11 g, Protein: 3 g (per sandwich)
Save Serve these stacks fresh for the best texture and flavor every time.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of bread works best for these stacks?
White or whole wheat sandwich bread are ideal for cutting into tree shapes and provide a soft base that complements the creamy filling.
- → Can I use alternative herbs in the cream cheese mixture?
Yes, fresh parsley, basil, or mint can be substituted to vary the flavor while maintaining the fresh herbaceous notes.
- → How should I slice the cucumber for layering?
Thinly slice the cucumber into rounds to create overlapping layers that mimic tree branches and add a crisp texture.
- → Is it necessary to refrigerate before serving?
These stacks can be served immediately or covered and refrigerated for up to 2 hours to allow flavors to meld and maintain freshness.
- → What garnishes enhance the presentation?
Diced red bell pepper adds festive “ornaments,” while fresh dill fronds or chives serve as edible “tree trunks” or greenery accents.