Walnut Dreams
Walnut Dreams are elegant, savory finger sandwiches featuring a creamy walnut and sherry-flavored spread. Perfect for entertaining or teatime, they combine rich cream cheese, chopped California walnuts, and a hint of paprika, garnished with stuffed olives for a sophisticated touch that appeals to guests and food enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine cream cheese, butter or margarine, salt, finely chopped California walnuts, sherry flavoring, and a dash of paprika in a mixing bowl.
- Cut crusts from slices of bread and then cut each slice into 4 squares to make small sandwiches.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture onto the bread squares.
- Garnish each sandwich with stuffed olive slices.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, let the cream cheese soften at room temperature before mixing. If sherry flavoring is unavailable, a splash of white wine vinegar can work as a substitute. You can also use any type of nuts you prefer, but walnuts provide a lovely crunch. Make sure to finely chop them to blend well with the cream cheese mixture. For a sweet twist, consider serving alongside Vegetarian Chocolate Chip Cookies.
Serving Suggestions
These Walnut Dreams make a delightful appetizer or party snack. Serve them alongside a refreshing drink like sangria or a light salad for a complete meal. For a more festive touch, consider pairing with Asparagus Souffle Squares to create a well-rounded spread. They’re perfect for entertaining guests or as a light lunch option.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover sandwiches in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To maintain freshness, separate layers of sandwiches with parchment paper. Reheat gently in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, or enjoy them cold as they maintain their flavor and texture well when chilled.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Walnut Dreams contains roughly 14 calories, with 1g protein, 2g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is a good source of vitamin A (11% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these sandwiches ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cream cheese mixture a day in advance. Just keep it covered in the refrigerator. Assemble the sandwiches no more than a few hours before serving to ensure the bread stays fresh and doesn't get soggy.
What can I serve with these sandwiches?
These sandwiches pair wonderfully with a variety of beverages, including a refreshing iced tea or a light sparkling wine. For a complete picnic or lunch spread, consider adding fresh fruit, cheese, and a simple green salad to complement the flavors.
Can I use different ingredients?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different nuts like pecans or almonds, and even add herbs such as chives or dill for added flavor. If you want a spicier kick, consider incorporating some chopped jalapeños into the cream cheese mixture.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).