Ingredients
— The Bread & Veggies —
1 loaf soft white or whole wheat sandwich bread (about 10-12 slices)
1 medium English cucumber, peeled and cut into very thin matchsticks (julienned)
— Herbed Cream Cheese Spread —
8 oz (1 block) cream cheese, softened to room temperature
2 tablespoons fresh dill, finely chopped
1 tablespoon fresh chives, finely chopped
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
1. **Make the Herbed Cream Cheese:** In a small bowl, use a fork or hand mixer to blend the softened cream cheese, chopped dill, chives, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until completely smooth and creamy. Set aside.
2. **Prep the Bread:** Using a sharp serrated knife, cut the crusts off all the slices of bread. Place one slice of crustless bread on a cutting board. Using a rolling pin, gently roll the bread until it is flattened and pliable. *This crucial step prevents the bread from cracking when rolled!* Repeat with remaining slices.
3. **Spread the Filling:** Spread a thin, even layer of the cream cheese mixture completely over one side of each flattened bread slice, making sure to reach all the way to the edges.
4. **Add the Cucumber:** Arrange a small, single row of julienned cucumber matchsticks along the bottom edge of the bread slice. *Pro tip: Pat the cucumber sticks completely dry with a paper towel first so they don’t make the bread soggy!*
5. **Roll Tightly:** Starting from the side with the cucumbers, tightly roll the bread up into a log. The cream cheese spread at the far edge will act as ‘glue’ to seal the roll completely closed.
6. **Chill and Slice:** Wrap each rolled log tightly in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight). Once firm, unwrap and use a sharp serrated knife to slice each log into 3 to 4 bite-sized pinwheels. Serve cold and enjoy!
Notes
Preventing Cracks: The softer and fresher the bread, the better it will roll without tearing. If your bread feels a bit dry, you can place the slices between two very slightly damp paper towels for 10 seconds before rolling with the rolling pin.
Make Ahead Tips: You can prepare the uncut logs up to 24 hours in advance. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in the fridge. Wait to slice them into pinwheels until right before you are ready to serve so the bread doesn’t dry out.
Variations: Feel free to layer in very thin slices of smoked salmon, turkey breast, or even a sprinkle of shredded carrots for extra color and flavor.
Dairy-Free/Vegan Option: Swap out the traditional cream cheese for your favorite smooth, plant-based cream cheese alternative.
- Prep Time: 20
- Category: Appetizer / Snack
- Method: No Cook
- Cuisine: American / British
- Diet: Vegetarian