Easy Cucumber Appetizer Bites

These everything bagel cucumber bites transform humble cucumbers into an irresistible, healthy appetizer that satisfies snack cravings with minimal calories. Crisp cucumber rounds provide the perfect base for a dollop of creamy, tangy topping, all finished with the iconic blend of seeds and spices that make everything bagels so addictive. With just four ingredients and no cooking required, these bites deliver impressive flavor and presentation with remarkably little effort.

I created this recipe last summer when my garden cucumbers threatened to take over my refrigerator. Looking for something beyond the usual cucumber salad, I was inspired by my love of everything bagels but wanted something lighter than actual bread. The first time I served these at a neighborhood gathering, the platter was empty within minutes, with several guests hovering nearby hoping for a second batch! My twin five-year-olds, who typically approach anything green with suspicion, now request these "cucumber cookies" regularly – perhaps my greatest culinary achievement to date.

Ingredients

• 1 large English cucumber: Creates the perfect crispy, refreshing base – English or Persian varieties have thinner skin and fewer seeds
• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened: Provides that classic bagel spread flavor and creamy texture – whipped variety makes for easier mixing
• ½ cup plain Greek yogurt: Adds protein and a tangy flavor while creating a lighter, fluffier topping
• 2 tablespoons everything bagel seasoning: The star of the show, delivering garlicky, oniony flavor and delightful texture from seeds

Step-by-Step Preparation Instructions

Step 1:

Prepare the cucumber: Wash the cucumber thoroughly and pat it dry with a clean kitchen towel. Using a sharp knife or mandoline slicer (with the guard in place for safety), slice the cucumber into approximately ¼-inch thick rounds. Aim for 12 uniform slices for consistent presentation and easy eating. If your cucumber has particularly seedy sections, you might want to avoid those parts for the most aesthetically pleasing bites. For extra crispness, you can place the sliced cucumber on paper towels for 5-10 minutes to remove excess moisture.

Step 2:

Create the creamy topping: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and Greek yogurt. The cream cheese must be properly softened to blend smoothly – I usually take it out of the refrigerator about 30 minutes before preparing this recipe. Use a fork or hand mixer to blend until completely smooth with no lumps remaining. The mixture should be fluffy yet firm enough to hold its shape when piped. If it seems too soft, refrigerate for 10-15 minutes before proceeding.

Step 3:

Prepare for piping: Transfer the cream cheese mixture to a piping bag fitted with a star tip for an elegant presentation. If you don't have piping bags, a zip-top plastic bag with a corner snipped off works perfectly well. For casual snacking at home, you can simply spoon the mixture onto the cucumber slices – it will taste just as delicious! I find that chilling the filled piping bag for about 10 minutes helps the topping hold its shape better when piped.

Step 4:

Assemble the bites: Arrange the cucumber slices on a serving platter or plate, making sure they don't overlap. Pipe or spoon about 1-2 teaspoons of the cream cheese mixture onto the center of each cucumber slice, creating a decorative swirl if using a piping bag. The amount of topping can be adjusted to your preference – I like a generous dollop that doesn't overwhelm the cucumber but provides enough creaminess in each bite.

Step 5:

Add the signature seasoning: Sprinkle the everything bagel seasoning generously over each topped cucumber slice, allowing some to fall onto the plate (this extra can be spooned back over the bites for minimum waste). The moisture from the cream cheese mixture will help the seasoning adhere. For the most even distribution, I like to hold my hand about 8 inches above the platter while sprinkling, which allows the seasoning to fall more evenly across all the bites.

Step 6:

Serve or chill: These bites can be served immediately or refrigerated for up to two hours before serving. If preparing ahead for a party, I recommend assembling them no more than 2 hours before serving to maintain the cucumber's crispness and prevent the topping from weeping. Serve chilled for the most refreshing taste experience.

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What Makes Everything Bagel Seasoning So Addictive?

The magic of these cucumber bites lies in that distinctive everything bagel seasoning – a simple blend that delivers complex, crave-worthy flavor. After becoming slightly obsessed with this seasoning blend, I started making my own and discovered the perfect ratio of ingredients that makes it so irresistible.

The combination of toasted sesame seeds and poppy seeds provides a wonderful textural contrast and subtle nuttiness. Dried garlic and onion add that savory, umami quality that makes you keep coming back for more. A touch of flaky sea salt ties everything together and enhances all the other flavors.

What I love most about this seasoning is how it transforms something as simple as a cucumber slice with cream cheese into a gourmet-tasting treat. The seasoning adds complexity without overwhelming the refreshing nature of the cucumber or the tangy creaminess of the topping. It's that perfect flavor symphony that makes these bites disappear so quickly whenever I serve them.

Last spring, I brought these to a potluck where dietary restrictions meant many guests couldn't enjoy most of the dishes. One woman approached me near tears, explaining that she hadn't been able to enjoy most party foods since developing a gluten sensitivity. Finding something so delicious that reminded her of her beloved everything bagels without the gluten was an unexpected joy. Now I always make sure to bring these to gatherings where I know diverse dietary needs might be present.

Creative Variations

While the classic version of these cucumber bites is hard to improve upon, I love experimenting with different flavors and presentations. Here are some variations that have become favorites in my household:

For an extra-fancy presentation, use a small melon baller to scoop out some of the cucumber's center, creating a little cup that holds more of the cream cheese mixture. This works especially well for cocktail parties when you want a more substantial bite that guests can easily pick up and eat without anything falling off.

To add a Mediterranean twist, mix a teaspoon of za'atar into the cream cheese mixture and top with a small piece of roasted red pepper after applying the everything bagel seasoning. The herbaceous za'atar complements the everything bagel seasoning beautifully, while the sweet pepper adds a pop of color and flavor.

For a spicier version that adults love, add a few dashes of hot sauce to the cream cheese mixture and garnish with a thin slice of jalapeño on top. The heat plays wonderfully against the cool cucumber and creamy topping for an unexpectedly complex flavor profile.

I've been perfecting this recipe for nearly three years now, tweaking ingredients and presentation with each batch. What began as a simple solution to garden abundance has become one of my signature dishes, requested for everything from book club meetings to family gatherings. There's something deeply satisfying about transforming such humble ingredients into a dish that delights both the eye and the palate – proving once again that the best recipes are often the simplest ones.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I make these cucumber bites ahead of time?

You can prepare the components ahead of time, but it's best to assemble just before serving. Store the cucumber slices and cream cheese mixture separately in the refrigerator.

→ How long do cucumber bites last in the fridge?

These bites are best eaten fresh but can be stored assembled in an airtight container for up to one day in the refrigerator.

→ What can I substitute for Greek yogurt?

You can use sour cream instead of Greek yogurt for a similar tangy flavor and creamy texture.

→ Where can I find Everything Bagel Seasoning?

Everything Bagel Seasoning is available at most grocery stores in the spice section. Trader Joe's and many other retailers carry their own versions.

→ Can I make these cucumber bites dairy-free?

Yes, substitute the cream cheese and Greek yogurt with dairy-free alternatives like plant-based cream cheese and coconut yogurt.