Classic Cucumber Tea Sandwiches: Easy Elegant Recipe for Afternoon Tea

There is something timeless about Cucumber Tea Sandwiches. They are equally delicate and refreshing, and are the cornerstone of a traditional afternoon tea. They can also bring a touch of sophistication to garden parties, baby showers, and brunches. Our recipe combines a creamy, herb-infused spread with thinly sliced English cucumber, and can be whipped up in 15 minutes or less.

Cucumber Tea Sandwiches Overview

These elegant Cucumber Tea Sandwiches feature a creamy herb-infused cream cheese spread on crustless white bread, cut into delicate triangles perfect for afternoon tea.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Servings: 4 sandwiches (16 triangular pieces)
• Difficulty Level: Easy

What You’ll Need

Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Hand mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking sheet or plate

Ingredients

• 1/2 English cucumber
• 3 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 block (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
• 8 slices white sandwich bread (homemade bread preferred)
• 1/2 teaspoon minced garlic
• 1/2 teaspoon dried dill
• 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 3/4 teaspoon salt (1/2 tsp for cream cheese mixture, 1/4 teaspoon salt for cucumbers)

How to Make Cucumber Tea Sanwiches

1. Prepare the cucumber: Using a sharp knife, slice the English cucumber into thin, uniform slices (about 1/8-inch thick). Set aside.
2. Prep the bread: Remove crusts from all 8 slices of sandwich bread using a sharp knife. Set trimmed bread aside.
3. Chop herbs: Finely chop the fresh chives and set aside.
4. Dry cucumbers: Arrange cucumber slices on a baking sheet lined with a paper towel. Place another paper towel on top and gently pat dry to remove excess moisture. This step is crucial for preventing soggy sandwiches.
5. Make cream cheese spread: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese (cut into cubes for easier mixing), minced garlic, lemon juice, dried dill, dried parsley, mayonnaise, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Using a hand mixer, beat until smooth and well combined. Fold in the chopped chives and stir by hand.
6. Season cucumbers: Remove paper towels from cucumbers and lightly sprinkle with the remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt.
7. Assemble sandwiches: Spread approximately 2 teaspoons of the cream cheese mixture evenly on one or both slices of bread for each sandwich. Layer the seasoned cucumber slices over the spread, ensuring even coverage, and top with second piece of bread.
8. Cut and serve: Using a knife, cut each sandwich diagonally into 4 triangular pieces.

Expert Tips

Cucumber Selection and Preparation

English cucumbers are preferred over regular cucumbers as they have fewer seeds, thinner skin, and a milder flavor. Always slice cucumbers uniformly for the best presentation and consistent bite. The salting and drying step is non-negotiable – it removes excess water that would otherwise make your sandwiches soggy.

Bread Considerations

White sandwich bread is traditional, but the quality matters. Homemade bread or a high-quality store-bought loaf will make a noticeable difference. The bread should be soft but sturdy enough to hold the filling without falling apart.

Storage Instructions

Cucumber tea sandwiches are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 hours. Keep them covered with a damp paper towel to prevent the bread from drying out. Do not freeze these sandwiches as the cucumber will become watery and the bread will lose its texture.

Serving Suggestions

Where to serve these Cucumber Tea Sandwiches:

• Traditional afternoon tea service
• Brunch gatherings
• Baby showers and bridal showers
• Garden parties
• Light lunch with soup
• Elegant picnics

Pair them with other tea party favorites like scones with clotted cream, mini quiches, or fruit tarts. Serve alongside Earl Grey, English Breakfast tea, or sparkling water with lemon for a refreshing combination.

Perfect for entertaining, these sandwiches embody the experience of traditional afternoon tea while being accessible enough for casual gatherings. Whether you’re hosting a tea party or simply want to elevate your lunch routine, these cucumber tea sandwiches are sure to become a favorite.

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