If you’re searching for a light, refreshing treat that feels both elegant and comforting, this Creamy Cucumber Tea Sandwiches Recipe is exactly what your next gathering needs. With delicate cucumber slices nestled in a luscious, herby cream cheese spread, these tea sandwiches are a classic crowd-pleaser that never go out of style. They’re quick to make, visually charming, and perfectly balanced between creamy and crisp—truly a delightful bite for any tea-time, brunch, or casual get-together.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Sometimes the simplest ingredients create the most memorable flavors, and that’s certainly true here. Each item in this Creamy Cucumber Tea Sandwiches Recipe plays a vital role, whether it’s the fresh crunch of cucumber or the rich creaminess of the spread that brings it all together.
- Medium cucumber: Peeled and thinly sliced for that refreshing crunch and clean flavor.
- Cream cheese (8 oz, softened): The creamy base that makes these sandwiches irresistibly smooth.
- Mayonnaise (2 tablespoons): Adds extra silkiness and richness to the spread.
- Dijon mustard (1 tablespoon): Provides a subtle tanginess that brightens the flavor.
- Fresh dill (1 tablespoon, chopped) or dried dill (1 teaspoon): Infuses the spread with a lovely herbal note that’s essential for the classic taste.
- Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Adds a gentle depth and warmth without overpowering.
- Salt and pepper: To taste, sharpening and balancing all the flavors perfectly.
- White or whole wheat bread (8 slices, crusts removed): Soft and neutral, letting the filling shine.
- Fresh parsley or dill for garnish (optional): For that finishing touch of color and a hint more herbiness.
How to Make Creamy Cucumber Tea Sandwiches Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cucumber
This step is key to preventing soggy sandwiches. By salting the thinly sliced cucumber and letting it rest wrapped in a kitchen towel for 10 to 15 minutes, you draw out excess moisture. Afterward, patting the slices dry ensures your sandwiches hold together beautifully without any watery mess—plus, it intensifies the cucumber’s fresh flavor and crisp texture.
Step 2: Make the Benedictine Spread
Combine softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, dill, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl and mix until perfectly smooth. This creamy spread is the heart of the Creamy Cucumber Tea Sandwiches Recipe, delivering a dreamy combination of tang, herbal brightness, and a subtle garlicky kick. It’s simple but packed with flavor and texture.
Step 3: Assemble the Sandwiches
Start by spreading a generous layer of the creamy Benedictine on each slice of bread. Then, artistically arrange the cucumber slices on half of those bread pieces, ensuring even coverage so every bite is balanced. Finally, top with the remaining bread slices, cream cheese side down, creating that classic finger sandwich look. Remember, trimming off the crusts and cutting into neat quarters or triangles adds to the charm and ease of handling.
Step 4: Finish and Serve
For an extra visual and flavor flourish, garnish each sandwich with a sprig of fresh parsley or dill if you like. These Creamy Cucumber Tea Sandwiches Recipe bites are best served fresh but can also chill in the fridge until it’s time to serve. Their cool creaminess is perfect for a lazy afternoon or a special occasion where simplicity shines.
How to Serve Creamy Cucumber Tea Sandwiches Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a bit of fresh herb greenery like parsley or dill on top of your sandwiches isn’t just pretty—it adds a fresh aroma and a pop of color that makes your presentation stand out. You can also lightly dust the sandwiches with a bit of cracked black pepper for a visually appealing and flavorful touch.
Side Dishes
These tea sandwiches pair beautifully with light sides such as a crisp green salad, a bowl of seasonal fruit, or delicate tea blends like chamomile or Earl Grey. Sweet treats like shortbread cookies or lemon bars create a classic afternoon tea vibe that your guests will adore.
Creative Ways to Present
Think beyond the plate by arranging the sandwiches on tiered serving trays for a traditional tea party feel. You could also use edible flowers or colorful napkins to elevate the visual impact. For a casual picnic, wrap each sandwich in wax paper tied with a ribbon—it’s charming and practical!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover Creamy Cucumber Tea Sandwiches Recipe, store them tightly wrapped in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Because of the fresh cucumber, they are best enjoyed sooner rather than later to keep that crisp texture intact.
Freezing
This recipe is not ideal for freezing because cucumbers release water when thawed, which can turn the bread soggy and compromise the fresh texture and taste you love about these sandwiches.
Reheating
Since these sandwiches are meant to be served cold and fresh, reheating isn’t recommended. Instead, prepare just before serving for the best experience.
FAQs
Can I use other types of bread for this recipe?
Absolutely! While white or whole wheat bread is classic, you can experiment with rye or multigrain for additional flavor and texture, though keep in mind the sandwiches might have a different look and flavor profile.
What can I substitute for mayonnaise in the spread?
If you prefer to avoid mayonnaise, plain Greek yogurt can be used as a lighter alternative, adding tang and creaminess while keeping the Benedictine spread smooth.
How thin should the cucumber slices be?
The thinner, the better—ideally sliced with a mandoline or very sharp knife—ensuring the cucumber layers are delicate and contribute a fresh crunch without overwhelming the sandwich.
Can this recipe be made vegan?
Yes! Swap out cream cheese and mayonnaise for vegan alternatives, and use a sturdy vegan bread. Keep the herbs and mustard the same to preserve flavor.
Is there a way to make these sandwiches more filling?
To add a bit more substance, you might include thin slices of smoked salmon or a sprinkle of chopped fresh chives or green onions in your spread, enhancing both taste and heartiness without losing elegance.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a fresh, light, and inviting snack that feels like a hug in every bite, this Creamy Cucumber Tea Sandwiches Recipe is your new best friend. It’s effortless yet refined, perfect for impressing company or just treating yourself on a sunny afternoon. Give it a try—you’ll be delighted by how something so simple can taste so spectacular.
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Creamy Cucumber Tea Sandwiches Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Creamy Cucumber Tea Sandwiches are a refreshing and elegant treat perfect for afternoon tea, brunch, or light gatherings. Featuring thinly sliced cucumbers paired with a smooth and flavorful Benedictine spread made from cream cheese, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and fresh dill, these sandwiches offer a delightful combination of creamy texture and crisp freshness. Quick and easy to assemble, they are sure to impress guests with their delicate flavors and attractive presentation.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 medium cucumber, peeled and thinly sliced
Spread
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried dill)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Bread & Garnish
- 8 slices white or whole wheat bread, crusts removed
- Fresh parsley or dill for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Cucumber: Place the thin cucumber slices in a clean kitchen towel or paper towels, sprinkle with a little salt, and let them sit for 10-15 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Afterward, pat them dry thoroughly with another towel to avoid soggy sandwiches.
- Make the Benedictine Spread: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, fresh or dried dill, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix together well until the spread is smooth, creamy, and evenly blended.
- Assemble the Sandwiches: Spread a generous layer of the Benedictine spread onto one side of each slice of bread. Arrange the cucumber slices evenly over half of the bread slices on top of the spread.
- Finish and Serve: Place the remaining bread slices on top of the cucumber-covered slices, cream cheese side down, to form sandwiches. Slice each sandwich into quarters or triangles. Garnish with fresh parsley or dill if desired. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve to maintain freshness.
Notes
- For best results, peel the cucumber to avoid bitterness and ensure tenderness.
- Removing excess moisture from cucumber slices prevents the sandwiches from becoming soggy.
- Use chilled cream cheese for easier spreading and better texture.
- Whole wheat bread can be substituted for white bread to add fiber and nutrients.
- These sandwiches are best served fresh but can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
- Adjust the amount of garlic powder and dill according to taste preference.
