Ingredients
Scale
- 4 slices thick-cut bread (sourdough, whole grain, or rye)
- 4-6 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 1 medium English cucumber (or 2 Persian cucumbers)
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, finely chopped (or herb of choice)
- 2 teaspoons everything bagel seasoning
- 1 tablespoon fresh chives, finely chopped
- Flaky sea salt, to taste
- Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice (optional but recommended)
- Extra virgin olive oil for drizzling (optional)
Optional Additions:
- Radish slices for color and peppery crunch
- Smoked salmon for a protein boost
- Sliced avocado for healthy fats
- Microgreens for elegant garnish
- Red onion, thinly sliced for bite
- Capers for briny flavor
Instructions
- Prepare Your Ingredients: Remove cream cheese from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 20-30 minutes until softened—this makes spreading much easier. While it softens, prepare your other ingredients so everything is ready when your toast is done.
- Slice the Cucumber: Wash and dry your cucumber thoroughly. Using a sharp knife or mandoline slicer, cut the cucumber into very thin rounds, approximately 1/8-inch thick or thinner if possible. The thinner your slices, the more elegant the final presentation and the better they’ll layer on your toast. Pat the cucumber slices dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture—this prevents your toast from getting soggy.
- Prepare the Herb Cream Cheese: In a small bowl, combine softened cream cheese with half of the chopped dill (reserving the rest for topping). Mix until the herbs are evenly distributed throughout. Add a tiny pinch of salt and a few grinds of black pepper to season the cream cheese. If using lemon juice, add it now and mix well. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Toast the Bread: Place bread slices in your toaster or toaster oven and toast until golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes depending on your preferred level of crispness. The toast should be sturdy enough to support the toppings without bending or getting soggy. Aim for a deep golden color that’s crispy throughout.
- Spread the Cream Cheese: While your toast is still slightly warm (but not hot—wait 30 seconds if needed), generously spread the herb cream cheese mixture on each slice, covering all the way to the edges. Use about 1-1½ tablespoons per slice, creating an even, smooth layer. An offset spatula makes this easier, but a regular butter knife works fine.
- Layer the Cucumber: Arrange cucumber slices on top of the cream cheese in your preferred pattern. You can overlap them in neat rows like shingles on a roof, arrange them in concentric circles for an artistic look, or scatter them more randomly for a rustic appearance. Use enough cucumber to generously cover each slice—don’t be shy! You want cucumber in every bite.
- Add Final Toppings: Sprinkle everything bagel seasoning evenly over the top—about ½ teaspoon per slice. Add the remaining fresh dill and chopped chives. Finish with a pinch of flaky sea salt and a few grinds of fresh black pepper. For extra elegance, add a light drizzle of high-quality olive oil.
- Serve Immediately: Enjoy your Cucumber Cream Cheese Toast right away while the toast is still crispy and the cucumber is cold. The temperature and texture contrast is what makes this dish so special. Serve on pretty plates and prepare for compliments!
Notes
- Cucumber Prep: Removing excess moisture from cucumber slices is crucial for preventing soggy toast. Pat them thoroughly with paper towels.
- Cream Cheese Temperature: Room temperature cream cheese is essential for easy spreading. Cold cream cheese will tear your toast.
- Make It Creamier: Whip softened cream cheese with a fork or in a food processor for an even smoother, more luxurious texture.
- Serving Size: One slice makes a light snack, while two slices create a satisfying breakfast or lunch.
- Dairy-Free Option: Use plant-based cream cheese alternatives—they work beautifully in this recipe.
- Add Protein: Top with smoked salmon, hard-boiled egg slices, or turkey for a more substantial meal.
- Prep Time: 8 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Toasting
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 slices with toppings
- Calories: 245
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 465mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 30mg