Cucumber Tea Sandwiches

You don't have to be on Downton Abbey to enjoy a lovely cup of tea with classic cucumber tea sandwiches. Give your Southern brunch, cocktail, or tea party a touch of class with these delicate nibbles.

Cucumber tea sandwiches consist of a spread of herbed cream cheese and sliced cucumbers in between thin slices of white bread. The crusts are cut from the sandwiches, for a hint of refinement, and the sandwiches are cut in triangles or “fingers” to be easy to eat.

Salting the cucumbers before using helps reduce excess moisture in the sandwiches, while a hint of lemon zest helps brighten their flavor, balancing any bitterness. A touch of mayonnaise in the spread adds a creamy nuance your guests will appreciate.

What Are Tea Sandwiches?

Also known as finger sandwiches, tea sandwiches are small, dainty sandwiches typically served cut into small rectangles at garden parties or elegant events. They're meant to be eaten in just a few bites, and are often prepared with soft, thinly sliced bread with the crusts cut off, with light but flavorful fillings. Sliced cucumbers, egg salad, chicken salmon, smoked salmon, ham and cheese, or pimento cheese are all popular fillings.

Ingredients for Cucumber Tea Sandwiches

We leveled up the classic filling of sliced cucumbers, cream cheese, and herbs with a hint of lemon zest and mayonnaise for a flavorful twist. To make cucumber tea sandwiches, you'll need:

• English cucumber: A firm cucumber with small seeds and a crisp texture.
• Kosher salt: To coat the cucumbers to help remove excess moisture, while also adding flavor.
• Cream cheese: The base of a creamy, tangy spread for the sandwiches.
• Mayonnaise: Adds a creamy richness to the spread.
• Lemon zest: Brightens the sandwiches with a touch of citrusy zing.
• Fresh dill and chives: For flecks of green and a fresh, herbaceous flavor.
• Firm sandwich bread: A light, classic base for cucumber sandwiches.
  

How To Make Cucumber Tea Sandwiches

Salting the cucumbers might be an additional step, but reducing the moisture in the cucumbers is oh-so-worth it when you see the results. Full instructions are below, but here's a brief recap before you get started:

• Step 1. Salt the cucumber slices: In a bowl, toss the cucumber slices with salt. Spread in an even layer onto a clean kitchen towel. Roll up and let stand.
• Step 2. Make cream cheese spread: Stir together the cream cheese, mayonnaise and lemon zest, along with the dill and chives.
• Step 3. Build cucumber sandwiches: Lay out four slices of bread and coat evenly with 1/4 cup cream cheese mixture. Top evenly with cucumber slices, then the remaining bread. Press down lightly.
• Step 4. Slice for serving: Cut off the crusts, if desired, then cut into triangles or "fingers." Serve or wrap and refrigerate for up to 4 hours.

Cucumber Tea Sandwiches Variations

To change up these cucumber tea sandwiches, consider these variation ideas:

• Type of bread: While white sandwich bread is a classic choice, you can also make cucumber tea sandwiches with whole grain, rye, pumpernickel, or other types of thinly sliced breads as preferred.
• Veggies: Add sliced avocado, red onions, olives, jalapeños, radishes, or carrot ribbons for additional color, flavor, and texture in the sandwiches.
• Protein: Layer on slices of smoked salmon, roast beef, or turkey for additional protein and flavor.
• Spice it up: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the spread for a spicy kick.

How To Prevent a Soggy Sandwich

Of course, nobody likes a soggy tea sandwich. Salting the cucumbers is an easy way to wick away excess moisture in your cucumbers, and makes a big difference in the end results. Simply toss the slices with salt, then roll up in a kitchen towel. Your cucumbers will be slightly softened and less slippery in the sandwich.

The type of bread can also make a big difference. This is not the sandwich for a peasant bread with big, open holes in it. A finely-textured sandwich bread like Pepperidge Farm or other Pullman-style bread is the way to go for neat and pretty slices that won't become soggy within minutes. Avoid making the sandwiches too far in advance to make sure they have the perfect texture for serving.

Can I Make Cucumber Tea Sandwiches Ahead?

While you can make cucumber tea sandwiches ahead if you need to get ahead of your party prep, doing so too far in advance can result in sandwiches with a less-than-ideal texture, and muddled flavor.

To get ahead, prepare the cream cheese spread up to one day in advance, and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Let soften at room temperature before using for a spreadable consistency. The cucumbers can also be salted in advance, drained, and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator the night before using. Then, all you'll have to do is assemble the sandwiches up to an hour or two ahead of the party and refrigerate until ready to serve.

What To Serve With Cucumber Tea Sandwiches

Tea sandwiches are often served as part of an afternoon tea spread or as a light appetizer, along with scones, pastries, and other light bites. Place onto a tiered tray for additional elegance, and consider offering a variety of tea sandwiches for a traditional presentation. You can also pair with crudité, fresh fruit, or cheese platters for a classic party spread.

Why This Recipe Gets Rave Reviews

We aren't alone in thinking these delightful little sandwiches are the perfect addition to any spring or summer party menu.

Char Cunha commented, "Made it just as given and was amazingly refreshing!"

One Southern Living community member said, "This was a huge hit at the backyard, outdoor family oriented baby shower. It was refreshing between the sweets and salty fare."

Cindy Rose added, "First, yes I'm from NC! Born and raised!! I LIVE on cucumber sandwiches!!! 1 addition to add to it, Avocado!! FANTASTIC!!!"

More Elegant Tea Sandwich Recipes You'll Love

What's better than serving a pretty platter of cucumber tea sandwiches? Pairing them with a variety of other sandwiches, with different colors, flavors, and textures so every guest can find something they love.

• Tomato Tea Sandwiches
• Sweet Onion Sandwiches
• The Masters Egg Salad Sandwiches
• Mini Tomato Sandwiches with Bacon Mayonnaise
• Kentucky Benedictine Sandwiches

Editorial contributions by Katie Rosenhouse.