Derby Party Pimento Cheese (Printable Version)

Southern-style creamy pimento cheese finger sandwiches, perfect for entertaining and party occasions.

# Ingredient List:

→ 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, 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 medium bowl, combine 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 using, salt, and black pepper. Mix until evenly incorporated.
03 - Lay out the bread slices. If desired, 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 if not already done and cut each sandwich into thirds or quarters to make finger sandwiches.
06 - Arrange on a platter, cover with a damp paper towel, and refrigerate until serving, up to 4 hours.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • They come together in twenty minutes flat, leaving you time to actually enjoy your party instead of hiding in the kitchen.
  • The pimento cheese stays creamy and doesn't seep through the bread if you use this one small trick with the butter.
  • People always ask for the recipe, and you'll love telling them it's been in your family forever (even if you just discovered it today).
02 -
  • Don't skip draining the pimentos—I learned this the wet way when a batch turned soggy by the time the third race rolled around.
  • The butter layer between bread and cheese genuinely changes the game; it's a small step that makes a dramatic difference in texture and longevity.
03 -
  • Fresh grated cheese and softened cream cheese are non-negotiable; they're the only way to get that smooth, spreadable texture that makes these sandwiches special.
  • The butter trick prevents sogginess in a way that nothing else can, so don't skip it even though it feels optional.
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