These Cucumber and Cream Cheese Bites are a fresh and tasty snack! Crunchy cucumber slices topped with creamy cheese make for the perfect little treat.
They’re so easy to whip up, even I can do it! Just spread the cream cheese on the cucumbers, and you’re ready to impress your friends. They always disappear fast at parties!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumber: A large cucumber works best for these bites. If you can’t find one, pick smaller cucumbers like Persian or English cucumbers, which are sweeter and have fewer seeds. Personally, I tend to prefer English cucumbers for their crunch!
Cream Cheese: Regular cream cheese is classic, but you can try a flavored one if you want to mix things up! Herb or garlic cream cheese adds an extra flavor punch. For a lighter option, use Neufchâtel cheese as it’s lower in fat.
Garlic: I love using fresh garlic for that punchy flavor, but if you’re short on time, garlic powder does the job too. If you’re worried about garlic breath, consider omitting it altogether!
Seasonings: Everything bagel seasoning adds wonderful texture and flavor. If you don’t have it, try using a mix of sesame seeds and dried onion. Fresh dill is also a nice touch, but feel free to use chives or parsley as alternatives.
How Can I Make the Cream Cheese Mixture Extra Smooth?
To get that perfectly smooth cream cheese mixture, make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature. It blends more easily when softened. Here’s my trick:
- Use a hand mixer or food processor for an ultra-smooth texture—blending is key!
- Add a splash of milk to loosen it up if it’s too thick for your liking.
- Mix in seasonings slowly to adjust to your taste preferences.
A creamy mixture spreads easily on the cucumber slices without making a mess. Enjoy these bites as a light snack or party treat! They’re always a crowd-pleaser.
How to Make Cucumber And Cream Cheese Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 large cucumber
- 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder or finely minced fresh garlic
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon everything bagel seasoning (optional)
- Fresh dill sprigs, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful appetizer will take you about 10-15 minutes to prepare, making it quick and easy. There’s no cooking involved, just slicing and mixing, plus a little time in the fridge if you want them extra cool!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cucumber:
Start by washing the cucumber thoroughly to remove any dirt. Slice it into rounds that are about 1/2-inch thick. Aim for even slices so they look nice on your platter!
2. Mix the Cream Cheese:
In a small bowl, take your softened cream cheese and add in the garlic powder (or fresh minced garlic), salt, and black pepper. Use a fork or a mixer to blend it all together until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This will make it nice and easy to spread!
3. Assemble the Bites:
Now, it’s time to assemble! Use a spoon or a piping bag to place a generous dollop of the cream cheese mixture on top of each cucumber slice. Make it as fancy or as simple as you like!
4. Add Seasonings:
If you’re using everything bagel seasoning, sprinkle some on top of the cream cheese layer to give that delightful flavor and crunch. Feel free to adjust based on your taste!
5. Garnish:
Top off each cucumber bite with a small sprig of fresh dill for a lovely, fresh presentation. It adds a nice touch and enhances the flavor too!
6. Serve:
Arrange these tasty bites on a serving platter. They can be enjoyed right away, or you can pop them in the fridge for up to 1 hour for chilling. They’re perfect for parties, snacks, or just because you want something delicious!
These cucumber and cream cheese bites are not only easy to make but also a refreshing snack option that everyone will love!
Can I Use Low-Fat Cream Cheese?
Absolutely! Low-fat cream cheese works just as well in this recipe. It will still give you that creamy texture and flavor, but with fewer calories. Just make sure it’s softened for easy mixing!
How Do I Store Leftover Cucumber And Cream Cheese Bites?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, be aware that the cucumbers may become slightly soggy over time, so it’s best to consume them as soon as possible for optimal crunch!
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the cream cheese mixture a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just slice the cucumber and assemble the bites right before serving to keep them fresh and crisp!
What Other Toppings Can I Use Besides Everything Bagel Seasoning?
Feel free to get creative! You could sprinkle chopped chives, paprika, or any fresh herbs you love on top. Crushed nuts like walnuts or pistachios also add a nice crunch!