Cucumber Tea Sandwiches

When it comes to elegant, bite-sized treats, nothing beats the freshness and simplicity of Cucumber Tea Sandwiches. These dainty little sandwiches are the epitome of tea-time sophistication, yet they’re as light and refreshing as can be. Picture thin slices of crisp cucumber, nestled between delicate white bread, with just a hint of creamy spread to tie it all together. Whether you’re hosting a garden party, enjoying afternoon tea, or just in the mood for something light and refreshing, these sandwiches are the perfect snack. They’re easy to make, look absolutely adorable, and always impress with their crisp, cool flavor. Plus, they’re an ideal way to get a bit of fresh veggie goodness in a fun way!

Why You’ll Love Cucumber Tea Sandwiches

• Refreshing: The cucumber brings a cool, crisp crunch that’s perfect for a light snack or appetizer.
• Elegant: These sandwiches look so fancy, they’re perfect for any gathering where you want to impress your guests without stressing yourself out.
• Quick & Easy: With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, these sandwiches come together in no time.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your own twist—herbed cream cheese, dill, or a bit of lemon zest can elevate the flavor to your liking.
• Great for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a formal tea or a casual get-together, these cucumber sandwiches always feel special.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up these perfect cucumber tea sandwiches:

For the Sandwiches:

• Cucumber: Thinly sliced for that delicate crunch. English cucumbers work best as they have fewer seeds and a smoother skin.
• White Bread: Soft and pillowy, this bread is perfect for these sandwiches. You can also use whole wheat or a light multigrain bread if you prefer.
• Cream Cheese: A smooth, creamy base for the spread. This helps bind everything together while adding richness.
• Butter: Softened, to spread lightly on the bread for added moisture and flavor.
• Fresh Dill (optional): For a pop of fresh, herbaceous flavor.
• Salt & Pepper: To season the cucumbers and balance the flavors.

(Note: Full ingredient measurements are provided in the recipe card below.)

Instructions

Let’s assemble these delightful little sandwiches:

1. Prepare the Cucumbers:

Start by washing and drying the cucumber. Cut it into thin slices, using a mandoline if you have one to make sure they’re super even. You can also lightly salt the cucumber slices and let them sit for a few minutes to draw out any excess water. Then, gently pat them dry with a paper towel.

2. Prepare the Bread:

Lay out your bread slices and cut off the crusts with a sharp knife. You’ll want these sandwiches to be as neat and tidy as possible. If you’re feeling fancy, you can use a cookie cutter to make the sandwiches into fun shapes, like circles or triangles!

3. Make the Creamy Spread:

In a small bowl, mix together the cream cheese and butter until smooth and combined. Add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. If you’re using fresh dill, add it now for a fresh burst of flavor.

4. Assemble the Sandwiches:

Spread a thin layer of the cream cheese mixture on each slice of bread. Layer the cucumber slices evenly on one piece of bread. Top with another slice of bread, pressing down lightly to hold everything together.

5. Slice & Serve:

Cut each sandwich into quarters, either as neat triangles or dainty finger sandwiches. Serve them on a platter with a garnish of fresh herbs if desired.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 4 (for 16 sandwiches)
• Calories per serving: 150
• Total Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Cholesterol: 20mg
• Sodium: 290mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 18g
• Dietary Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 3g
• Protein: 3g

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 10 minutes

How to Serve Cucumber Tea Sandwiches

• With a Pot of Tea: These sandwiches pair perfectly with a hot pot of Earl Grey or any delicate tea of your choice.
• With Fresh Fruit: Serve alongside sliced strawberries, grapes, or citrus for a fresh, light spread.
• On a Platter: Arrange these sandwiches on a pretty platter, garnished with fresh herbs like dill or parsley for a beautiful touch.
• As Part of a Buffet: These little sandwiches are great for brunch or a finger-food buffet.

Additional Tips

• Make Ahead: These sandwiches are best served fresh, but you can prep the cucumber slices and the cream cheese mixture ahead of time. Just assemble right before serving to keep them crisp.
• Add Fresh Herbs: Experiment with fresh herbs like mint, tarragon, or basil in the cream cheese spread for a unique twist.
• Use Whole Wheat Bread: If you want to make these a bit heartier, swap out the white bread for whole wheat or another type of soft, hearty bread.
• Try Different Spreads: For a bit more flavor, try mixing in a little bit of lemon zest or a teaspoon of Dijon mustard into the cream cheese spread.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I make these ahead of time?
A1: Yes! You can prep the cucumber slices and cream cheese mixture the night before. Just assemble the sandwiches right before serving to keep the bread from getting soggy.

Q2: What type of bread should I use?
A2: Soft white bread is traditional, but you can also use whole wheat or multigrain bread if you prefer a healthier option. The key is to choose bread that’s soft and light.

Q3: How do I keep the sandwiches from getting soggy?
A3: Be sure to pat the cucumber slices dry before assembling the sandwiches. This will help prevent excess moisture from soaking into the bread. Also, assemble the sandwiches just before serving for the freshest taste.

Q4: Can I use flavored cream cheese?
A4: Absolutely! If you want to add a twist, try using herbed cream cheese or even garlic-flavored cream cheese. Just be sure to balance the flavors with the mildness of the cucumber.

Q5: Can I add other vegetables?
A5: While cucumbers are the star of these sandwiches, you can definitely experiment with thinly sliced radishes, avocado, or even sprouts for added crunch and freshness.

Q6: Can I make these gluten-free?
A6: Yes! Simply swap out the bread for gluten-free bread, and you’re good to go.

Q7: How long will the sandwiches last?
A7: These sandwiches are best eaten within a few hours of making them, as the bread can get soggy. However, the filling can be kept in the fridge for up to a day.

Q8: Can I add a little spice to these?
A8: Yes! If you want to add a bit of kick, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cream cheese spread or topping the sandwiches with a bit of spicy mustard.

Q9: Can I use a different spread?
A9: Absolutely! While cream cheese is traditional, you can try using ricotta, goat cheese, or even a simple butter spread for a different flavor.

Q10: Can I serve these as part of a larger menu?
A10: Definitely! These sandwiches work beautifully as part of a tea party spread, with other items like scones, finger foods, and fresh fruit.

Conclusion

These Cucumber Tea Sandwiches are the perfect balance of freshness and flavor—light, refreshing, and oh-so-pretty. Whether you’re hosting an elegant afternoon tea or simply treating yourself to something fancy, these sandwiches are a guaranteed hit. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to make, so you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the company around you. Enjoy!

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