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Cucumber Christmas tree sandwiches with star-shaped red pepper toppers served outdoors on a rustic wooden table in winter.
Food writer Sarah Mitchell holds homemade pasta salad in clear container, showing colorful rotini with vegetables for picnic mealsSarah Mitchell

Cucumber Sandwiches for Christmas Picnic No Soggy Mess

These festive cucumber sandwiches stay crisp for hours and feature a charming Christmas tree shape with fresh herbs, creamy spread, and decorative garnishes—perfect for your outdoor holiday gatherings!
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Prep Time 35 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 12 sandwiches
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: American, Holiday
Calories: 120
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Spread
  • 225 g cream cheese softened
  • 2 tbsp mayonnaise full-fat for richness
  • 2 tbsp fresh dill finely chopped
  • 2 tbsp fresh chives snipped
  • 0.5 tsp garlic powder
  • to taste salt and black pepper
For the Base
  • 24 slices white sandwich bread or brioche crusts removed
  • 1 English cucumber thinly sliced with a mandoline
  • 1 tsp salt for moisture extraction
For the Festive Garnishes
  • 0.5 red bell pepper cut into small stars
  • 2 tbsp pomegranate seeds or pimento for ornament-style decoration
  • 2 tbsp fresh dill fronds for garnish
  • optional carrot slices for color variation

Method
 

  1. 1. Mix the Spread: Combine softened cream cheese and mayonnaise in a bowl. Use a spatula or mixer to blend until smooth and lump-free.
  2. 2. Add the Herbs and Seasoning: Stir in dill, chives, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  3. 3. Prepare the Cucumbers: Slice cucumbers thinly using a mandoline. Lay on paper towels, sprinkle with salt, and let rest 30 minutes. Pat dry thoroughly.
  4. 4. Prepare the Bread: Remove crusts if not already done. Spread cream cheese mixture edge-to-edge on each slice.
  5. 5. Add the Cucumbers: Layer cucumber slices in overlapping rows on half the bread slices. Optional: sprinkle herbs on top.
  6. 6. Assemble the Sandwiches: Top with remaining bread slices, cream cheese side down. Press gently to seal.
  7. 7. Chill Before Cutting: Chill sandwiches for 10–15 minutes in the fridge to firm up the filling.
  8. 8. Slice and Decorate: Cut into rectangles or use a cookie cutter to create festive shapes. Decorate with bell pepper stars, pomegranate seeds, dill, and more as desired.

Notes

Use gloves when decorating to avoid smudging cucumber surfaces. Freeze bread slightly before assembling to help with spreading and cutting. Add lemon zest for a citrus twist. For gluten-free, choose firm GF bread and slice after chilling.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 120
  • Total Fat: 8g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 20mg
  • Sodium: 180mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 9g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 1g
  • Protein: 3g
Note: Nutrition values are approximate and may vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes.