Save Bring some festive cheer to your brunch table with these whimsical Elf Shoe Shaped Toast Bites. Crispy and golden, they’re not only fun to make but perfectly sized for dipping or topping with a variety of sweet and savory spreads. Whether for a holiday gathering or a playful weekend snack, these delightful bites add a touch of magic to any occasion.
Save The crisp texture of the toast contrasts beautifully with creamy spreads and fresh toppings, creating a harmonious bite every time. These toast bites can be tailored to any taste, from refreshing cucumber and tomato to indulgent smoked salmon or sweet strawberry jam and sprinkles. The festive flair of the elf shoe shape is sure to delight guests of all ages.
Ingredients
- Bread: 8 slices sandwich bread (white, whole wheat, or brioche)
- Toppings & Garnishes: 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted; 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened; 1/4 cup strawberry jam; 1/4 cup sliced cucumbers; 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/4 cup mini mozzarella balls (bocconcini); fresh herbs (parsley, basil) for garnish; 2 tbsp sprinkles or colored sugar (optional, for sweet versions)
- Optional Extras: 1/4 cup smoked salmon; 1/4 cup prosciutto; 1/4 cup hummus
Instructions
- 1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- 2. Using a sharp knife or elf shoe-shaped cookie cutter, cut each bread slice into an elf shoe shape. Reserve scraps for breadcrumbs or discard.
- 3. Arrange the elf shoe-shaped bread pieces on the prepared baking sheet. Brush lightly with melted butter.
- 4. Bake for 8–10 minutes, turning halfway, until golden and crisp. Allow to cool slightly.
- 5. Arrange the toast bites on a serving board. Divide into savory and sweet sections as desired.
- 6. For savory bites, top with cream cheese, cucumber, cherry tomato, mozzarella, salmon, prosciutto, or hummus as desired. Garnish with fresh herbs.
- 7. For sweet bites, spread with cream cheese and strawberry jam. Decorate with sprinkles or colored sugar.
- 8. Serve immediately with extra toppings and spreads on the side.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free sandwich bread to make these toast bites accessible to all. Kids will love helping to cut out the elf shoe shapes—using a template can make this easier if you don’t have a cutter. This recipe is highly adaptable, so feel free to experiment with different bread types and toppings to find your perfect combination.
Varianten und Anpassungen
Try swapping toppings to suit your preferences: nut butter and banana slices make a delicious sweet twist, while avocado and radish give a fresh, savory option. Adding a sprinkle of food-safe edible glitter can elevate your presentation for special occasions. The optional extras like smoked salmon, prosciutto, or hummus add layers of flavor for more decadent bites.
Serviervorschläge
Serve your Elf Shoe Shaped Toast Bites on a festive brunch board, dividing sweet and savory sections for visual appeal and variety. Pair with extra spreads and garnishes in small bowls to encourage guests to create their own perfect bite. These toast bites are ideal as appetizers, party snacks, or part of a holiday brunch spread.
Save With its charming shape and endless topping possibilities, Elf Shoe Shaped Toast Bites bring a dose of fun and flavor to your table. Whether enjoyed sweet or savory, they make every bite feel like a special occasion. Get festive, get creative, and watch these delightful bites become a holiday favorite.
Recipe Help & Answers
- → What bread types work best for these toast bites?
White, whole wheat, or brioche bread slices all crisp well and hold the elf shoe shape nicely.
- → How do I shape the bread into elf shoes?
Use a sharp knife or an elf shoe-shaped cookie cutter to cut each slice precisely before baking.
- → Can I prepare these ahead of time?
Toast the shaped bread in advance, but add toppings just before serving to keep freshness and texture.
- → What toppings complement the crisp toast bites?
Sweet options include cream cheese and strawberry jam, while savory choices feature mozzarella, smoked salmon, and fresh herbs.
- → Are there gluten-free alternatives?
Yes, substitute with gluten-free sandwich bread to accommodate dietary needs without compromising texture.