Save to Pinterest Whimsical and fun sandwiches shaped like gingerbread men, perfect for kids lunches, parties, or festive occasions. Soft bread is filled with a sweet cream cheese spread and accented with fruit for a playful, delicious treat.
I first served these during a holiday party and the kids loved making their own gingerbread men sandwiches decorated with fruit and sprinkles.
Ingredients
- Bread: 12 slices soft whole wheat or white sandwich bread
- Cream Cheese Filling: 120 g (4 oz) cream cheese, softened, 1 ½ tbsp honey, ¼ tsp ground cinnamon, ½ tsp vanilla extract
- Decorations: 1 small apple, thinly sliced, 1 small banana, sliced, 12–18 raisins or mini chocolate chips, 2 tbsp colored sprinkles (optional)
Instructions
- Cut Bread Shapes:
- Using a gingerbread man-shaped cookie cutter, cut out shapes from each bread slice (yields 12 cutouts).
- Mix Filling:
- In a small bowl, mix cream cheese, honey, cinnamon, and vanilla until smooth.
- Spread Filling:
- Spread a generous layer of the cream cheese mixture onto 6 of the bread cutouts.
- Add Fruit Layers:
- Layer with thin apple or banana slices as desired.
- Assemble Sandwich:
- Top each with a second bread cutout to form a sandwich.
- Decorate:
- Decorate the sandwich faces with raisins, mini chocolate chips, or sprinkles to make eyes, buttons, and smiles. Lightly press decorations into the bread so they stay in place.
- Serve:
- Serve immediately, or wrap and refrigerate for up to 4 hours.
Save to Pinterest This recipe is a family favorite during the holidays and always brings smiles to the kids at the table.
Notes
Swap honey for maple syrup or agave for a different flavor. For a nutty twist, add a thin spread of nut butter beneath the cream cheese. Use gluten-free bread for a gluten-free version. Pair with fresh fruit or a glass of milk for a balanced snack.
Required Tools
Gingerbread man-shaped cookie cutter, mixing bowl, spatula or butter knife, small knife (for slicing fruit)
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (cream cheese) and gluten (bread). For nut allergies, ensure all ingredients are nut-free. Always check ingredient labels for potential allergens.
Save to Pinterest These delightful sandwiches turn snack time into a creative activity your kids will adore.
Recipe Frequently Asked Questions
- → What bread types work best for the cutouts?
Soft whole wheat or white sandwich bread works best, as it cuts cleanly and holds shapes well.
- → Can I substitute the honey in the filling?
Yes, maple syrup or agave can be used for a different but equally sweet flavor profile.
- → How do I keep the decorations from falling off?
Gently press raisins or chocolate chips into the soft bread surface to secure them firmly in place.
- → Is there a gluten-free option for this sandwich?
Yes, using gluten-free sandwich bread allows you to keep this treat suitable for gluten intolerance.
- → What fruits can I use for the toppings?
Thinly sliced apples or bananas work well, adding sweetness and moisture that complement the cream cheese filling.
- → How long can the sandwiches be stored?
They can be wrapped and refrigerated for up to 4 hours before serving to maintain freshness.