Cucumber Herbed Cream Cheese

There's something wonderfully refined about cucumber tea sandwiches, a timeless classic that graces afternoon tea tables with elegance and simplicity. These delicate finger sandwiches combine crisp, refreshing cucumber slices with a luxuriously herbed cream cheese spread, all nestled between soft white bread. Perfect for bridal showers, garden parties, or any gathering where you want to add a touch of sophistication, these sandwiches are as beautiful as they are delicious. The combination of fresh dill, chives, and parsley creates a vibrant flavor profile that transforms simple ingredients into something truly special.

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The beauty of these cucumber tea sandwiches lies in their simplicity and the quality of fresh ingredients. The herbed cream cheese spread is the star, bringing together softened cream cheese with a medley of fresh herbs that complement the cool, crisp cucumber perfectly. A hint of lemon juice brightens the flavors, while garlic powder adds depth without overwhelming the delicate balance. Whether you're hosting an elegant afternoon tea or looking for a light appetizer for your next brunch, these sandwiches deliver both visual appeal and satisfying flavor in every bite.

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

For the best results, ensure your cream cheese is fully softened at room temperature before mixing, as this makes it much easier to blend with the herbs and creates a smoother spread. When slicing the cucumber, aim for uniform thin slices using a sharp knife or mandoline for consistent texture throughout your sandwiches. The optional butter layer acts as a moisture barrier between the bread and filling, keeping your sandwiches fresh longer if you're making them ahead. If preparing in advance, keep the sandwiches covered with a slightly damp paper towel and plastic wrap in the refrigerator to maintain freshness for up to 4 hours before serving.

Varianten und Anpassungen

While the classic version is delightful, these tea sandwiches are wonderfully adaptable. For added flavor, sprinkle cracked black pepper over the cucumber before closing the sandwiches. Swap soft white bread for whole wheat or multigrain varieties to add texture and nutritional value. For a vegan version, simply use plant-based cream cheese and butter alternatives. You can also experiment with different herb combinations such as adding mint for a refreshing twist or tarragon for a French-inspired flavor. Some variations include adding thinly sliced radishes alongside the cucumber for extra crunch and a peppery note.

Serviervorschläge

Arrange these elegant sandwiches on a tiered serving platter for traditional afternoon tea service, or display them on a decorative platter garnished with fresh herb sprigs and edible flowers for garden parties. They pair beautifully with other tea sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam, and petit fours for a complete tea service. For beverages, serve alongside Earl Grey, chamomile, or mint tea, or offer sparkling water with lemon for a refreshing non-caffeinated option. These sandwiches also make excellent additions to brunch spreads, baby showers, or as a light lunch option accompanied by a fresh green salad.

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These cucumber tea sandwiches with herbed cream cheese are proof that elegance doesn't require complexity. With just a handful of fresh ingredients and minimal preparation time, you can create a sophisticated appetizer that looks and tastes like it came from a professional caterer. The combination of cool cucumber, creamy herbed spread, and soft bread creates a perfect harmony of flavors and textures that appeals to guests of all ages. Whether you're hosting a formal afternoon tea or simply looking for a refined snack, these timeless sandwiches bring a touch of grace to any occasion. Enjoy them fresh for the best taste and texture, and savor the classic English tradition that has delighted tea lovers for generations.

Recipe FAQs

→ How do I prevent the bread from becoming soggy?

Lightly spreading softened butter on the bread before adding the cream cheese layer creates a moisture barrier, keeping the bread crisp.

→ Can other herbs be used in the cream cheese spread?

Yes, fresh herbs like basil, tarragon, or mint can be substituted or combined to vary the flavor profile.

→ What type of cucumber is best for slicing?

English cucumbers work best for thin, uniform slices without large seeds, offering a crisp texture.

→ Is it possible to use whole wheat or multigrain bread?

Absolutely. Using whole wheat or multigrain bread adds texture and a nutty flavor to complement the cream cheese and cucumber.

→ How can these sandwiches be adapted for a vegan diet?

Replace the cream cheese and butter with plant-based alternatives to create a vegan-friendly version.