Save Festive, bite-sized sandwiches layered in star shapes to resemble mini Christmas trees—perfect for holiday gatherings and kids parties.
I enjoy making these sandwiches with my family each Christmas as a fun and easy holiday treat.
Ingredients
- Bread: 12 slices white sandwich bread, 12 slices whole wheat sandwich bread
- Fillings: 120 g cream cheese, softened, 2 tbsp fresh chives finely chopped, 2 tbsp red bell pepper finely diced, 2 tbsp cucumber finely diced
- Garnishes: 12 small cherry tomatoes or star-shaped pieces of yellow bell pepper for tree toppers, 2 tbsp fresh parsley finely chopped for leaves
- Optional: 1 tbsp mayonnaise, Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a small bowl, combine cream cheese, chives, and if desired, mayonnaise. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Step 2:
- Using star-shaped cookie cutters in 3 different sizes (large, medium, small), cut out star shapes from both types of bread. Aim for 1 large, 1 medium, and 1 small star per sandwich.
- Step 3:
- Spread a thin layer of cream cheese mixture onto each bread star.
- Step 4:
- Sprinkle diced red bell pepper on one-third, and diced cucumber on another third, to create visual variety and texture.
- Step 5:
- Stack the stars from largest to smallest, alternating bread colors for contrast.
- Step 6:
- Insert a decorative skewer or toothpick through the center of each stack to secure the layers.
- Step 7:
- Top each sandwich stack with a cherry tomato or a star-shaped piece of yellow bell pepper to mimic a Christmas tree topper.
- Step 8:
- Garnish with chopped parsley for a pine needle effect.
- Step 9:
- Arrange on a platter and serve immediately.
Save My kids light up each year when they help assemble these sandwiches and enjoy the festive shapes at winter gatherings.
Notes
For added flavor, layer with thinly sliced turkey or smoked salmon (omit for vegetarian version). Serve with a festive dip such as cranberry sauce or honey mustard.
Required Tools
Star-shaped cookie cutters (various sizes), spreading knife, mixing bowl, skewers or toothpicks, cutting board
Allergen Information
Contains Wheat (bread), Milk (cream cheese). May contain Eggs (if mayonnaise is used). For allergies, check bread and cheese labels substitute as needed.
Save These mini sandwiches add charm and cheer to any holiday table with minimal effort.
Recipe FAQ
- → What types of bread are best for these star stacks?
Soft sandwich breads like white and whole wheat work well as they hold fillings easily and cut neatly into star shapes.
- → Can these star stacks be prepared in advance?
Yes, assembling shortly before serving helps maintain freshness, but fillings can be mixed beforehand for quick preparation.
- → What alternatives can be used to cream cheese?
Dairy-free spreads or soft cheeses provide similar creaminess while accommodating dietary preferences.
- → How can the stacks be visually enhanced?
Use contrasting bread colors and vibrant vegetable garnishes like red peppers and cherry tomatoes for festive appeal.
- → Are there options to add protein to these bites?
Slices of turkey or smoked salmon can be layered inside for added flavor and protein, ideal for non-vegetarian menus.