Mini Grilled Cream Cheese Sandwiches are the perfect combination of simplicity, indulgence, and comfort. Crispy on the outside with a golden buttery crunch and irresistibly creamy on the inside, these mini sandwiches make an ideal snack, appetizer, or even a light meal.
The rich cream cheese filling can be customized with herbs, spices, or even sweet ingredients, making them incredibly versatile for both savory and sweet lovers.
Whether you’re hosting a brunch, prepping finger foods for a party, or just want something delicious with your afternoon tea, these mini grilled cream cheese sandwiches are a surefire hit. Their bite-sized nature makes them great for sharing—and trust me, they disappear fast!
Recipe Overview
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 4 (Makes 8 mini sandwiches)
- Calories per Serving: ~220 kcal
Ingredients
For the Sandwiches:
- 8 slices of white or whole wheat sandwich bread (crusts removed)
- 1 cup cream cheese (softened, full-fat or low-fat)
- 2 tablespoons fresh herbs (chives, parsley, or dill – finely chopped)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons butter (for grilling)
Optional Add-ins:
- Finely chopped jalapeños or olives (for a kick)
- Grated cheddar or mozzarella (for extra cheesiness)
- A teaspoon of garlic powder or Italian seasoning
Directions
Step-by-Step Preparation
- Prep the Filling
- In a medium bowl, mix the softened cream cheese with chopped herbs.
- Add a pinch of salt, black pepper, and any optional ingredients like garlic powder or jalapeños.
- Mix until smooth and creamy.
- Prepare the Bread
- Remove the crusts from the bread slices for a cleaner, uniform look.
- Using a rolling pin, lightly flatten each slice of bread. This helps seal the edges and gives them a better texture when grilled.
- Assemble the Sandwiches
- Spread a generous amount of the cream cheese mixture onto half the slices.
- Top with the remaining slices to form sandwiches.
- Gently press down on each sandwich to help it stick.
- Cut into Minis
- Cut each sandwich diagonally to form triangles or use a round cookie cutter to make small circular minis.
- You can also leave them as squares if preferred.
- Grill the Sandwiches
- Heat a skillet or non-stick pan over medium heat.
- Melt a little butter and place the mini sandwiches in the pan.
- Grill each side for 2–3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
- Flip carefully to avoid breaking the soft filling.
- Serve Hot
- Serve immediately while warm and crisp.
Why I Love This Recipe
These mini grilled cream cheese sandwiches are:
- Quick & Easy: No fancy ingredients or techniques required.
- Customizable: Go savory with herbs and spices or sweet with honey and fruits.
- Perfect for All Ages: Kids and adults alike enjoy their creamy, crispy texture.
- Crowd-Pleasers: Ideal for parties, brunch tables, or evening snacks.
Tips & Variations
Tips:
- Use freshly softened cream cheese to avoid tearing the bread.
- Flattening the bread helps seal in the cream cheese better.
- Grill on medium heat to avoid burning while ensuring the cheese gets warm and melty.
Variations:
- Sweet Version: Mix cream cheese with honey, cinnamon, or jam. Serve with powdered sugar dusting.
- Spicy Delight: Add chili flakes, sriracha, or chopped green chilies for heat.
- Cheese Explosion: Mix cream cheese with shredded mozzarella or cheddar for gooey richness.
- Veggie Mix: Add finely chopped bell peppers, corn, or onions for crunch and nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a side of ketchup, mint chutney, or hot sauce for dipping.
- Pair with tomato soup for a classic comfort combo.
- Include in high tea platters or as part of a brunch buffet.
- Garnish with microgreens or fresh herbs for presentation.
Conclusion
Mini Grilled Cream Cheese Sandwiches offer the best of both worlds—comforting and gourmet. They’re simple enough for a weekday snack and impressive enough for entertaining guests. This recipe is endlessly adaptable, kid-friendly, and a guaranteed hit. Whether you’re savoring them alone with a warm beverage or sharing with guests at a party, you’ll always find yourself reaching for just one more!
FAQs
Q1: Can I make these sandwiches ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare and refrigerate the assembled sandwiches (uncooked) for a few hours. Grill just before serving to keep them crispy.
Q2: Can I use flavored cream cheese?
Absolutely! Flavored cream cheese (like garlic herb or chili) adds depth. Just taste and adjust seasoning accordingly.
Q3: Can I use gluten-free or multigrain bread?
Yes, use any bread of your choice. Just make sure it’s soft enough to press and grill easily.
Q4: Can I bake them instead of grilling?
Yes! Brush with butter, place on a baking tray, and bake at 180°C (350°F) for 10–12 minutes, flipping once halfway.
Q5: What are the best dips to serve with these sandwiches?
Tomato ketchup, herbed yogurt dip, green chutney, or even ranch dressing work wonderfully.
Mini Grilled Cream Cheese Sandwiches Recipe
Course: Appetizers u0026amp; Snacks4
servings10
minutes10
minutes20
minutesIngredients
- For the Sandwiches:
8 slices of white or whole wheat sandwich bread (crusts removed)
1 cup cream cheese (softened, full-fat or low-fat)
2 tablespoons fresh herbs (chives, parsley, or dill – finely chopped)
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons butter (for grilling)
- Optional Add-ins:
Finely chopped jalapeños or olives (for a kick)
Grated cheddar or mozzarella (for extra cheesiness)
A teaspoon of garlic powder or Italian seasoning
Directions
- Prep the Filling In a medium bowl, mix the softened cream cheese with chopped herbs. Add a pinch of salt, black pepper, and any optional ingredients like garlic powder or jalapenos. Mix until smooth and creamy.
- Prepare the Bread Remove the crusts from the bread slices for a cleaner, uniform look. Using a rolling pin, lightly flatten each slice of bread. This helps seal the edges and gives them a better texture when grilled.
- Assemble the Sandwiches Spread a generous amount of the cream cheese mixture onto half the slices. Top with the remaining slices to form sandwiches. Gently press down on each sandwich to help it stick.
- Cut into Minis Cut each sandwich diagonally to form triangles or use a round cookie cutter to make small circular minis. You can also leave them as squares if preferred.
- Grill the Sandwiches Heat a skillet or non-stick pan over medium heat. Melt a little butter and place the mini sandwiches in the pan. Grill each side for 2–3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Flip carefully to avoid breaking the soft filling.
- Serve Hot Serve immediately while warm and crisp.