Save Adorable mini bagel sandwiches decorated as snowmen—perfect for a festive holiday lunch. These fun, customizable sandwiches are ideal for kids and adults alike.
I have always enjoyed making these mini bagel snowmen with my family during the holidays; they bring smiles to both kids and adults.
Ingredients
- Bagels & Spreads: 8 mini bagels sliced in half, 180 g (6 oz) cream cheese softened (plain or flavored)
- Vegetables & Decoration: 16 small black olives sliced (for eyes and buttons), 8 baby carrots cut into thin strips (for noses), 16 thin cucumber rounds (for scarves), 8 red bell pepper strips (for scarves or hats), 16 capers or black peppercorns (for mouth), 2 tablespoons chives finely chopped (optional, for extra decoration)
- Optional Fillings: 8 slices cheddar or Swiss cheese, 8 slices turkey ham or vegetarian deli slices, Lettuce leaves
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Spread a generous layer of cream cheese on the bottom half of each mini bagel.
- Step 2:
- If desired, layer with cheese deli slices and lettuce. Top with the other half of the bagel.
- Step 3:
- Place each assembled bagel sandwich cut-side up (flat side up).
- Step 4:
- Decorate the top surface to look like a snowman face: Place two olive slices for eyes. Add a carrot strip for the nose. Arrange capers or peppercorns in a smile shape for the mouth. Use cucumber rounds and red pepper strips to create a scarf just below the face. Sprinkle with chives for a festive touch if desired.
- Step 5:
- Serve immediately or cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Save This recipe always brings my family together as we decorate the sandwiches and share laughs.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with vegetable sticks or fruit on the side for a complete lunch that everyone enjoys.
Variations
Try a sweet version by swapping cream cheese for whipped cream cheese with honey and use fruit for decoration.
Storage Tips
Store covered in the refrigerator and consume within 24 hours for optimal freshness.
Save Enjoy these festive mini bagel snowmen as a fun and easy holiday treat that brightens any table.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I prepare the sandwiches in advance?
Yes, you can assemble and decorate the mini bagel sandwiches ahead of time. Store them covered in the refrigerator for up to a few hours to keep them fresh.
- → What alternatives can I use for cream cheese?
You can use flavored cream cheese or whipped cream cheese with honey for a sweeter twist, or substitute with a soft cheese of your choice.
- → How do I keep the decorations in place?
Using small toothpicks can help secure the olive slices, carrot strips, and peppercorn smiles, but be sure to remove them before serving, especially to children.
- → Are there vegetarian options for fillings?
Yes, you can omit deli meats and use vegetarian cream cheese and cheese slices to keep these sandwiches vegetarian-friendly.
- → What tools are best for decorating?
A small paring knife for cutting veggies, a spreading knife for cream cheese, and a serrated knife for slicing bagels work best to create neat decorations.