Crisp elf shoe-shaped toast bites, great for festive brunches, topped with fresh and savory spreads.
# What You Need:
→ Bread
01 - 8 slices sandwich bread (white, whole wheat, or brioche)
→ Toppings & Garnishes
02 - 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
03 - 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
04 - 1/4 cup strawberry jam
05 - 1/4 cup sliced cucumbers
06 - 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
07 - 1/4 cup mini mozzarella balls (bocconcini)
08 - Fresh herbs (parsley, basil) for garnish
09 - 2 tbsp sprinkles or colored sugar (optional, for sweet versions)
→ Optional Extras
10 - 1/4 cup smoked salmon
11 - 1/4 cup prosciutto
12 - 1/4 cup hummus
# How-To:
01 - Preheat the oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
02 - Cut each bread slice into an elf shoe shape using a sharp knife or elf shoe-shaped cookie cutter. Reserve or discard scraps.
03 - Arrange shaped bread pieces on the baking sheet and brush lightly with melted butter.
04 - Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden and crisp. Allow to cool slightly.
05 - Place the toast bites onto a serving board, dividing into savory and sweet sections as desired.
06 - Top savory bites with cream cheese, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, smoked salmon, prosciutto, or hummus. Garnish with fresh herbs.
07 - Spread sweet bites with cream cheese and strawberry jam, then decorate with sprinkles or colored sugar.
08 - Serve immediately, offering extra toppings and spreads on the side.