Save to Pinterest Bring a touch of holiday whimsy to your brunch table with these Elf Shoe Shaped Toast Bites. Crispy and golden, each toast bite is meticulously cut into a festive elf shoe shape, making them not only a delicious treat but also a playful centerpiece. Perfect for both sweet and savory toppings, these bites invite creativity and fun, whether they're part of a holiday spread or a cheerful weekend brunch.
Save to Pinterest The combination of crisp texture and creative presentation makes these elf shoe toast bites a guaranteed hit with guests of all ages. Whether topped with creamy herb-laden spreads or fruity jam and sprinkles, each bite sparks joy and conversation. They’re not only fun to eat but also fun to make, inviting kids and adults alike to join in the festive prep.
Ingredients
- 8 slices sandwich bread (white, whole wheat, or brioche)
- 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)
- 1/4 cup smoked salmon (optional)
- 1/4 cup prosciutto (optional)
- 1/4 cup hummus (optional)
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 adaptation, substitute the sandwich bread with your preferred gluten-free variety. Kids will especially enjoy helping to cut out the elf shoe shapes, so consider using a template if a cookie cutter is not available to keep the shapes consistent and fun.
Varianten und Anpassungen
Feel free to swap out toppings to suit your taste or dietary needs. Nut butters paired with banana slices create a delicious sweet alternative, while avocado and radish add a fresh twist to savory bites. A sprinkle of food-safe edible glitter can add an extra festive sparkle.
Serviervorschläge
Serve these elf shoe toast bites on a vibrant brunch board alongside bowls of assorted spreads and toppings. Group sweet and savory varieties separately for easy selection. Fresh herbs not only add a pop of color but also elevate the flavors beautifully.
Save to Pinterest These Elf Shoe Shaped Toast Bites are sure to become a holiday favorite, charming guests and brightening any brunch occasion. Their playful shape combined with versatile toppings makes them a delightful way to celebrate with creativity and flavor.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of bread works best for these toast bites?
Sandwich breads such as white, whole wheat, or brioche hold shape well and toast crisply when baked.
- → Can I make gluten-free versions?
Yes, substituting with gluten-free sandwich bread produces excellent results while keeping the crisp texture.
- → How do I shape the bread into elf shoes?
Use a sharp knife or an elf shoe-shaped cookie cutter for uniform shapes; kids can help with this fun step.
- → What are some topping ideas for savory bites?
Try cream cheese, cucumber slices, cherry tomatoes, mini mozzarella balls, smoked salmon, prosciutto, or hummus garnished with fresh herbs.
- → How can I prepare sweet versions of these toast bites?
Spread softened cream cheese and strawberry jam, then decorate with sprinkles or colored sugar for festive appeal.
- → What cooking tools are recommended?
An elf shoe cookie cutter or sharp paring knife, baking sheet, pastry brush, and small bowls for toppings help streamline preparation.