Snowball Tea Sandwich Bites
Snowball Tea Sandwich Bites
Snowball tea sandwich bites are delightful little treats that combine a rich filling with a fun coconut coating. These bites bring a touch of elegance to any gathering, making them perfect for afternoon tea, parties, or special celebrations. The soft bread and creamy mixture create a deliciously satisfying experience in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Snowball Tea Sandwich Bites
These snowball tea sandwich bites are not only visually appealing but also bursting with flavor. They’re easy to make and offer a unique twist on the classic tea sandwich. The combination of cream cheese, fresh herbs, and coconut creates a light and refreshing taste that everyone will enjoy. Plus, they are small enough to pop into your mouth, making them a perfect finger food for any occasion.
How to Make Snowball Tea Sandwich Bites
Ingredients:
- 10 slices soft white sandwich bread, crusts removed
- 3.5 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
- 1 tbsp mayonnaise
- 1 tsp fresh chives, finely chopped
- 1 tsp fresh dill, finely chopped
- 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1/4 tsp fine sea salt
- 3/4 cup sweetened shredded coconut
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- In a bowl, combine cream cheese, butter, mayonnaise, chives, dill, black pepper, and salt. Blend until smooth and homogeneous.
- Lay the bread slices on a clean surface and spread an even layer of filling over each slice.
- Place a second slice of bread atop each filled slice to form 5 sandwiches. Press gently to adhere.
- Using a 1.5-inch round cookie cutter, cut 4 circles from each sandwich.
- Spread shredded coconut evenly on a plate for coating.
- Lightly brush the edges of each bite with water or extra cream cheese to enable coconut adherence.
- Roll the sides and tops of each sandwich bite in the shredded coconut, creating a snowball appearance.
- Arrange coated bites on a platter and refrigerate for 10 minutes to set.
How to Serve Snowball Tea Sandwich Bites
These snowball tea sandwich bites are best served chilled. Arrange them on a beautiful platter for an appealing presentation at your next gathering. Serve alongside a refreshing beverage, such as grape juice or sparkling beverages, to complement the flavors. They make ideal appetizers or snacks for kids and adults alike.
How to Store Snowball Tea Sandwich Bites
Store any leftover snowball tea sandwich bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They are best enjoyed within two days for optimal freshness. If you need to prepare them in advance, consider storing the filling separately and coating the bites with coconut just before serving to keep them looking fresh.
Tips to Make Snowball Tea Sandwich Bites Perfect
- Use fresh herbs: Fresh chives and dill add vibrant flavors. If these herbs are unavailable, you can use other herbs like parsley or basil for a different taste.
- Choose the right bread: Soft white sandwich bread works best, but you can substitute with whole wheat or sourdough if you prefer a different flavor.
- Adjust the coconut: If you want a more subtle coconut flavor, you can reduce the amount of shredded coconut or experiment with different toppings like crushed nuts.
Flavor Variations
Feel free to get creative with these snowball tea sandwich bites. Here are some variations to try:
- Vegetable Delight: Add finely chopped bell peppers and cucumbers to the cream cheese mixture for a crunchy texture.
- Smoked Turkey: Incorporate thinly sliced smoked turkey into the filling for a heartier flavor.
- Fruit Twist: Mix in finely chopped fruits, such as apples or cranberries, for a sweet touch and a burst of color.
Pro Tips for Success
- Make the filling in advance: Prepare the cream cheese filling a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator to let the flavors develop.
- Use a serrated knife: When cutting the crusts off the bread, a serrated knife works best for clean edges.
- Don’t skip the refrigeration step: Chilling the bites helps the coconut adhere better and keeps them from falling apart.
FAQs About Snowball Tea Sandwich Bites
Can I use other types of bread for this recipe?
Yes, while soft white sandwich bread is preferred, you can use whole grain, rye, or gluten-free bread. Just ensure that it maintains a soft texture for easy biting.
What can I serve these sandwich bites with?
They pair beautifully with various beverages like sparkling juice, iced tea, or lemonade. You can also add some fresh fruits or vegetables on the platter for a balanced spread.
Can I freeze snowball tea sandwich bites?
Freezing is not recommended as it may affect the texture of the bread and the coconut coating. However, you can prepare the filling and freeze it for later use, then make the sandwich bites fresh when you are ready.
Final Thoughts
Snowball tea sandwich bites are delightful, easy-to-make treats that brighten up any gathering with their unique appearance and delicious flavors. From their creamy filling to the sweet coconut coating, they are sure to win over your guests and create memorable dining experiences. Try making them for your next event, and watch as everyone enjoys this fun and tasty snack!
Snowball Tea Sandwich Bites
Ingredients
Bread and Filling
- 10 slices soft white sandwich bread, crusts removed Can substitute with whole wheat or sourdough.
- 3.5 oz cream cheese, softened Ensure it's fully softened for easy mixing.
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened Should be at room temperature.
- 1 tbsp mayonnaise Adds creaminess to the filling.
- 1 tsp fresh chives, finely chopped Can use parsley or other herbs if unavailable.
- 1 tsp fresh dill, finely chopped Optional, can be substituted.
- 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper Adjust to taste.
- 1/4 tsp fine sea salt Adjust to taste.
Coating
- 3/4 cup sweetened shredded coconut
Instructions
Preparation
- In a bowl, combine cream cheese, butter, mayonnaise, chives, dill, black pepper, and salt. Blend until smooth and homogeneous.
- Lay the bread slices on a clean surface and spread an even layer of filling over each slice.
- Place a second slice of bread atop each filled slice to form 5 sandwiches. Press gently to adhere.
- Using a 1.5-inch round cookie cutter, cut 4 circles from each sandwich.
- Spread shredded coconut evenly on a plate for coating.
- Lightly brush the edges of each bite with water or extra cream cheese to enable coconut adherence.
- Roll the sides and tops of each sandwich bite in the shredded coconut, creating a snowball appearance.
- Arrange coated bites on a platter and refrigerate for 10 minutes to set.
