Cheese dreams are an easy-to-make vintage recipe that is always the first thing to disappear at parties. They are crispy, gooey goodness that you just can't stop munching on! You can make them ahead, too!
Trim the crusts off the bread and cut each slice into 4 squares.
Set aside.
Beat cheese and butter at medium speed with an electric mixer until blended.
Beat in heavy cream and next 5 ingredients.
Spread 1 teaspoon cheese mixture on half of bread squares.
Top each with 1 remaining square.
Spread the remaining cheese mixture over top and sides of sandwiches like frosting a cake.
Place sandwiches, 1 inch apart, on a baking sheet that's been covered with parchment paper or sprayed with non-stick cooking spray.
Bake at 375°F for 15 minutes or until golden brown.
Lightly dust tops with smoked paprika if desired.
Serve hot.
Notes
Make aheadCan be made ahead. Made a day ahead, cover, and refrigerate.Or, flash freeze on the baking sheet and place in a freezer container for up to a month. If frozen, put them in the oven straight from the freezer and increase the bake time by 10 minutes.StorageRefrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for a day or two. Pop ‘em in the oven or air fryer for a few minutes to crisp up leftovers and enjoy again.Tips
Use a block of cheese and grate it yourself.
You only need about a teaspoon of the cheese mixture per sandwich. Use a measuring spoon to ensure you have plenty left to go on top.
Make sure you place your cheese dreams on a baking sheet that’s lined with parchment paper or lightly greased. Otherwise, they’ll stick to the sheet pan and can burn.
Your cheese dreams are done baking once the cheese melts and the tops turn golden brown and crispy.
Cheese dreams are best served hot ‘n fresh out of the oven. They lose their crispy texture and the cheese hardens as they cool.
Crunch up your leftover cheese dreams and sprinkle them over salads or casseroles—trust me, it’s delicious!