Derby Party Pimento Cheese (Print)

Southern-style pimento cheese sandwiches with sharp cheddar and creamy mayonnaise, ideal for parties and snacks.

# What You Need:

→ Cheese Mixture

01 - 2 cups 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
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

# Steps:

01 - Combine cheddar cheese, cream cheese, and mayonnaise in a medium bowl. Beat with a hand mixer or stir vigorously until smooth and creamy.
02 - Add diced pimentos, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Mix until evenly incorporated.
03 - Lay out bread slices. Lightly spread one side of each slice with softened butter to prevent sogginess.
04 - Evenly spread pimento cheese mixture on half of the bread slices, approximately 2 tablespoons per slice. Top with remaining bread slices to form sandwiches.
05 - Using a sharp serrated knife, trim off crusts and cut each sandwich into thirds or quarters to create uniform finger sandwiches.
06 - Arrange on a platter, cover with a damp paper towel, and refrigerate until serving, up to 4 hours.

# Top Tips:

01 -
  • Ready in just 20 minutes with no cooking required
  • Classic Southern flavors with creamy sharp cheddar and sweet pimentos
  • Perfect make-ahead appetizer that can be prepared up to a day in advance
  • Elegant finger sandwiches ideal for Derby parties, showers, or tea gatherings
  • Simple ingredients you likely already have on hand
  • Customizable heat level with optional cayenne pepper
02 -
  • Grate your own cheddar cheese for the creamiest, smoothest texture
  • Let cream cheese soften at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before mixing
  • Drain pimentos thoroughly and pat dry to prevent excess moisture
  • Use a damp paper towel cover to keep sandwiches fresh without making them soggy
  • Make the pimento cheese spread a day ahead to let flavors meld
  • Cut sandwiches just before serving for the neatest edges
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