If a sandwich and a cheesecake had a secret rendezvous in the fridge, this would be their delicious lovechild. Say hello to the Tuna and Tomato Sandwich Cake, a playful spin on the no-bake cake idea that swaps sugar for salt, and frosting for creamy tuna spread. It’s layered and so easy to make it might just become your new favorite no-cook snack.
Regardless of the event, you can serve them on a brunch platter, if you want to jazz up your picnic basket, or simply in need of a fridge-friendly appetizer that looks posh but plays cool.
What Is a Tuna and Tomato Sandwich Cake?
The Tuna and Tomato Sandwich Cake is similar to a classic Scandinavian smörgåstårta dish. It’s a multi-layered sandwich “cake” that is refrigerated and sliced like a dessert but served as a starter or snack. Originally popularized in Northern Europe, this trend has been given an Italian twist here with tramezzino bread, which is a soft, crustless bread traditionally used for finger sandwiches.
It also has a Mediterranean-inspired filling of tuna, tomatoes, mayo, and cream cheese. This dish is also highly customizable, just swap the tuna for smoked salmon, or add sun-dried tomatoes, capers, or olives..
🥪🍅 Tuna and Tomato Sandwich Cake: A Great Recipe for an Easy and Tasty Snack
If you’re looking for a quick, flavorful, and beautifully layered snack, this Tuna and Tomato Sandwich Cake is the perfect choice. It’s light, creamy, budget-friendly, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether for parties, family gatherings, or afternoon snacks, this savory “cake” is as fun to make as it is to eat!
🧾 Ingredients
For the Filling
- 2 cans of tuna (drained)
- 2 medium tomatoes (finely chopped)
- 1 small onion (finely diced)
- 2–3 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese or plain yogurt (optional, for extra creaminess)
- 1 tablespoon mustard (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley or dill
For the Sandwich Cake
- 10–12 slices of white sandwich bread (edges removed)
- ½ cup tomato sauce or ketchup (for spreading)
- ½ cup mayonnaise (for spreading and garnishing)
Optional Garnishes
- Sliced cherry tomatoes
- Cucumber slices
- Olives
- Parsley leaves
- Grated cheese
🥣 Instructions
1. Prepare the Tuna Filling
- In a bowl, add the drained tuna.
- Mix in the chopped tomatoes, diced onion, parsley or dill.
- Add mayonnaise, cream cheese/yogurt (if using), mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Combine until creamy and well-mixed. Set aside.
2. Prepare the Bread Layers
- Remove the crusts from the bread slices (if not already done).
- Lightly flatten each slice with a rolling pin or your hand — this helps layers stick better.
3. Assemble the Sandwich Cake
- Place 3–4 slices of bread on a serving tray to form a square or rectangle.
- Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce or ketchup on the bread.
- Add a generous layer of the tuna filling.
- Add another layer of bread on top.
- Repeat the process until you have 3–4 layers, ending with a bread layer.
4. Frost the Sandwich Cake
- Spread a thin, even layer of mayonnaise over the top and sides of the sandwich cake — just like frosting a real cake.
- Smooth it using a spatula for a clean finish.
5. Decorate
Use your favorite garnishes:
- Place cherry tomato halves on top
- Add cucumber slices around the edges
- Scatter olives or parsley
- Use grated cheese for a finishing touch
Make it as simple or artistic as you like!
6. Chill and Serve
Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving — this helps the layers set and enhances the flavor.
Cut into squares or slices and enjoy!
🍽️ Tips for Best Results
- For a lighter version, use yogurt instead of mayonnaise.
- Add grated carrots or boiled eggs to the filling for extra nutrition.
- You can replace tuna with chicken, turkey, or even vegetables for different variations.
🎉 A Snack Everyone Will Love
This Tuna and Tomato Sandwich Cake is delicious, refreshing, and surprisingly elegant for how easy it is. Perfect for potlucks, Ramadan tables, picnics, or a quick meal at home.
