Canapés are hors d’oeuvres or appetizers that are exceptionally impressive and delicious when properly prepared. They consist of small oval or circular pieces of bread without crusts, and they are topped with tasty embellishments such as whipped cream cheese, shrimp, sliced olives, and countless other taste-tempting toppings. Canapés are very easy to make, especially shrimp and cheese varieties, and they are perfect for a party in honor of any occasion.
The first time I enjoyed shrimp canapés was at a family party. My aunt purchased ready-made shrimp canapés from a lady that made them in her home, and they were absolutely delectable. I was amazed by the visual appeal and the combination of textures and flavor, and I wanted to learn how to make these shrimp party canapés. I eventually learned how to make easy shrimp canapés for a party, and I received numerous compliments. Consider the following easy shrimp canapés for a party or simple get-together, and turn an ordinary gathering into a real celebration.
Necessary Ingredients for Shrimp Party Canapés
To make ten easy shrimp party canapés you will need five slices of fresh white bread, one tablespoon of melted butter, ¼ teaspoon of thyme, ten large pre-cooked frozen shrimp, 1/8 cup of finely shredded Monterey jack cheese, 1/8 cup of finely shredded colby cheese, 2 ½ heaping tablespoons of mayo, and 1/8 teaspoon of salt. You will also need a cookie cutter to create the canapé shapes. It is best to use open metal cookie cutters rather than thin plastic varieties that will smash the bread. Stars, moons, diamonds, and flowers are all fantastic choices for a party.
Procedure
Begin by turning on the broiler, and set it on a temperature of 500 degrees Fahrenheit. While the broiler is preheating, remove the crusts from the bread. Set the crusts aside. Next, cut ten shapes from the five slices of bread, and keep them covered with plastic wrap to preserve their freshness.
The next step involves making the topping for these party appetizers. Use a blender to quickly make ¼ cup of fine breadcrumbs from the leftover crust. In a large bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with the two cheeses, salt, and mayo. In the meantime, combine the melted butter with the thyme, and brush it onto the bread for the party canapés. Place the buttered party canapés on a broiler pan, and broil them just until they begin to turn golden brown. Keep in mind they will brown very quickly, and they can burn if not closely monitored.
Lastly, spread the topping onto the crisp browned pieces of bread. Top each of the party canapés with a single frozen cooked shrimp. Place the finished party canapés back under the broiler for approximately one minute to thaw and heat the shrimp. When the cheese begins to melt and slightly bubble, and when the shrimp is hot, these tasty shrimp party canapés are ready to serve to guests.
