Introduction

These Cucumber-Dill Canapés are a refreshing and elegant appetizer perfect for entertaining. Crisp cucumber slices paired with a creamy dill spread atop soft bread create a delightful bite-sized treat. Easy to prepare and sure to impress your guests!

The image shows a row of small, round appetizers on a long white plate set on a white marbled surface. Each appetizer has three layers: a bottom layer of soft beige bread with a slightly rough texture, a middle layer of creamy white spread with green herb bits, and a thick top layer of light green cucumber slice that has a smooth and moist look. In the center of each cucumber slice is a dollop of creamy white sauce with herbs, topped with a small green sprig of dill standing upright. The focus is on the nearest appetizer, with the others gradually blurring toward the background photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 English cucumbers (Hot House; a bit larger than 1¾-inch diameter)
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 bunch fresh dill (about 1 ounce)
Salt and cayenne pepper to taste
9 slices whole grain or white sandwich bread

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the cucumbers by slicing each one into approximately 18 slices, about ¼ to ½ inch wide, laid flat on a cutting surface. Use a 1¾ inch round cutter to remove the skin from each cucumber slice. Then, with a 1 inch round cutter, remove the center seeds from each slice to create a hole for the dill mixture later.
Step 2: Wrap the prepared cucumber slices in plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to assemble. Cover a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside. Remove 4 sprigs of dill from the bunch and keep them chilled for garnish.
Step 3: Make the dill spread by blending cream cheese, butter, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and the remaining dill in a food processor. Blend until very smooth and the dill is finely chopped. Season generously with salt and cayenne pepper, then blend once more to combine.
Step 4: Spread a thin, even layer of the dill spread on one side of each bread slice using a small offset spatula. Place the remaining dill spread in a zip-lock bag, cut a small corner off, and set aside at room temperature for filling.
Step 5: Using the 1¾ inch round cutter, cut about 4 rounds from each slice of dill-spread-covered bread. Place the rounds on the prepared baking sheet. Press gently in the center of each round with your finger to release them from the cutter.
Step 6: Place one cucumber slice on top of each bread round. Fill the holes in the cucumber slices with the dill spread from the zip-lock bag. Smooth the top with a fingertip moistened with water.
Step 7: Garnish each canapé with tiny sprigs of the reserved dill. Keep the canapés chilled until ready to serve.

Tips & Variations

For a gluten-free option, substitute the sandwich bread with your favorite gluten-free bread or crackers.
Use fresh lemon juice for a brighter flavor in the dill spread.
Add a pinch of smoked paprika to the spread for a subtle smoky twist.
Chilling the cucumber slices helps keep the canapés fresh and crisp.

Storage

Store assembled canapés covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. To prevent the bread from becoming soggy, assemble the canapés no more than a few hours before serving. Reheat is not recommended; serve chilled for best texture and flavor.

How to Serve

The image shows a row of three small, round appetizers placed on a long white rectangular plate on a white marbled surface. Each appetizer has two main layers: the bottom layer is a soft light beige bread or cracker base, and the top layer is a thick, pale green cucumber slice hollowed in the center. Inside the hollow of the cucumber is a creamy, pale off-white spread mixed with small green herb bits, topped with a small sprig of fresh dill standing upright. The colors are fresh and light, with the pale green cucumber contrasting softly against the creamy filling and bread base. The arrangement is neat and aligned in a straight line. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare the cucumber slices in advance?

Yes, you can prepare and refrigerate the cucumber slices wrapped in plastic wrap for up to 24 hours before assembly to save time.

What can I use instead of fresh dill?

If fresh dill is unavailable, dried dill can be used but use sparingly as it has a stronger flavor. Fresh dill is preferred for the best taste and texture.