Cucumber Tea Sandwiches

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Have you ever been to a tea house and had their little tea sandwiches? I have some super easy Cucumber Tea Sandwiches for your next tea event.

I like to create a few different sandwiches when having friends over or hosting an afternoon tea. My first is always a cucumber dill sandwich. I like to create round little delicate sandwiches that look pretty and visually appealing on a plate. They feel very fancy, but in fact, it is only a handful of simple fresh ingredients needed.

These little cucumber sandwiches are the perfect recipe for when you want to serve up something different for your guests for afternoon tea. They are also a wonderful option to bring to picnics or potlucks during the summer months. I love the flavors of the dill and chives with the fresh cucumber, and the creaminess of the cream cheese bringing everything together. A flavor punch with every bite.

My second favorite sandwich is a Tomato and Pesto sandwich. I take mini bread from the bakery section of the store. They usually are in small 2-inch squares and I buy rye bread. I make pesto sauce and spread it on top. Then slice cherry tomatoes and put them on top with a slice of green olive.

The third is usually a variation of my quiche. I choose different ingredients depending on what I might be serving. I may also add a crust to the quiche depending on how hearty I want the meal.

Why You Will Like This Recipe

Easy to make – These are simple to make but look decadent on a plate. Perfect to serve up at your next afternoon tea party.
Tasty – The cucumber is complemented by the cream cheese and dill making it a taste sensation.
Perfect for everyone – These cute little sandwiches are ideal to serve everyone. Kids will enjoy them just as much as the adults.

Ingredients

White Bread – I like to use white bread for these delicate sandwiches. You can use your preferred brand but for this recipe, I used Thin Pepperidge Farm.
English Cucumber – Cucumber is fresh and delicious. You can pick them up in the fresh section of the grocery store. Keep them refrigerated until ready to slice.
Fresh Dill – I prefer to use fresh dill for this recipe. Make sure it is finely chopped.
Fresh Chives – This is optional but works well with the cucumber and cream cheese. It adds an extra flavor.
Butter – No sandwich is complete without butter. Use your preferred brand.
Cream Cheese – Normal or lighter cream cheese can be used for these sandwiches. The creaminess helps to keep the sandwiches intact and balances out the freshness of the cucumber. You can also substitute vegan cream cheese for a Vegan Tea Sandwich.
Salt and Pepper to Taste – All good sandwiches have a bit of seasoning and salt and pepper help to bring out all of the flavors.

Directions

Peel and slice the cucumber as thinly as you can. Then place on a paper towel to drain. Add some Salt and Pepper to season
Spread the butter on slices of bread. Then cut out your chosen shapes. I used a cookie cutter to create cute little circles.
Mix chopped chives in cream cheese. Spread cream cheese mix over butter on bread slices
Add fresh chopped dill on top of the cream cheese mixture.
Finally, add the thinly sliced cucumbers. Enjoy.

FAQs

What is so special about cucumber tea sandwiches?

There is something quite fancy and decadent about a small cucumber sandwich. Often associated with the rich, they are very common at afternoon tea events. The freshness of the cucumber with the cream cheese and herbs creates a taste sensation.

How should you cut the English cucumber for sandwiches?

I like to thinly slice the English cucumber but you can also grate it. Just make sure you absorb as much of the moisture as possible. It is up to your personal preference as to whether you leave the skin or take it off. Some argue that there is extra flavor in the skin, and the pop of green color makes the sandwiches look very inviting.

Where do cucumber sandwiches come from?

These sandwiches are known to be British and are thought to have originated from the war times when the British army sought sanctuary in tea houses. The cucumber sandwiches were known to keep the officers hydrated and full when the temperatures were high.

Substitutions and Variations

Create different-shaped sandwiches. I used a cookie cutter for mine, but you can cut them into triangles, rectangles, or other shapes using cookie cutters.
Add different herbs. The flavors of different herbs like parsley or basil will also work well with the cucumber and cream cheese.
Add some chopped green onion for extra flavor.
Use flavored cream cheese. You can pick up chili or garlic-flavored cream cheese and this could be a great way to add some extra flavor.

Expert Tips

The Best White Bread for these sandwiches is Thin Pepperidge Farm.
Traditionally the crusts are removed for these sandwiches.
Make sure you absorb as much water from the cucumber as possible to avoid the sandwiches getting wet and soggy.

Storage Tips

Once done, add water-moistened paper towels over sandwiches and then cover with a hand kitchen towel and refrigerate.

They need to be served and enjoyed on the same day. These types of sandwiches will not last well stored for long periods due to the moisture. You can prep the ingredients ahead of time, but assemble just before serving.

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