Name: Easy Cucumber Tea Sandwiches
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: British
Ingredients: 1 English cucumber, thinly sliced; 8 slices soft white or whole wheat sandwich bread, crusts removed; 4 oz cream cheese, softened; 2 tablespoons mayonnaise; 1 tablespoon fresh dill, finely chopped (optional); 1 teaspoon lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste; Softened butter (optional, for spreading)

Delicate, cool, and irresistibly creamy, these easy cucumber tea sandwiches are a charming addition to any tea party, picnic, or light lunch spread. I love how simple they are to make—no cooking required, just a handful of fresh ingredients that come together in minutes. The crisp cucumber slices paired with tangy cream cheese and soft bread create an elegant bite that’s as satisfying as it is refreshing.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I find these cucumber tea sandwiches perfect for when I want something light, quick, and classy. They come together in just 15 minutes, making them ideal for spontaneous get-togethers or when I need a no-fuss appetizer. Whether I’m hosting a garden brunch or packing a picnic, their fresh, herby flavor always pleases. The optional dill adds a bright note, and they can be easily adapted to suit different tastes or dietary needs.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 English cucumber, thinly sliced

8 slices soft white or whole wheat sandwich bread, crusts removed

4 oz cream cheese, softened

2 tablespoons mayonnaise

1 tablespoon fresh dill, finely chopped (optional)

1 teaspoon lemon juice

Salt and pepper to taste

Softened butter (optional, for spreading)

Directions

In a small bowl, I mix the cream cheese, mayonnaise, lemon juice, dill (if using), salt, and pepper until smooth and spreadable.

If I want an extra layer of moisture protection, I lightly butter one side of each bread slice.

I spread a generous layer of the cream cheese mixture on each slice of bread.

Then, I evenly layer thin cucumber slices over half of the bread slices.

I top each with another slice of bread, cream cheese side down, to form sandwiches.

I gently press them together and trim off any crusts if I haven’t already.

Finally, I cut each sandwich into quarters—either diagonally or into rectangles, depending on the occasion.

These can be served immediately, or I cover them with a damp paper towel and chill until it’s time to serve.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 0 minutes

Total Time: 15 minutes

Calories per serving: Approximately 120 kcal

Variations

I sometimes swap the white bread for whole wheat or pumpernickel for a heartier texture.

For a herby twist, I like to mix in chopped chives, parsley, or mint with the cream cheese.

If I want a little kick, I add a dash of horseradish or a pinch of garlic powder.

I’ve also made vegan versions using dairy-free cream cheese and plant-based mayo with great results.

Adding thinly sliced radishes or smoked salmon creates a more gourmet feel.

Storage/Reheating

These sandwiches are best enjoyed fresh, but if I need to make them ahead, I store them in an airtight container lined with a damp paper towel to keep the bread from drying out. I refrigerate them for up to 24 hours. I don’t recommend reheating, as these are meant to be served cold or at room temperature.

Related Recipes:

Cucumber Salad

FAQs

How far in advance can I make cucumber tea sandwiches?

I like to make them no more than 24 hours ahead. I keep them covered with a damp paper towel in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain freshness.

Can I use regular cucumbers instead of English cucumbers?

Yes, I can, but I make sure to peel them and remove the seeds, as regular cucumbers tend to have more moisture and thicker skin.

What’s the best bread for cucumber tea sandwiches?

I prefer soft white or whole wheat sandwich bread with the crusts removed. The key is to use fresh, soft bread that won’t overpower the delicate filling.

Can I freeze these sandwiches?

I don’t recommend freezing them. The texture of the cucumbers and cream cheese changes too much after thawing, resulting in a soggy sandwich.

How do I keep the sandwiches from getting soggy?

Spreading a thin layer of softened butter on the bread before the filling helps create a moisture barrier. Also, I avoid overloading the cucumbers and serve them soon after making.

Conclusion

These easy cucumber tea sandwiches are one of my go-to recipes for when I want something elegant and simple. I love how quickly they come together and how versatile they are for different occasions. Whether I’m serving them at a tea party, a bridal shower, or just enjoying a quiet afternoon snack, they never fail to impress with their classic charm and refreshing flavor.

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