Save to Pinterest Delicate and refreshing, these classic English tea sandwiches are a quintessential addition to any afternoon gathering. Crisp cucumber slices are paired with a vibrant, herbed cream cheese spread on soft white bread to create a light yet satisfying bite.
Save to Pinterest The secret to these sandwiches lies in the fresh herbs—dill, chives, and parsley—which elevate the cream cheese into a savory spread that perfectly complements the cool, crisp cucumber.
Ingredients
- 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
- 2 tbsp fresh dill, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh chives, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 English cucumber, thinly sliced
- 12 slices soft white sandwich bread, crusts removed
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1
- In a bowl, combine the cream cheese, dill, chives, parsley, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and well blended.
- Step 2
- If desired, lightly spread softened butter on one side of each bread slice to prevent sogginess.
- Step 3
- Evenly spread a generous layer of the herbed cream cheese onto each bread slice.
- Step 4
- Arrange cucumber slices in a single layer over half of the bread slices.
- Step 5
- Top with the remaining bread slices, cream cheese side down, to form sandwiches.
- Step 6
- Gently press together and trim edges if necessary for neatness.
- Step 7
- Cut each sandwich into halves or quarters, as preferred. Serve immediately or cover with a damp paper towel and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
To ensure the neatest presentation, use a very sharp knife when trimming the crusts and cutting the sandwiches into quarters. Removing the crusts is a hallmark of the classic English style.
Varianten und Anpassungen
While soft white bread is traditional, whole wheat or multigrain bread can provide a lovely texture. For a vegan-friendly version, simply substitute the cream cheese and butter with your favorite plant-based alternatives.
Serviervorschläge
Arrange these sandwiches on a tiered cake stand alongside scones and petits fours. They pair beautifully with a pot of Earl Grey or a light, floral Darjeeling tea.
Save to Pinterest Whether for a formal tea or a simple lunch, these sandwiches bring a touch of elegance and fresh flavor to the table with minimal effort.
Common Recipe Questions
- → What type of bread works best?
Soft white sandwich bread with crusts removed is ideal, but whole wheat or multigrain can add texture.
- → How can I prevent soggy sandwiches?
Lightly spreading softened butter on the bread helps create a moisture barrier, keeping sandwiches fresh.
- → Can the herb mixture be customized?
Yes, feel free to adjust herbs like dill, chives, and parsley to your taste preference or seasonal availability.
- → How to add extra flavor?
A sprinkle of cracked black pepper over cucumber slices enhances the fresh, savory notes.
- → Are there vegan options?
Replacing cream cheese and butter with plant-based alternatives makes this suitable for vegan diets.