Derby Party Pimento Cheese (Printable)

Southern-style pimento cheese finger sandwiches perfect for entertaining and casual gatherings.

# What You Need:

→ 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 for mild heat
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 for spreading

# 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 -
  • Quick and easy with no cooking required—just 20 minutes from start to finish
  • Classic Southern flavor that's creamy, tangy, and subtly spiced with cayenne
  • Perfect for entertaining at Derby parties, showers, or afternoon tea gatherings
  • Makes 24 finger sandwiches, ideal for feeding a crowd
  • Vegetarian-friendly and endlessly customizable with your favorite add-ins
02 -
  • Use softened butter as a moisture barrier between the bread and filling to prevent soggy sandwiches
  • Grate your own cheddar cheese for the creamiest, smoothest pimento cheese spread
  • Cover assembled sandwiches with a damp paper towel when refrigerating to keep bread fresh
  • Make the pimento cheese mixture up to 3 days ahead and assemble sandwiches the day of your event
  • Use a serrated knife and wipe it clean between cuts for the neatest, most professional-looking finger sandwiches
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