Derby Party Pimento Cheese (Printable)

Creamy pimento cheese finger sandwiches pack Southern flavor and are easy for entertaining or afternoon snacks.

# Ingredient List:

→ Cheese Mixture

01 - 2 cups (8 oz) sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
02 - 4 oz cream cheese, softened
03 - 1/2 cup mayonnaise
04 - 1/4 cup jarred diced pimentos, drained
05 - 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
06 - 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
07 - 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper, optional
08 - 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
09 - 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

→ Sandwich Assembly

10 - 24 slices thin white sandwich bread, crusts removed
11 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened, optional

# Directions:

01 - In a mixing bowl, combine sharp cheddar cheese, cream cheese, and mayonnaise. Beat with a hand mixer or stir vigorously until smooth and creamy.
02 - Add diced pimentos, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper if desired, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Mix until thoroughly blended.
03 - Arrange bread slices on a work surface. Optionally, lightly spread one side of each slice with softened unsalted butter to prevent sogginess.
04 - Spoon approximately 2 tablespoons of pimento cheese mixture onto half the bread slices. Cover with remaining bread slices to form sandwiches.
05 - Using a sharp serrated knife, trim crusts if not already done, then cut each sandwich into thirds or quarters to produce finger-sized portions.
06 - Arrange sandwiches on a serving platter, cover with a damp paper towel, and refrigerate up to 4 hours until ready to serve.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Finger sandwiches disappear fast and leave guests craving just one more bite.
  • The creamy tang and gentle spice in the pimento cheese makes every sandwich unforgettable.
02 -
  • If you skip draining the pimentos, the filling runs and makes the bread soggy.
  • Softening the cream cheese fully speeds up mixing and prevents lumpy bits in every bite.
03 -
  • Let the cheese spread rest in the fridge for 30 minutes before assembling; it deepens the flavor and makes spreading easier.
  • Keep your knife clean as you slice––it prevents messy edges and keeps each sandwich looking sharp.
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