There’s something undeniably charming about cucumber sandwiches. They’re crisp, cool, and oh-so-refreshing—like the little black dress of tea party fare. Whether you’re planning a garden brunch, packing a cute lunch, or just in the mood for something light yet satisfying, this recipe brings that perfect blend of simplicity and elegance. And trust me, once you’ve had one bite of these creamy, crunchy delights, you’ll wonder why you haven’t been making them all along. This one’s a game-changer, friend.
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So grab your favorite bread, fluff up your pillows, and let’s make something that feels like a tiny afternoon escape.
Why You’ll Love Cucumber Sandwiches
This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:
Versatile: Perfect for busy weekdays, bridal showers, or as a light lunch treat. Imagine a sunny afternoon, a chilled drink in hand, and these sandwiches on your plate. Pure bliss.
Budget-Friendly: You probably have everything you need in your kitchen already—no fancy ingredients, just classic components done right.
Quick and Easy: These sandwiches come together in minutes. Seriously, if you can spread and slice, you’re golden.
Customizable: Prefer a bit of tang? Add some lemon zest or swap in flavored cream cheese. Want it heartier? Layer in smoked salmon or turkey.
Crowd-Pleasing: Delicate enough for afternoon tea, filling enough for lunch, and always a hit with adults and kids alike.
Ingredients in Cucumber Sandwiches
Here’s the charm of this recipe—it’s built on just a few humble ingredients, but together they create a cool, creamy bite that’s totally irresistible:
Cucumbers: Crisp, cool, and oh-so-refreshing. English cucumbers are ideal because they’re seedless and less watery, which keeps your sandwiches from getting soggy.
Cream Cheese: Smooth and tangy, it creates the perfect spreadable base. You can go with plain or dress it up with herbs or garlic.
Fresh Dill: This herb adds a light, herby freshness that pairs beautifully with cucumber. Think spa day in sandwich form.
Bread: Soft white bread is traditional (and pillowy perfection), but feel free to use whole wheat, sourdough, or gluten-free if that’s your thing.
Salt & Pepper: Just a touch brings out the flavor of the cucumber and balances the richness of the cream cheese.
(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions
Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:
Prep the Cucumbers: Start by thinly slicing your cucumbers. If they’re particularly juicy, sprinkle them with a pinch of salt and let them sit for a few minutes, then pat dry with a paper towel. This keeps your sandwiches from turning soggy.
Mix the Spread: In a small bowl, combine your cream cheese, dill, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and fluffy. This step adds flavor and helps the spread glide easily across the bread.
Prepare the Bread: Lay out your slices of bread and lightly spread each one with the cream cheese mixture. Make sure to go edge to edge—no flavor left behind!
Assemble the Sandwiches: Layer the cucumber slices evenly over half the bread slices, then top with the other half to form sandwiches. Press gently.
Trim and Cut: If you’re going for classic tea sandwich vibes, trim the crusts and cut into triangles or fingers. Presentation = elevated.
Serve and Enjoy: Plate them up and enjoy right away, or store covered in the fridge until ready to serve. They’re best eaten fresh!
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 180
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
How to Serve Cucumber Sandwiches
These sandwiches may be small, but they know how to shine. Here’s how to level up your presentation:
Fresh Salads: Serve with a side of leafy greens tossed in a lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing, balanced lunch.
Tea Time Essentials: Add to a platter with scones, jam, and little pastries for an elegant afternoon spread.
Picnic Style: Pair with fresh fruit and iced tea for an effortless, picnic-perfect combo.
As a Light Appetizer: Stack them on a tiered tray with olives and cheese cubes for a party-friendly finger food option.
Simple and Solo: Just pop them on a plate with a pickle or two and call it your new favorite midday snack.
Additional Tips
Prep Ahead: Make the cream cheese spread a day in advance for even more flavor (and convenience).
Chill Before Serving: Pop your sandwiches in the fridge for 30 minutes before serving—they’re extra refreshing when cold.
Go Fancy: Use a cookie cutter to make fun shapes—kids love it, and adults secretly do too.
Diet-Friendly Swaps: Use dairy-free cream cheese or gluten-free bread if needed—these sandwiches are happy to adapt.
Storage Tips: Best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 1 day. Line with paper towels to absorb any extra moisture.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I make these sandwiches ahead of time?
A1: Yes, you can prepare them a few hours in advance. Just keep them wrapped and chilled until serving to maintain freshness.
Q2: Can I use flavored cream cheese?
A2: Absolutely! Garlic herb, chive, or even garden veggie flavors are delicious here.
Q3: What kind of bread works best?
A3: Soft, thin-sliced white or whole wheat bread is classic, but rye, pumpernickel, or even wraps can be used if you’re feeling adventurous.
Q4: How do I keep the bread from getting soggy?
A4: Lightly salt and blot the cucumbers, and make sure your spread covers the entire slice of bread to act as a moisture barrier.
Q5: Can I make this recipe vegan?
A5: Definitely! Swap the cream cheese with your favorite dairy-free version.
Q6: What’s the best way to cut them?
A6: Trim off the crusts and cut into triangles, rectangles, or even use cookie cutters for fun shapes.
Q7: Can I add protein to make them more filling?
A7: Yes—thin slices of smoked salmon, turkey, or ham all work beautifully.
Q8: Are these freezer-friendly?
A8: Not recommended. The cucumbers can become mushy when thawed, which affects the texture.
Q9: Can I use other herbs besides dill?
A9: Absolutely! Try parsley, basil, or chives depending on your flavor preference.
Q10: What’s the best occasion for these sandwiches?
A10: Afternoon tea, baby showers, brunch, picnics, or just a cozy solo lunch—they’re welcome at any table!
Conclusion
Cucumber sandwiches might be simple, but they’re packed with charm and freshness. Whether you’re channeling your inner tea party hostess or just craving something crisp and creamy, this recipe is the perfect go-to. Easy to make, easy to love—this little sandwich brings a whole lot of joy to the table. Go on, make a batch… you deserve it.
Print
Cucumber Sandwiches
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 32 tea sandwiches
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
These refreshing Cucumber Sandwiches are perfect for any gathering, from tea parties to baby showers or bridal showers. Made with fresh cucumber, creamy herbed spread, and soft sandwich bread, these sandwiches are a delightful appetizer and a simple high-protein meal option. A great way to add a healthy touch to your menu. Perfect for quick and easy dinner recipes or snacks!
Ingredients
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16 slices high-quality soft white sandwich bread (about 1 loaf), crusts removed
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1 English cucumber
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8 ounces cream cheese, softened
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1/4 cup mayonnaise
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1 tablespoon minced fresh dill
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1 tablespoon minced fresh chives
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1 tablespoon lemon juice
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1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
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1/4 teaspoon coarse salt
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Cracked black pepper, to taste
Instructions
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Remove the crusts from the sandwich bread and set aside.
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Peel the cucumber in stripes, then slice it into 1/8-inch rounds using a mandolin or a sharp knife.
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Place the cucumber slices on paper towels and sprinkle with coarse salt. Let sit for 15-30 minutes to extract moisture, then pat dry with clean paper towels.
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In a medium bowl, blend together the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, minced dill, minced chives, lemon juice, garlic powder, and coarse salt using a handheld mixer.
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Spread the herbed cream cheese mixture onto one side of each slice of bread.
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Layer cucumber slices over half of the bread slices. Season with cracked black pepper.
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Top with the remaining bread slices, cream cheese side down.
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Using a sharp knife, cut each sandwich into quarters to create 32 tea sandwiches.
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Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
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You can use a mandolin slicer for uniform cucumber slices, but a sharp knife works just as well.
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These sandwiches are best served immediately but can be refrigerated for a couple of hours before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich (out of 32)
- Calories: 40
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 10mg