Derby Pimento Cheese Sandwiches (Printable Version)

Southern-style pimento cheese finger sandwiches ideal for Derby parties and light entertaining.

# What You'll 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
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

# 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 throughout the cheese mixture.
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, using approximately 2 tablespoons per slice. Top with remaining bread slices to form complete 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-sized portions.
06 - Arrange on a platter, cover with a damp paper towel, and refrigerate until serving, up to 4 hours.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • Quick and easy to prepare in just 20 minutes with no cooking required
  • Perfect make-ahead appetizer that can be prepared up to a day in advance
  • Classic Southern flavor that appeals to guests of all ages
  • Elegant presentation ideal for Derby parties, showers, and afternoon gatherings
  • Vegetarian-friendly option that doesn't compromise on taste
02 -
  • Make the pimento cheese spread a day ahead to allow flavors to meld—it actually tastes better after resting overnight
  • Use a cookie cutter to create fun shapes like circles, hearts, or horse silhouettes for Derby-themed parties
  • Keep sandwiches covered with a damp paper towel until serving time to prevent the bread from drying out
  • Store any leftover pimento cheese spread in an airtight container for up to one week—it's delicious on crackers or as a burger topping
  • For easier spreading, let the pimento cheese sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before assembling sandwiches
Go Back