Perfectly Proper Cucumber Sandwiches

How to Make Cucumber Sandwiches Perfectly English Recipe

By OliviaAugust 23, 2025

Table of Contents

Recipe Introduction

Quick Hook

Ever wondered how to make cucumber sandwiches like the ones you see in period dramas? Honestly, they’re easier than you think! The cool cucumber and creamy, herby cheese is just perfect.

This simple recipe is all about the fresh, clean taste.

Brief Overview

These dainty sandwiches are a classic English tradition. Think high tea mini sandwiches ! They’re super easy to make. Prep takes about 20 minutes.

Chilling is 30 minutes. This recipe makes 6-8 sandwiches.

Main Benefits

Creamy cucumber tea sandwiches aren't just tasty, they're lighter than many snacks. That cucumber keeps you hydrated! These are perfect sandwiches for guests at a summer garden party.

What makes them special? It's the simple elegance.

The Star of the Show: Crisp Cucumbers

Forget soggy sandwiches. The secret is prepping the cucumber. You have to draw out that extra moisture. I always use an English cucumber because they're less watery. Salting the cucumber is key.

What You'll Need: Ingredients

Right then, let’s gather our bits and bobs, shall we? You'll need one English cucumber. Don't forget half a teaspoon of salt! Grab eight slices of white bread (crusts off, of course).

You'll want four ounces of cream cheese and two tablespoons of butter. Make sure they are softened! We will need one tablespoon each of dill and chives.

Finally, a quarter teaspoon of pepper. This is the ultimate English tea sandwiches recipe .

Creamy Dream: The Cheese Spread

Now, for the star of the show: the creamy, dreamy filling. In a small bowl, mix that softened cream cheese.

Add the softened butter, dill, chives, and pepper. Mix well. Cucumber and cream cheese finger sandwiches are all about that spread.

You can add some herbs.

Assembling Your Masterpiece

Pat those cucumber slices dry. Spread the cream cheese mix on each slice of bread. Layer on the cucumber. Top with another slice of bread.

You're creating afternoon tea sandwich ideas ! Now trim the crusts. Cut into triangles or fingers. An elegant cucumber sandwich recipe ready to impress.

Time for Tea

These cucumber sandwiches are the ultimate snack. They are perfect with a cuppa! I like mine with Earl Grey. Think about offering them with scones and clotted cream.

Enjoy your taste of England! You may also want to try some cucumber sandwich variations .

Let's Talk Ingredients & Gear, Darling!

Alright, let’s dive into what you'll need for these oh-so- English tea sandwiches recipe . Don't worry, it's not rocket science! These Creamy Cucumber Tea Sandwiches are easier than you think.

Main Players in Our Sandwich Drama

Here's the lowdown on what goes into these high tea mini sandwiches . It's all about fresh, good quality ingredients.

Cucumber: 1 English cucumber (about 12 inches). Go for organic if you can. We are talking about Sandwich With Cucumber !
Salt: 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt. Honestly, this is key.
Bread: 8 slices good quality white bread. Crusts OFF, people!
Cream Cheese: 4 ounces (113g) . Softened is the name of the game.
Butter: 2 tablespoons (30ml) unsalted butter. Also softened.
Fresh Herbs: 1 tablespoon (15ml) each of finely chopped fresh dill and chives.
Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper.

Quality matters, especially with the cucumber. Look for one that's firm and dark green. That's the sign of a good Snack Ideas For Tea Party .

Spicing Things Up (Subtly, Of Course!)

Seasoning is subtle but important. Dill and chives are classic, but don't be afraid to play around.

We're using dill and chives. These give that lovely elegant cucumber sandwich recipe aroma. If you're feeling adventurous, try a tiny pinch of white pepper instead of black.

Or how about a lemon zest to the cucumber sandwich variations ?

Don't have chives? Use green onions. It's not quite the same, but it'll do in a pinch. Honestly, sometimes I just use what I have! It still tastes like Afternoon tea sandwich ideas .

Gear Up! (But Keep It Simple)

You really don't need a ton of fancy kit. I was worried about how to make cucumber sandwiches , but once I started, I realised how little gear it needs.

A mandoline is amazing for super thin slices, but a sharp knife will do.
Cutting board, obvs!
Small bowl for the cream cheese mix.
Rubber spatula or butter knife for spreading.
Paper towels are vital for drying the cucumber. Soggy sandwiches? No, thank you!

No mandoline? Just take your time with the knife. You got this! These Sandwiches For Guests are best when made with love.

Right then, let’s get cracking on the quintessential cucumber sandwich , shall we? A true taste of a summer afternoon tea, perfect with a cuppa and a scone.

Did you know cucumber sandwiches are a staple snack ideas for tea party . And Honestly, who doesn't love sandwiches for guests ?

How to Make Cucumber Sandwiches: A Right Proper Treat

These aren't just any sandwich with cucumber . These are creamy cucumber tea sandwiches , the real deal high tea mini sandwiches .

We are learning how to make cucumber sandwiches like a pro, the quintessential English tea sandwiches recipe , perfect for any afternoon tea sandwich ideas ! Forget those soggy supermarket versions, we're making elegant cucumber sandwich recipes !

Prep Steps: Let's Get Organised!

First, the mise en place . Essential, darling, essential. Thinly slice one English cucumber aim for about 1/16 inch. A mandoline is your best friend here if you have one.

Toss the slices with ½ teaspoon of kosher salt. Pop them in a colander over a bowl and chill for 30 minutes to drain out the excess moisture.

Soften 4 ounces of cream cheese and 2 tablespoons of butter. Chop 1 tablespoon each of fresh dill and chives.

Mix 4 ounces of cream cheese, 2 tablespoons of butter, 1 tablespoon each of dill and chives, and ¼ teaspoon of pepper in a small bowl.

This keeps your area clear. You know.

Assembling Your Masterpiece: step-by-step

Pat the cucumber slices dry seriously, dry . Use paper towels and be thorough.
Spread the cream cheese mixture on one side of 8 slices of white bread.
Arrange an overlapping layer of cucumber on half of the bread.
Top with the remaining bread, cream cheese side down.
Gently press the sandwiches.
Trim the crusts and cut into triangles or fingers.

Pro Tips: Elevate Your Cucumber and cream cheese finger sandwiches

Salting the cucumber is key. This stops the cucumber sandwich variations from getting soggy.
Softened cream cheese is crucial. So, set it out ahead of time.
make-ahead? Wrap tightly and chill, but they are best eaten fresh. The fresher the better.

Recipe Notes for Perfectly Proper Cucumber Sandwiches

Alright, you've got the recipe for how to make cucumber sandwiches . Here are a few extra bits and bobs to ensure success.

Honestly, it's the little things that make these creamy cucumber tea sandwiches truly shine. I remember the first time I made them for my nan, she was so impressed! Felt like I'd won Bake Off!

Serving Suggestions: Make 'em Pretty!

Presentation is key, especially if you're serving these as sandwiches for guests . Think elegant.

Plating and presentation ideas: Cut the high tea mini sandwiches into dainty triangles or slender fingers. Arrange them artfully on a plate. A sprig of dill or a few cucumber sandwich variations for garnish adds a touch of class.
Complementary sides or beverages: These are perfect with a refreshing glass of lemonade or, of course, a pot of Earl Grey. A few Afternoon tea sandwich ideas besides the cucumber ones are egg salad and cress would make your spread a winner.

Storage Tips: Keep 'em Fresh!

Nobody likes a soggy sandwich, do they? The key is keeping everything cool and contained.

Refrigeration guidelines: If you're making these ahead of time, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 2 hours.
Freezing options (if applicable): Honestly, freezing isn't ideal. The cucumber can get a bit weird when thawed. Best to make them fresh.
Reheating instructions: Don't even think about reheating! These are meant to be enjoyed cold.

Variations: Mix It Up!

Want to put your own spin on the classic? Go for it!

Dietary adaptations: For a vegan version, use vegan cream cheese and butter. Easy peasy!
Seasonal ingredient swaps: In the summer, try adding a few fresh basil leaves to the cream cheese spread. A real game changer. For the winter, use roasted garlic instead of fresh herbs.

Nutrition Basics: Goodness Inside and Out

These sandwich with cucumber are light and refreshing. Not exactly a superfood, but still a nice treat!

Simplified nutrition information: Each serving (2 sandwiches) has approximately 250 calories, 6g of protein, 15g of fat, and 22g of carbs.
Key health benefits: The cucumber provides hydration, and the herbs add a little boost of vitamins.

There you have it. Everything you need to know to create Elegant cucumber sandwich recipe . Now go forth and enjoy! These english tea sandwiches recipe for cucumber and cream cheese finger sandwiches are bound to impress.

Don't worry, I'm confident you can achieve an how to make cucumber sandwiches as impressive as what you can get in the Ritz.

You've got this!

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I stop my cucumber sandwiches from going soggy? Nobody wants a soggy bottom, like in the Great British Bake Off!

The secret to avoiding soggy cucumber sandwiches is drawing out the excess moisture from the cucumber. Salting the cucumber slices and letting them drain in a colander for at least 30 minutes is key. Also, patting the cucumber slices dry with paper towels before assembling the sandwiches removes any remaining moisture.

Why is it so important to remove the crusts when you are learning how to make cucumber sandwiches?

Removing the crusts from cucumber sandwiches creates a more delicate and refined eating experience, which is traditional for afternoon tea. Crustless sandwiches are also easier to cut neatly into elegant shapes like triangles or fingers. It's all about presentation, darling!

Can I make cucumber sandwiches ahead of time?

Cucumber sandwiches are best served fresh, but you can prepare them a few hours in advance. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container and refrigerate. Be aware that they may soften slightly over time, so aim to serve them as soon as possible for the best texture.

What's the best kind of bread to use when I want to know how to make cucumber sandwiches?

A good quality white bread with a firm texture is ideal for cucumber sandwiches. Look for a bread that's not too airy or holey, as it needs to hold its shape and not get soggy easily. Some people also love using brioche for added richness, but that does detract from the classic flavors.

What can I add to my cucumber sandwiches to give them a bit of extra "oomph"?

While classic cucumber sandwiches are simple, there are plenty of ways to jazz them up! Try adding a tablespoon of finely chopped fresh mint or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cream cheese mixture for a refreshing or spicy twist.

You could also experiment with different herbs, like parsley or tarragon, to find your perfect flavor combination.