Cucumber Cream Cheese Tea Sandwiches Light Bites Fit for a Queen or You
Table of Contents
Recipe Introduction
Quick Hook
Fancy a cuppa and a cucumber cream cheese sandwich ? Honestly, these little sandwiches are pure joy. They are light, refreshing, and utterly moreish.
Brief Overview
Tea sandwiches cucumber are a British classic. They have been served at afternoon tea for decades. This recipe is super easy and takes about 45 minutes to make.
It yields 4 servings, perfect for a small gathering.
Main Benefits
These cream cheese sandwiches are healthy and delicious. Cucumbers are packed with vitamins and hydration. They're perfect for a light lunch or afternoon tea sandwiches.
What makes this recipe special? It's simple elegance and fresh flavour.
The Magic of Cucumber Cream Cheese Sandwiches
Do you know why this little cucumber cream cheese sandwich is so popular? It's the perfect balance of flavours and textures.
The cool, crisp cucumber against the rich, creamy cheese is just divine.
Where Do They Come From?
These aren't just any old sandwich. This is a British tea sandwiches tradition. They were created to be part of an afternoon tea.
It brings a refreshing counterpoint to scones and cakes. This recipe is basically British sunshine on a plate.
What Makes These Sandwiches Shine?
Let's be honest, nobody likes a soggy sandwich. It is why the chilling step is important. It lets the flavours meld and keeps the bread from becoming soggy.
This recipe gives you elegant sandwiches for brunch every time.
Simple Ingredients, Stunning Results
This cucumber sandwiches recipes uses basic ingredients. Fresh cucumber, creamy cheese, and soft bread make the magic. A little dill and chives add an extra pop.
You can serve them as party sandwiches recipes.
Don't Skip the Chill Time
Pop them in the fridge for 30 minutes after they're made. It is really important! Chill time means the flavours will develop.
Also, the bread will firm up and be easier to cut. These sandwiches are also amazing cucumber and cream cheese appetizers .
Time to grab your ingredients and get started. You won't regret it. These little beauties are the perfect finger sandwiches recipes.
Right, let's get down to brass tacks, shall we? These Cucumber Cream Cheese Tea Sandwiches aren’t complicated. You probably have most of this stuff already. But good ingredients make all the difference.
Ingredients & Equipment
Main Players: The Essentials
You'll need 8 slices of soft white bread. Think Pepperidge Farm or Wonder Bread. About 80g in total. Don’t be using that crusty sourdough you like.
Trust me on this one. Next, 4 ounces (113g) of cream cheese, softened. Full fat or reduced fat, your call. I usually go for full fat.
It’s richer, you know? Then, 1/4 cup (60 ml) of mayonnaise. Again, full fat or light works. 2 tablespoons (30ml) of fresh dill, chopped fine.
Or 1 tbsp if you're using dried. And 1 tablespoon (15ml) fresh chives, finely chopped. Or 1 tsp dried. Finally, 1/4 teaspoon (1.
5 ml) salt and 1/8 teaspoon (0.75 ml) black pepper. You got it.
And, of course, a crucial part is 1 English cucumber . About 200g , thinly sliced. Use a mandoline for consistent slices. If you have one, that is.
Seasoning Secrets: Upping the Ante
For this recipe, we want simple and clean flavours. Dill and chives are a classic combination. They bring a freshness that just works with the cucumber.
You can add a tiny pinch of garlic powder. It's only if you’re feeling daring. And you know, lemon zest is amazing with the cream cheese.
About a teaspoon. Adds a nice zing!
Gear Up: What You'll Actually Need
Keep it simple, yeah? You need a sharp knife. The sharper the better, mate. A cutting board, obviously. A mixing bowl for the cream cheese.
A spatula or butter knife to spread the goods. Some cling film. This'll keep things fresh while they chill. Honestly, it’s all pretty straightforward.
For those searching for Tea Sandwiches Cucumber or Cucumber Sandwiches Recipes , this is a foolproof starting point. These aren't just any Cream Cheese Sandwiches ; they're the perfect Tea Time Cucumber Sandwiches .
Making a bunch of Party Sandwiches Recipes ? These are a must! Looking for Afternoon Tea Sandwiches ? Right here, sorted.
Simple, classy and delicious. They're perfect as Finger Sandwiches Recipes or even Cucumber and Cream Cheese Appetizers . Proper British Tea Sandwiches , these are.
And pretty damn Elegant Sandwiches for Brunch , if you ask me.
Now, this is where I'd normally tell you about the time I forgot the dill and nearly had a breakdown. But we'll save that for another day, eh?
Cooking Method: Assembling the Perfect Cucumber Cream Cheese Sandwich
Right, let's talk cucumber cream cheese sandwich assembly. Honestly, it's simple, but a few tricks make all the difference. Think of it as building blocks for flavour! This is one of the Cucumber Sandwiches Recipes I rely on, especially when I want to make Tea Sandwiches Cucumber .
Prep Like a Pro
First things first, mise en place , darling! Get everything ready. Soften your cream cheese. Chop your herbs. Slice your cucumber thinly .
Like, really thinly. I use a mandoline for this. Careful with those things, though! You don't want to lose a finger.
It might sound bougie, but proper prep is half the battle. It ensures you have Elegant Sandwiches for Brunch . Pat the cucumber slices dry.
Seriously. Nobody likes a soggy sandwich.
step-by-step Sandwich Magic
Ready to assemble these Finger Sandwiches Recipes ? Let's do it.
- Mix your softened cream cheese with mayonnaise, dill, chives, salt, and pepper. It should be smooth.
- Spread the cream cheese mix generously onto four slices of bread. Get it right to the edges.
- Layer your super thin cucumber slices on top of the cream cheese. Be neat!
- Top with the remaining bread slices. Cream cheese side down, naturally.
- Wrap tightly in cling film. Chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes . This is key!
- Cut each sandwich diagonally in half. Serve immediately.
Pro Tips for Tea Time Triumph
Want to elevate your Tea Time Cucumber Sandwiches ? Add a whisper of lemon zest to your cream cheese mixture.
It brightens everything up. Press the sandwiches gently before chilling. The filling will stick better. Also, don't skip the chilling step.
Trust me. It's vital. If you're preparing these for a Party Sandwiches Recipes and want to get ahead, make the cream cheese mixture the day before.
It tastes even better the next day! They are great Cucumber and Cream Cheese Appetizers .
So, there you have it. A classic British Tea Sandwiches made easy.
Recipe Notes
Right, let’s dive into some extra bits and bobs about these elegant sandwiches for brunch . Honestly, there’s more to it than just slapping some cucumber and cheese between bread! These cucumber cream cheese sandwiches are all about the details.
Serving it Up Like a Pro
Think about presentation! After all, we eat with our eyes first, don’t we? For plating and presentation ideas, arrange these tea sandwiches cucumber on a nice platter.
Garnish with extra dill sprigs. These afternoon tea sandwiches look amazing served with a side salad. Maybe some mixed greens and a light vinaigrette? For drinks, a cool glass of iced tea or even a cheeky Pimm’s would go down a treat.
Storing Like a Boss
Listen, these cream cheese sandwiches are best fresh. But, life happens. If you have leftovers, wrap them tightly in cling film.
Stash them in the fridge. They'll be good for about 24 hours. I wouldn’t recommend freezing them. The cucumber will get all soggy.
Nobody wants a soggy sandwich. Don't take longer than a day to enjoy your cucumber cream cheese sandwich , they are way better.
When reheating, don't. It is not recommended.
Twists and Turns
Fancy a bit of a change? You can easily tweak these to suit your diet. For a veggie option, use the recipe as is.
For a lighter option, swap full fat cream cheese for a light version. As for seasonal swaps, you could add some radish slices.
The radish will add a peppery kick in springtime. Swap dill with mint. Use mint for a refreshing summery taste.
Goodness Inside
Let's talk nutrition. Roughly, one serving has about 250 calories. It's got protein, fats, and carbs, you know. The cucumber adds hydration.
The cream cheese gives you some calcium. All in all, not bad for a finger sandwiches recipes . They also make perfect party sandwiches recipes .
Look, these british tea sandwiches are dead easy to make. These cucumber cream cheese sandwich bites are just so delicious.
So, get in the kitchen. Have a go. You’ll be whipping up these cucumber sandwiches recipes in no time!. Honestly, if I can do it, anyone can!
Frequently Asked Questions
Help! My cucumber cream cheese sandwich is soggy. What did I do wrong?
Soggy sandwiches are a common woe! The main culprit is usually moisture from the cucumber. Before assembling, try patting the cucumber slices dry with a paper towel to remove excess water. Also, don't skip the chilling step it helps the bread firm up and keeps the flavors from running amok.
Can I make these cucumber cream cheese sandwiches ahead of time? Like, the day before a picnic?
You can, but with a few caveats. Making them too far in advance can lead to soggy bread. Wrap them tightly in cling film, but aim to make them no more than 4-6 hours before serving. This keeps the "bits" and the "bobs" fresh.
For a picnic, consider packing the cream cheese spread and cucumber separately and assembling on site for ultimate freshness.
What kind of bread is best for a cucumber cream cheese sandwich, and do I really need to remove the crusts?
Soft, white bread is traditional think of it as the Mary Berry approved choice! Crusts off is also the classic approach, creating a more delicate texture. However, if you prefer a heartier bite, whole wheat bread works too. Leaving the crusts on is perfectly acceptable if you're not aiming for peak poshness.
I'm trying to be a bit healthier. Are there any lower calorie variations of this cucumber cream cheese sandwich?
Absolutely! Use reduced fat cream cheese and light mayonnaise. You could also substitute some of the mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt for an extra protein boost. Consider whole wheat bread for added fiber, and pile on the cucumber for extra vitamins without adding many calories.
Can I add anything else to the cream cheese spread for my cucumber cream cheese sandwich?
Certainly! Lemon zest adds a bright, citrusy note that complements the cucumber beautifully. A pinch of garlic powder or a dash of Worcestershire sauce can also add a subtle savory depth. Feel free to experiment with your favorite herbs and spices; a little goes a long way!
How long will these cucumber cream cheese sandwiches last in the fridge?
Ideally, enjoy your cucumber cream cheese sandwiches within 24 hours of making them. After that, the bread tends to get soggy, and the cucumber loses its crispness. Make sure to store them wrapped tightly in cling film to maintain their freshness as long as possible.
Cucumber Cream Cheese Tea Sandwiches Light Bites
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 250 calories |
|---|---|
| Fat | 15g |
| Fiber | 1g |