Pimiento cheese finger sandwiches are a quintessential Southern delight, and this recipe from the Good Housekeeping Test Kitchen is a true gem. In my own kitchen, these little bites of cheesy heaven were an instant hit. From the moment I started whipping up the creamy, tangy pimiento cheese, the aroma alone had everyone hovering around, eager for a taste. The simplicity of the recipe belies the incredible flavor it delivers – a perfect balance of sharp cheddar, creamy cheese, and the subtle sweetness of pimentos, all kicked up a notch with a hint of cayenne. Served on delicate pumpernickel, these finger sandwiches transformed a simple afternoon into a mini-celebration. Whether you’re hosting a tea party, a bridal shower, or just craving a sophisticated snack, these pimiento cheese finger sandwiches are guaranteed to impress and disappear in minutes!
Ingredients
To create these delectable Pimiento Cheese Finger Sandwiches, you will need a handful of readily available ingredients, each playing a crucial role in achieving the perfect balance of flavor and texture. High-quality ingredients are key to elevating this simple recipe to something truly special. Let’s delve into each component:
- 1/2 lb. Shredded Extra-Sharp Cheddar Cheese: The star of the show! Extra-sharp cheddar is non-negotiable for that signature pimiento cheese tang. The sharpness cuts through the richness of the cream cheese and mayonnaise, providing a robust cheesy flavor that is both comforting and addictive. When choosing your cheddar, opt for a block and shred it yourself. Pre-shredded cheese often contains cellulose to prevent clumping, which can hinder its melting and creamy texture in the spread. Freshly shredded cheese will melt more smoothly and contribute to a superior overall texture. Look for a good quality brand of extra-sharp cheddar, one that has been aged for a noticeable depth of flavor. If you want to experiment, you could also consider using a blend of cheddar cheeses – perhaps a mix of sharp and white cheddar for a slightly different flavor profile.
- 3 oz. Cream Cheese, Softened: Cream cheese is the binding agent and the creamy base of our pimiento cheese. It lends a luxurious smoothness that contrasts beautifully with the sharp cheddar and adds a subtle tang of its own. It is absolutely crucial that your cream cheese is properly softened before you begin mixing. If the cream cheese is cold and firm, it will be difficult to incorporate smoothly with the other ingredients, resulting in a lumpy spread. To soften cream cheese effectively, you can leave it at room temperature for about 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the temperature of your kitchen. Alternatively, you can gently microwave it in short 10-15 second bursts, checking its consistency after each interval to avoid melting it. Full-fat cream cheese will provide the richest flavor and creamiest texture. While you could use reduced-fat cream cheese, the resulting spread might be slightly less decadent.
- 2/3 cup Pimientos, Drained Well and Chopped: Pimientos are the namesake ingredient and contribute a subtle sweetness and a vibrant pop of color to the pimiento cheese. They are essentially sweet cherry peppers that have been pickled and jarred. It is vital to drain the pimientos extremely well. Excess moisture will dilute the flavor of the cheese spread and can make it too runny. After draining, give them a good chop. The size of the pimiento pieces is a matter of personal preference. Some people prefer larger pieces for a more pronounced pimiento presence, while others prefer a finer chop for a smoother texture. You can find pimientos jarred in most grocery stores, usually in the pickle or olive aisle. Look for good quality pimientos that are bright red and plump.
- 2 Tbsp. Mayonnaise: Mayonnaise adds moisture, richness, and a subtle tang to the pimiento cheese. It helps to bring all the ingredients together into a cohesive and spreadable mixture. Choose a good quality mayonnaise that you enjoy the flavor of. Full-fat mayonnaise will provide the best flavor and texture. You can experiment with different types of mayonnaise, such as olive oil mayonnaise or avocado oil mayonnaise, for slightly different flavor nuances. However, classic mayonnaise is generally considered the best choice for traditional pimiento cheese.
- 2 tsp. Lemon Juice: Lemon juice provides a crucial element of brightness and acidity that balances the richness of the cheese and mayonnaise. It lifts the flavors and prevents the pimiento cheese from becoming too heavy or cloying. Freshly squeezed lemon juice is always preferred for its brighter and more vibrant flavor compared to bottled lemon juice. If you don’t have fresh lemons on hand, bottled lemon juice is an acceptable substitute, but try to use fresh if possible.
- 1/8 tsp. Cayenne (Ground Red) Pepper: A pinch of cayenne pepper adds a subtle warmth and a gentle kick to the pimiento cheese. It’s not meant to make it spicy, but rather to enhance the other flavors and provide a pleasant background heat. A little goes a long way with cayenne pepper. Start with the recommended 1/8 teaspoon and taste the mixture before adding more. You can always add a touch more if you prefer a bit more heat. If you are sensitive to spice, you can start with even less and adjust to your liking.
- Pumpernickel Bread: Pumpernickel bread is traditionally recommended for these finger sandwiches due to its slightly dense texture and subtly sweet and earthy flavor that complements the pimiento cheese beautifully. Its dark color also provides a striking visual contrast against the bright orange pimiento cheese. When selecting pumpernickel bread, look for a loaf that is fresh and not too dry. You can use pre-sliced pumpernickel for convenience, or purchase a loaf and slice it yourself to your desired thickness. If you are not a fan of pumpernickel bread, or if you want to explore other options, you can also use other types of bread for these finger sandwiches. Consider using white bread, wheat bread, rye bread, or even brioche bread. The key is to choose a bread that is soft and slices easily into delicate finger sandwiches.
Instructions
Crafting these delightful Pimiento Cheese Finger Sandwiches is a breeze, requiring only a few simple steps. The beauty of this recipe lies in its straightforwardness, making it perfect for both novice and experienced cooks. Follow these easy instructions to create your own batch of Southern charm:
Step 1: Combine and Cream the Ingredients
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, the magic begins. This is where we bring together the core components of our pimiento cheese. Add the softened cream cheese, shredded extra-sharp cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, lemon juice, and cayenne pepper to the bowl.
Now, using an electric mixer, set to medium speed, start beating these ingredients together. The goal here is to achieve a smooth and well-combined mixture. Continue mixing until all the ingredients are thoroughly incorporated and the mixture becomes creamy and homogenous. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes. Be mindful not to overmix, as this can sometimes make the cheese spread too thin. You are aiming for a creamy, spreadable consistency.
If you don’t have an electric mixer, don’t worry! You can certainly make this recipe by hand. Ensure your cream cheese is very soft and use a sturdy spoon or spatula to thoroughly combine and cream the ingredients. It will require a bit more elbow grease and time, but the result will be just as delicious.
Step 2: Fold in the Pimientos
Once the cheese mixture is smooth and creamy, it’s time to add the pimientos. Gently fold in the chopped, well-drained pimientos into the cheese mixture. Use a spatula to fold them in, rather than stirring vigorously. Folding helps to distribute the pimientos evenly throughout the cheese spread without breaking them down too much. You want to maintain some texture from the pimiento pieces.
Continue folding until the pimientos are evenly dispersed throughout the pimiento cheese mixture, adding those pops of color and sweetness that are characteristic of this classic spread.
Step 3: Assemble the Finger Sandwiches
Now for the fun part – assembling the finger sandwiches! Take your pumpernickel bread slices and lay them out on a clean work surface. Using a butter knife or a small offset spatula, generously spread the pimiento cheese mixture evenly over one side of each slice of bread. Don’t be shy with the spread; a good layer of pimiento cheese is what makes these sandwiches so satisfying.
Once you have spread the pimiento cheese on half of your bread slices, top each one with another slice of pumpernickel bread to create sandwiches.
Step 4: Cut and Shape the Sandwiches
This is where you transform your sandwiches into elegant finger sandwiches. First, using a sharp serrated knife, carefully cut off the crusts from all sides of each sandwich. Removing the crusts gives the sandwiches a refined look and makes them more delicate to eat.
After removing the crusts, you have a couple of options for shaping your finger sandwiches, as suggested by the Good Housekeeping recipe:
- Squares: Cut each sandwich into neat squares. You can cut them into halves, then halves again, or into thirds, depending on the desired size of your squares. Squares are a classic and easy shape for finger sandwiches.
- Circles: For a more elegant presentation, use a 2-inch round cookie cutter to cut out circles from each sandwich. This method creates perfectly uniform and visually appealing circular finger sandwiches. You may have some bread scraps leftover after cutting out circles, but these can be used for breadcrumbs or enjoyed as a snack.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Your Pimiento Cheese Finger Sandwiches are now ready to be served and enjoyed! Arrange them attractively on a platter. Consider serving them immediately for the freshest flavor and texture. However, pimiento cheese finger sandwiches can also be made ahead of time. If making ahead, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator for up to a few hours. This makes them a convenient option for party preparation.
For an extra touch of elegance, you can garnish the platter with fresh parsley sprigs or a few extra pimiento strips. These finger sandwiches are delicious on their own, but they are also wonderful served as part of a larger tea party spread or appetizer platter.
Nutrition Facts
While the Good Housekeeping recipe does not explicitly provide nutritional information, we can estimate the nutrition facts per serving to give you a general idea. Please note that these are estimations and can vary based on specific ingredient brands and portion sizes.
Estimated Servings:
The recipe yields approximately 2 cups of pimiento cheese spread. If you are making finger sandwiches, you can estimate that this amount will make around 16-20 finger sandwiches, depending on how generously you spread the cheese and the size of your bread slices. Let’s assume we get approximately 18 finger sandwiches from this recipe, and consider 2 finger sandwiches as one serving. This gives us approximately 9 servings per recipe.
Estimated Calories per Serving (2 finger sandwiches):
To estimate the calories, we’ll consider the approximate calorie content of each ingredient:
- 1/2 lb. Shredded Extra-Sharp Cheddar Cheese (approximately 800-900 calories)
- 3 oz. Cream Cheese (approximately 300 calories)
- 2/3 cup Pimientos (approximately 50 calories)
- 2 Tbsp. Mayonnaise (approximately 200 calories)
- 2 tsp. Lemon Juice (negligible calories)
- 1/8 tsp. Cayenne Pepper (negligible calories)
- Pumpernickel Bread (approximately 80-100 calories per slice, so 4 slices for 2 sandwiches would be around 320-400 calories)
Total Estimated Calories for the entire recipe: 800 + 300 + 50 + 200 + 360 (average bread calories) = 1710 calories (approximate total)
Estimated Calories per Serving (2 finger sandwiches): 1710 calories / 9 servings = approximately 190 calories per serving.
Please Remember: This is a rough estimate. For precise nutritional information, you can use a nutrition calculator app or website, inputting the specific brands and quantities of ingredients you use.
General Nutritional Profile (per serving – estimation):
- Calories: Approximately 190 calories
- Fat: High (due to cheese and mayonnaise)
- Saturated Fat: High (due to cheese and cream cheese)
- Cholesterol: Moderate to High (due to cheese and cream cheese)
- Sodium: Moderate (depending on cheese and mayonnaise)
- Carbohydrates: Moderate (from bread and pimientos)
- Protein: Moderate (from cheese)
Pimiento cheese finger sandwiches are a delicious treat, but they are not a low-calorie or low-fat food. Enjoy them in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Preparation Time
One of the many advantages of this Pimiento Cheese Finger Sandwiches recipe is its quick and easy preparation. It’s perfect for when you need a sophisticated appetizer or snack without spending hours in the kitchen.
Active Preparation Time:
The active time you’ll spend actually working on this recipe is minimal. This includes:
- Softening the cream cheese: (5-10 minutes, if microwaving, or passively while you prep other ingredients)
- Shredding the cheese (if using a block): (5 minutes, if not using pre-shredded)
- Chopping the pimientos: (2-3 minutes)
- Mixing the ingredients: (5 minutes)
- Spreading the pimiento cheese on bread and cutting: (10-15 minutes)
Total Active Prep Time: Approximately 25-35 minutes.
Inactive Time:
There is minimal inactive time for this recipe. If you choose to soften the cream cheese at room temperature, that will take around 30-60 minutes, but this is passive time where you don’t need to be actively involved.
Total Time from Start to Finish:
From start to finish, including the active preparation and minimal inactive time, you can have these delightful Pimiento Cheese Finger Sandwiches ready to serve in approximately 30-45 minutes.
This quick preparation time makes them ideal for:
- Last-minute gatherings: When you need a quick and impressive appetizer for unexpected guests.
- Tea parties and luncheons: Easy to prepare in advance and assemble just before serving.
- Weekday snacks: A satisfying and flavorful snack that doesn’t require a lot of time commitment.
- Potlucks and picnics: Portable and easy to transport.
How to Serve
Pimiento Cheese Finger Sandwiches are incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways, making them suitable for numerous occasions. Their elegant and bite-sized nature makes them perfect for appetizers, snacks, tea parties, and light lunches. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your pimiento cheese finger sandwich experience:
- Classic Tea Party Setting:
- Arrange the finger sandwiches beautifully on a tiered serving platter.
- Serve alongside other classic tea sandwiches like cucumber sandwiches, egg salad sandwiches, and smoked salmon canapés.
- Offer a selection of fine teas, both hot and iced, such as Earl Grey, Darjeeling, or herbal infusions.
- Complement the sandwiches with delicate pastries, scones with clotted cream and jam, and fruit tarts for a traditional afternoon tea spread.
- Elegant Appetizer Platter:
- Incorporate pimiento cheese finger sandwiches into a larger appetizer platter for cocktail parties or gatherings.
- Pair them with other savory bites like:
- Olive and cheese skewers
- Prosciutto-wrapped melon
- Mini quiches or tarts
- Vegetable crudités with dips
- Garnish the platter with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for visual appeal.
- Southern-Inspired Brunch or Lunch:
- Feature pimiento cheese finger sandwiches as part of a Southern-style brunch or light lunch menu.
- Serve them with:
- A refreshing side salad with a light vinaigrette
- A cup of creamy tomato soup or gazpacho
- Fresh fruit salad
- Sweet tea or lemonade
- Consider adding other Southern favorites to the menu like deviled eggs, coleslaw, or biscuits.
- Casual Snack or Picnic:
- Pack pimiento cheese finger sandwiches for a delightful picnic or outdoor gathering.
- They are easy to transport and enjoy at room temperature.
- Pair them with:
- Potato chips or pretzels
- Fresh fruit like grapes or berries
- Iced tea, lemonade, or sparkling water
- Cookies or brownies for dessert
- Creative Garnishes and Presentations:
- Garnish with Pimiento Strips: Top each finger sandwich with a thin strip of pimiento for an extra visual cue and a pop of flavor.
- Sprinkle with Paprika: A light dusting of paprika on top of the sandwiches adds a touch of color and a subtle smoky note.
- Fresh Parsley or Chives: Garnish with finely chopped fresh parsley or chives for a fresh herbal element and visual appeal.
- Variety of Shapes: Use different cookie cutters to create a variety of shapes beyond squares and circles, such as triangles, stars, or hearts, especially for themed events or children’s parties.
- Serve with Dips: While delicious on their own, you can also offer a small bowl of extra mayonnaise or a light vinaigrette for dipping, if desired.
By considering these serving suggestions and presentation ideas, you can tailor your pimiento cheese finger sandwiches to perfectly suit any occasion, from formal tea parties to casual picnics.
Additional Tips
To ensure your Pimiento Cheese Finger Sandwiches are absolutely perfect every time, here are five helpful tips to keep in mind:
- Use High-Quality Cheese: The flavor of pimiento cheese relies heavily on the quality of the cheddar cheese. Opt for a good quality extra-sharp cheddar. Consider using a block of cheese and grating it yourself for the best flavor and texture. Pre-shredded cheese can sometimes contain anti-caking agents that can affect the creaminess of the spread. Experiment with different types of cheddar, such as aged cheddar or white cheddar, to find your preferred flavor profile.
- Don’t Skip Softening the Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese is absolutely crucial for a smooth and creamy pimiento cheese spread. If the cream cheese is cold, it will be difficult to incorporate properly and you may end up with a lumpy mixture. Allow the cream cheese to come to room temperature for at least 30 minutes to an hour, or gently microwave it in short intervals until softened.
- Drain Pimientos Thoroughly: Excess moisture from the pimientos can make the pimiento cheese spread too runny and dilute the flavor. Make sure to drain the pimientos extremely well before chopping and adding them to the mixture. You can even gently pat them dry with paper towels to remove any excess liquid.
- Adjust Seasoning to Taste: While the recipe provides a guideline for cayenne pepper and lemon juice, taste the pimiento cheese mixture after combining all the ingredients and adjust the seasoning to your liking. You may want to add a bit more cayenne for extra heat, more lemon juice for brightness, or a pinch of salt and black pepper to enhance the overall flavor. Remember to add seasonings gradually and taste as you go.
- Make Ahead and Store Properly: Pimiento cheese finger sandwiches can be made ahead of time, which is a great advantage for party planning. Prepare the sandwiches as instructed, but before cutting them into finger sandwiches, wrap the assembled sandwiches tightly in plastic wrap. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 hours. Cut and shape them just before serving to prevent the bread from becoming soggy. Do not store them for longer periods as the bread can become stale and the cheese spread may lose some of its fresh flavor. For the best results, prepare them no more than a few hours in advance.
By following these additional tips, you’ll be well-equipped to create consistently delicious and impressive Pimiento Cheese Finger Sandwiches that are sure to be a hit with everyone who tries them.
FAQ Section
Here are some frequently asked questions about Pimiento Cheese Finger Sandwiches, addressing common queries and providing helpful information to ensure your success in making this classic recipe:
Q1: Can I make pimiento cheese ahead of time?
A: Yes, absolutely! In fact, making the pimiento cheese spread ahead of time can be beneficial as it allows the flavors to meld together even more beautifully. You can prepare the pimiento cheese spread up to 2-3 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to assemble the sandwiches, simply spread the chilled pimiento cheese on your bread.
Q2: What if I don’t have pumpernickel bread? Can I use other types of bread?
A: Yes, you can definitely use other types of bread if you don’t have pumpernickel or prefer a different flavor. White bread, wheat bread, rye bread, or even brioche bread are all suitable alternatives. Choose a soft bread that slices easily and complements the flavor of the pimiento cheese. For a gluten-free option, consider using gluten-free bread slices.
Q3: Can I make pimiento cheese spicier?
A: Yes, if you prefer a spicier pimiento cheese, you can easily adjust the level of heat. Increase the amount of cayenne pepper to your liking. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture for extra spice. Taste as you go and adjust the spice level gradually until you reach your desired heat.
Q4: How long do pimiento cheese finger sandwiches last?
A: Pimiento cheese finger sandwiches are best enjoyed fresh, ideally within a few hours of assembly. If you need to make them ahead of time, you can assemble the sandwiches (without cutting them into finger sandwiches) and wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 hours. Longer storage can make the bread soggy. For the best quality and freshness, it’s recommended to assemble them closer to serving time.
Q5: Can I freeze pimiento cheese?
A: While you can technically freeze pimiento cheese spread, it’s generally not recommended as the texture may change upon thawing. The mayonnaise and cream cheese can sometimes separate, resulting in a slightly grainy or less creamy texture. If you do need to freeze it, store it in an airtight container for up to 1-2 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and stir well before using. However, for the best flavor and texture, it’s always preferable to make pimiento cheese fresh.
This FAQ section aims to address common questions and concerns, providing you with the confidence and information you need to make perfect Pimiento Cheese Finger Sandwiches every time. Enjoy creating and savoring this Southern classic!
