Classic Cucumber Tea Sandwiches Recipe
Introduction
Classic cucumber tea sandwiches are a light and refreshing treat, perfect for afternoon tea or elegant gatherings. These delicate bites combine creamy cheese and crisp cucumbers with a hint of fresh dill for a timeless flavor.
Ingredients
- White bread, thinly sliced
- English cucumbers, thinly sliced
- Cream cheese, softened
- Fresh dill, finely chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Step 1: Remove the crusts from the bread slices if desired. Spread a thin, even layer of softened cream cheese over each slice.
- Step 2: Place cucumber slices over half of the bread slices evenly.
- Step 3: Sprinkle the cucumber slices with finely chopped fresh dill, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Step 4: Top each cucumber-covered slice with a plain cream cheese-coated slice. Press gently to adhere and cut into traditional triangles or rectangles.
- Step 5: Refrigerate the assembled sandwiches for about an hour before serving. This chills the sandwiches and allows the flavors to meld.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, mix a little lemon zest into the cream cheese before spreading.
- Use whole wheat or rye bread for a healthier or more robust alternative.
- Replace cream cheese with herbed goat cheese for a tangier twist.
- Try adding thin slices of smoked salmon for an elegant variation.
Storage
Store the sandwiches in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. It’s best to prepare them the same day you plan to serve to avoid soggy bread. If needed, re-chill before serving for the best texture.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I prepare cucumber tea sandwiches ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare them a few hours in advance and keep them refrigerated. However, making them the same day helps maintain the bread’s texture and freshness.
What is the best bread to use for these sandwiches?
Soft white bread is traditional for its delicate texture, but thinly sliced whole wheat or rye bread can also work well depending on your preference.
PrintClassic Cucumber Tea Sandwiches Recipe
Classic Cucumber Tea Sandwiches are a delicate and refreshing appetizer perfect for afternoon tea or elegant gatherings. These sandwiches feature thinly sliced cucumbers layered on soft white bread with a creamy dill-infused cream cheese spread, seasoned lightly with salt and pepper. Chilled to enhance flavor melding, they offer a light, crisp bite that is both simple and sophisticated.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 sandwiches 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: British
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Bread
- 8 slices white bread, thinly sliced
Spread
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, finely chopped
Filling
- 1 English cucumber, thinly sliced
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Bread: Remove the crusts from the bread slices if desired. Spread a thin and even layer of softened cream cheese over each slice to provide a creamy base for the cucumbers.
- Arrange the Cucumbers: Place the thinly sliced cucumbers evenly over half of the bread slices, ensuring good coverage without overlapping excessively for a balanced texture.
- Season: Sprinkle the layered cucumbers with finely chopped fresh dill, along with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, enhancing the fresh flavors.
- Assemble: Top the cucumber-covered slices with the remaining bread slices, cream cheese side down. Press gently to seal, then cut into traditional shapes such as triangles or rectangles for presentation.
- Chill: Refrigerate the assembled sandwiches for at least one hour before serving. This step allows the flavors to blend and the sandwiches to firm up slightly, improving texture and taste.
Notes
- For a gluten-free version, substitute the white bread with gluten-free bread slices.
- To enhance flavor, add a light spread of butter under the cream cheese.
- Use seedless cucumbers for a crisper texture and less moisture.
- These sandwiches are best served chilled and consumed within 24 hours for freshness.
- Variations can include adding thin slices of radish or fresh mint for different flavor profiles.
Keywords: cucumber sandwich, tea sandwich, cream cheese cucumber sandwich, classic tea sandwiches, cucumber appetizer, fresh appetizer, easy tea sandwich
