How do I create the star shapes?

Use star-shaped cookie cutters in three sizes to cut different layers from both white and whole wheat bread.

Can I prepare these in advance?

For best freshness, assemble shortly before serving; layering bread might get soggy if left too long.

A creamy mixture of softened cream cheese blended with chopped chives, complemented by diced red bell pepper and cucumber pieces for texture.

Swap cream cheese with dairy-free alternatives and use gluten-free bread if needed; add sliced turkey or smoked salmon for non-vegetarian versions.

Small cherry tomatoes or star-shaped pieces of yellow bell pepper serve as toppers, with parsley sprinkled to mimic pine needles.

Festive, bite-sized sandwiches layered in star shapes to resemble mini Christmas trees—perfect for holiday gatherings and kids parties.

This is a fun and creative recipe that always delights both kids and adults during the holiday season.

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

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.

This recipe brings my family together every holiday season, creating joyful moments around the table.

For added flavor, layer with thinly sliced turkey or smoked salmon, but omit for the vegetarian version.

Serve with a festive dip such as cranberry sauce or honey mustard for extra zest.

Best served fresh but can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours if wrapped well.

Enjoy these fun and festive sandwiches that bring a holiday spirit to any party or snack time.

→ How do I create the star shapes?: Use star-shaped cookie cutters in three sizes to cut different layers from both white and whole wheat bread.
→ Can I prepare these in advance?: For best freshness, assemble shortly before serving; layering bread might get soggy if left too long.
→ What fillings are used inside the layers?: A creamy mixture of softened cream cheese blended with chopped chives, complemented by diced red bell pepper and cucumber pieces for texture.
→ How can I adapt the stacks for dietary preferences?: Swap cream cheese with dairy-free alternatives and use gluten-free bread if needed; add sliced turkey or smoked salmon for non-vegetarian versions.
→ What garnishes top the stacks?: Small cherry tomatoes or star-shaped pieces of yellow bell pepper serve as toppers, with parsley sprinkled to mimic pine needles.