Finger Sandwiches for a Crowd – 37 Make Ahead Mini Sandwiches for Party Platters

Finger sandwiches are a staple for gatherings, offering a delightful array of flavors in small, manageable portions. Perfect for brunches, teas, and parties, these mini sandwiches can be made ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy your event without stress. In this article, we present 37 delectable recipes that will impress your guests and make your gatherings memorable.

What Are Finger Sandwiches?

Finger sandwiches are small sandwiches typically made with soft bread, cut into bite-sized pieces. They are often served without crusts, making them easy to eat with your hands. These sandwiches can be filled with a variety of ingredients, from savory to sweet, catering to different tastes and dietary preferences.

Key Terms

• Crustless: Bread without the outer edges, providing a softer texture.
• Platter: A large dish used to serve food, often for sharing.
• Mini Sandwiches: Smaller versions of traditional sandwiches, perfect for appetizers.

Classic Finger Sandwich Recipes

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Here are 37 finger sandwich recipes that are not only delicious but also easy to prepare ahead of time. Each recipe includes a brief description to help you choose the best options for your next gathering.

1. Classic Cucumber Sandwiches

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For a refreshing option, classic cucumber sandwiches are a must. Thinly sliced cucumbers layered between cream cheese spread on soft white bread create a light and tasty treat. These sandwiches are perfect for warm weather events, providing a cool and crisp bite that pairs wonderfully with tea. You can also add fresh dill or mint for an extra flavor boost.

2. Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese

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Smoked salmon and cream cheese sandwiches offer a sophisticated touch. The rich, creamy cheese complements the smoky flavor of the salmon, while adding capers and fresh dill enhances the overall taste. Serve these sandwiches on pumpernickel or whole grain bread for a delightful presentation. They are ideal for brunch or upscale gatherings, adding an elegant flair to your platter.

3. Egg Salad Sandwiches

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Classic egg salad sandwiches are a crowd-pleaser. A mixture of hard-boiled eggs, mayonnaise, and a hint of mustard creates a creamy filling. You can enhance the flavor with chopped celery or green onions. Serve on soft white or whole wheat bread, and cut into bite-sized pieces. These sandwiches are perfect for picnics or casual get-togethers, offering a satisfying yet light option.

4. Chicken Salad Sandwiches

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Chicken salad sandwiches are hearty and versatile. Shredded chicken mixed with mayonnaise, grapes, and almonds creates a delightful balance of flavors and textures. You can serve these on croissants for a flaky touch or on whole wheat bread for a healthier option. These sandwiches work well for luncheons or as a filling snack during gatherings.

5. Hummus and Veggie Wraps

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Hummus and veggie wraps provide a nutritious vegetarian option. Spread hummus on a whole wheat tortilla and fill with fresh vegetables like cucumbers, bell peppers, and spinach. Roll it up tightly and slice into bite-sized pieces. These wraps are colorful and packed with flavor, making them ideal for health-conscious guests or those looking for a lighter option.

6. Turkey and Cranberry Sandwiches

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Turkey and cranberry sandwiches are a delightful twist on the classic Thanksgiving flavors. Sliced turkey paired with cranberry sauce and cream cheese on soft bread creates a satisfying and seasonal treat. These sandwiches are perfect for holiday gatherings or as a unique addition to any platter, offering a sweet and savory bite.

7. Caprese Sandwiches

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For a fresh and flavorful option, caprese sandwiches combine mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil. Drizzle with balsamic glaze for an extra kick. Serve on crusty baguette slices or ciabatta rolls for a delicious bite-sized treat. These sandwiches are perfect for summer gatherings, bringing a taste of the Mediterranean to your table.

8. Pimento Cheese Sandwiches

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Pimento cheese sandwiches offer a Southern twist. The creamy and slightly spicy cheese spread, made with pimentos and sharp cheddar, is a flavorful filling. Serve on white bread, crusts removed, for a classic look. These sandwiches are great for picnics or casual gatherings, providing a tasty and satisfying option.

9. BLT Sandwiches

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Classic BLT sandwiches are always a hit. Layer crispy bacon, fresh lettuce, and juicy tomatoes on toasted bread with mayonnaise for a delicious combination. You can cut these into smaller pieces for easy serving. These sandwiches are perfect for casual gatherings or as a hearty snack during a party.

10. Peanut Butter and Banana

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For a sweet option, peanut butter and banana sandwiches are a fantastic choice. Spread creamy peanut butter on soft bread and layer with banana slices. You can drizzle honey or sprinkle cinnamon for added flavor. These sandwiches are not only delicious but also a great option for children and adults alike, making them perfect for family gatherings.

11. Shrimp Salad Sandwiches

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Shrimp salad sandwiches offer a touch of elegance. The combination of cooked shrimp, mayonnaise, and diced celery creates a refreshing filling. Serve on soft rolls or mini brioche buns for an upscale look. These sandwiches are great for brunch or special occasions, providing a delightful seafood option.

12. Roasted Vegetable Sandwiches

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Roasted vegetable sandwiches are a flavorful vegetarian choice. A mix of seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant, roasted to perfection, adds depth of flavor. Spread with pesto on crusty bread for a delicious bite. These sandwiches are perfect for summer gatherings or as a healthy option for your guests.

13. Spinach and Feta Pinwheels

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Spinach and feta pinwheels are a tasty and visually appealing option. Spread cream cheese on a tortilla, layer fresh spinach and crumbled feta, then roll and slice. These pinwheels are not only easy to make but also a great way to include greens in your spread. They are perfect for parties and gatherings, offering a fresh, savory flavor.

14. Curried Chicken Sandwiches

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For a unique twist, curried chicken sandwiches are a must-try. Shredded chicken mixed with curry powder, mayonnaise, and diced apples creates a flavorful filling. Serve on whole grain bread for a healthy touch. These sandwiches are perfect for those who enjoy bold flavors, making them a great addition to any gathering.

15. Tomato Basil Caprese Bites

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Mozzarella and basil bites are simple yet delicious. Cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella balls, and basil leaves drizzled with balsamic vinegar create a fresh and tasty combination. You can serve these on skewers for easy handling. They are perfect for cocktail parties or as appetizers, providing a refreshing option.

16. Ham and Cheese Sandwiches

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Classic ham and cheese sandwiches are always a favorite. Layer sliced ham and your choice of cheese on soft bread for a satisfying bite. You can add mustard or mayo for extra flavor. These sandwiches are great for casual gatherings and are sure to please both kids and adults alike.

17. The Best Cream Cheese Fruit Dip

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For a sweet option, fruit and cream cheese sandwiches are delightful. Spread cream cheese on bread and layer with fresh fruit like strawberries, kiwi, or peaches. Cut into small squares for easy serving. These sandwiches are perfect for brunch or as a refreshing snack during the summer.

18. BBQ Chicken Sliders

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BBQ chicken sliders are a hearty choice. Shredded BBQ chicken served on mini buns creates a delicious bite. You can add coleslaw for a crunchy texture. These sliders are perfect for casual gatherings, offering a satisfying and flavorful option.

19. Italian Grilled Cheese Sandwiches

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An Italian meats and cheeses platter makes for a flavorful finger sandwich option. Layer salami, pepperoni, and provolone cheese on soft rolls. You can add a drizzle of olive oil and balsamic vinegar for extra flavor. These sandwiches are great for parties, bringing a taste of Italy to your gathering.

20. Tuna Salad Sandwiches

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Tuna salad sandwiches are a classic option. A mixture of canned tuna, mayonnaise, and diced celery creates a tasty filling. Serve on whole grain or white bread, cut into small squares. These sandwiches are great for lunch or as a hearty snack for gatherings.

21. Bacon, Lettuce, and Tomato (BLT) Wraps

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For a twist on the classic BLT, try wraps. Use lettuce leaves as a wrap and fill with bacon and tomato slices for a low-carb option. These wraps are easy to eat and perfect for casual gatherings, providing a delicious alternative to traditional sandwiches.

22. Baked Cheeseburger Sliders

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Beef sliders topped with pickles make for a hearty and satisfying option. Serve on mini buns with a slice of cheese and your favorite condiments. These sliders are perfect for casual gatherings, providing a filling choice for meat lovers.

23. Grilled Cheese Sandwiches

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Grilled cheese sandwiches are a comfort food favorite. Use a mix of cheeses for a gooey filling and grill until golden brown. Cut into small squares for easy serving. These sandwiches are perfect for cozy gatherings, offering a nostalgic bite that everyone loves.

24. Avocado Toast Bites

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Avocado toast bites are a trendy and healthy option. Mash ripe avocados and spread them on toasted bread, then top with cherry tomatoes or radishes. Cut into small pieces for a delightful bite. These sandwiches are perfect for brunch or as a refreshing snack.

25. Pesto Chicken Sandwiches

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Pesto chicken sandwiches offer a burst of flavor. Shredded chicken mixed with pesto sauce and fresh basil creates a tasty filling. Serve on crusty bread or ciabatta rolls for a delicious bite. These sandwiches are great for casual gatherings, bringing a touch of gourmet to your spread.

26. Mini Meatball Subs

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Mini meatball subs are a hearty choice for gatherings. Small meatballs in marinara sauce served on mini sub rolls create a delicious bite. You can top with cheese and bake until bubbly for added flavor. These subs are perfect for casual gatherings, offering a comforting and filling option.

27. Sliced Turkey and Avocado

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Sliced turkey and avocado sandwiches provide a healthy option. Layer turkey slices and avocado on whole grain bread for a satisfying bite. Add lettuce and tomato for added crunch. These sandwiches are perfect for lunch or as a nutritious option during gatherings.

28. Sweet Potato and Black Bean

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Sweet potato and black bean sandwiches offer a hearty vegetarian option. Mashed sweet potatoes mixed with black beans and spices create a flavorful filling. Serve on whole grain bread for a nutritious touch. These sandwiches are great for casual gatherings, providing a filling and delicious choice.

29. Greek Salad Wraps

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Greek salad wraps are fresh and tasty. Fill a whole wheat tortilla with chopped cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese. Drizzle with olive oil and wrap tightly. These wraps are perfect for summer gatherings, providing a refreshing and healthy option.

30. BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders

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BBQ pulled pork sliders are a hearty option for meat lovers. Shredded pork cooked in BBQ sauce served on mini buns creates a satisfying bite. You can add coleslaw for crunch. These sliders are perfect for casual gatherings, offering a delicious and filling option.

31. Apple and Cheddar Sandwiches

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Apple and cheddar sandwiches provide a sweet and savory option. Layer thin apple slices and sharp cheddar on whole grain bread for a delightful combination. These sandwiches are perfect for brunch or as a unique addition to your platter.

32. Roasted Red Pepper and Hummus

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Roasted red pepper and hummus sandwiches are a tasty vegetarian choice. Spread hummus on bread and top with roasted red peppers for a flavorful bite. These sandwiches are perfect for casual gatherings, providing a colorful and delicious option.

33. Veggie and Cream Cheese Sandwiches

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Veggie and cream cheese sandwiches are colorful and healthy. Spread cream cheese on bread and layer with assorted veggies like carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers. Cut into small pieces for easy serving. These sandwiches are perfect for casual gatherings, providing a nutritious and delicious option.

34. Salmon and Avocado Sandwiches

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Salmon and avocado sandwiches offer a gourmet touch. Layer smoked salmon and avocado slices on whole grain bread for a delicious bite. Add dill or capers for extra flavor. These sandwiches are great for brunch or as a unique option during gatherings.

35. Strawberry Nutella Bagel Recipe

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For a sweet treat, try chocolate hazelnut spread and strawberries. Spread the chocolate spread on bread and top with sliced strawberries. Cut into small pieces for easy serving. These sandwiches are perfect for dessert or as a sweet snack during gatherings.

36. Ultimate Grilled Cheese and Chutney Sandwich

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Cheddar and chutney sandwiches provide a flavorful option. Layer sharp cheddar cheese and your favorite chutney on crusty bread for a delicious bite. These sandwiches are great for casual gatherings, offering a satisfying combination of flavors.

37. Smashed Chickpea Sandwiches

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Smashed chickpea sandwiches are a nutritious vegetarian choice. Mash chickpeas with avocado, lemon juice, and spices for a flavorful filling. Serve on whole grain bread for a healthy option. These sandwiches are perfect for casual gatherings, providing a tasty and satisfying bite.

Tips for Making Finger Sandwiches Ahead of Time

1. Choose Soft Bread: Opt for soft bread that won’t dry out quickly. White, whole wheat, or brioche work well.
2. Wrap Well: To keep sandwiches fresh, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container.
3. Cut and Assemble: Prepare and cut sandwiches into bite-sized pieces ahead of time, then store them until your event.
4. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh ingredients ensure your sandwiches taste their best. Choose seasonal produce for optimal flavor.
5. Refrigerate: Store sandwiches in the refrigerator until serving time to maintain freshness and prevent spoilage.

Serving Suggestions

• Presentation: Arrange finger sandwiches on platters or tiered trays for an appealing display.
• Accompaniments: Pair sandwiches with dips, spreads, or fresh fruits for added variety.
• Beverages: Serve with tea, lemonade, or sparkling water for a refreshing touch.

Conclusion

Finger sandwiches are a versatile and delightful option for any gathering. With these 37 make-ahead mini sandwich recipes, you can impress your guests and enjoy your event without the stress of last-minute preparations. Whether you prefer classic combinations or unique flavors, there’s something for everyone. So gather your ingredients, prepare these delicious bites, and get ready to host a fantastic event!