Cucumber Tea Sandwiches with Herbed Cream Cheese

There’s something so charming about a classic cucumber tea sandwich. I always feel a little extra fancy making them, even if it’s just for a casual afternoon snack.

These delicate sandwiches are made with thin-sliced cucumbers and a tangy herbed cream cheese spread, all layered between soft white or wheat bread.

They’re elegant, refreshing, and surprisingly easy to make.

Jump to Recipe

Recipe Highlights

These Cucumber Tea Sandwiches are perfect for bridal showers, garden parties, or any occasion that calls for something dainty and delicious.

The herbed cream cheese adds a rich layer of flavor, while the cucumbers provide a crisp, clean crunch.

You can trim the crusts and cut into little squares or triangles for that authentic tea-time feel.

• Elegant and bite-sized for easy entertaining
  .
• Made in under 20 minutes
  .
• No cooking required
  .
• Creamy, herby, crisp, and light
  .
• Vegetarian and customizable

How to Make My Cucumber Tea Sandwiches

1. Make the herbed spread: In a small bowl, mix softened cream cheese with chopped herbs, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth.
   .
2. Prepare the cucumbers: Wash and slice cucumbers into very thin rounds. You can pat them dry with a paper towel to reduce moisture.
   .
3. Assemble: Spread a generous layer of the herbed cream cheese on one side of each slice of bread.
   .
4. Layer cucumbers: Lay the cucumber slices over half the bread slices in a single layer. Top with the remaining slices of bread.
   .
5. Trim and slice: Trim crusts if desired. Cut sandwiches into halves, quarters, triangles, or use cookie cutters for fun shapes.
   .
6. Serve immediately or chill briefly.

Creating the Perfect Cucumber Tea Sandwiches

These cucumber tea sandwiches are a delightful addition to any afternoon tea or light lunch.

Made with soft white or wheat sandwich bread, they feature thinly sliced English cucumber nestled between layers of creamy herbed filling.

The combination of flavors and textures makes them a refreshing choice for gatherings or quiet moments at home.

The herbed cream cheese is enhanced with finely chopped fresh dill or chives, a splash of lemon juice, and seasoned with kosher salt and black pepper, ensuring each bite is bursting with flavor.

Ingredients for a Refreshing Treat

To prepare these elegant sandwiches, you will need a few key ingredients.

Start with 12 slices of soft white or wheat sandwich bread, which provide a perfect base.

Next, gather one medium English cucumber, thinly sliced, to add that refreshing crunch.

The star of the filling is 8 ounces of softened cream cheese, which will be mixed with 2 tablespoons of finely chopped fresh dill or chives.

A tablespoon of lemon juice, along with a pinch of kosher salt and black pepper, rounds out the flavor profile.

• Cucumber: English or Persian cucumbers are ideal for their thin skins and subtle flavor. Slice them very thin for the best texture.
  .
• Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese forms the rich, creamy base of the spread.
  .
• Fresh Herbs: Use dill, chives, or parsley to flavor the cream cheese.
  .
• Bread: Soft white or wheat sandwich bread works best. Avoid very crusty bread.
  .
• Lemon Juice: Adds a bit of brightness to the cream cheese spread.
  .
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning.

Preparation Steps for Success

Begin by preparing the herbed cream cheese.

In a bowl, mix the softened cream cheese with the chopped dill or chives, lemon juice, kosher salt, and black pepper until well combined.

This creamy mixture will serve as the heart of your sandwiches.

Next, assemble the sandwiches by spreading a generous layer of the herbed cream cheese on one side of each slice of bread.

Top half of the slices with the thinly sliced cucumbers, ensuring they are evenly distributed for a balanced bite.

Finishing Touches for Presentation

To complete the sandwiches, place the remaining slices of bread on top, cream cheese side down.

Trim the crusts off the sandwiches for a neat presentation, then cut each sandwich into quarters or triangles.

Arranging the sandwiches on a delicate china plate adds a touch of charm to your tea-time setting.

Consider garnishing with fresh herbs for an extra pop of color and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

These cucumber tea sandwiches can be served immediately or refrigerated until ready to serve.

They pair beautifully with a pot of tea, making them an ideal choice for afternoon gatherings or casual get-togethers.

Consider presenting them alongside other light snacks for a delightful spread that guests will enjoy.

The combination of flavors and the elegant presentation will surely impress everyone at the table.

Serve these alongside a pot of tea, lemonade, or sparkling water. They pair wonderfully with fruit platters, scones, or mini desserts.

Ideal for baby showers, brunch buffets, or picnic spreads.

Nutrition and Enjoyment

Each sandwich is not only delicious but also relatively light, with approximately 80 calories per serving.

With 6 grams of fat and 2 grams of protein, they make for a satisfying snack without being overly indulgent.

Enjoy these cucumber tea sandwiches as a refreshing treat that embodies the charm of afternoon tea.

Their delightful flavors and elegant presentation make them a must-try for any occasion.

Tips for the Best Cucumber Tea Sandwiches

Use softened cream cheese so it spreads easily without tearing the bread. Slice cucumbers as thin as possible using a sharp knife or mandoline.

To prevent soggy sandwiches, pat cucumbers dry and serve within a few hours of assembling.

If prepping ahead, keep sandwiches covered with a damp paper towel and plastic wrap in the fridge.

Storage of Leftovers

Store assembled sandwiches in the refrigerator, layered with wax paper and covered in plastic wrap, for up to 1 day.