Light, Elegant, and Perfectly Refreshing
These pretty little cucumber sandwiches are the kind of finger food that makes any occasion feel a little more special. With soft herbed cream cheese and thin, crisp cucumbers layered on delicate bread, they’re elegant, easy, and always a crowd-pleaser.
- Classic choice for brunch, showers, tea parties, or movie nights
- Easy to make, with just a handful of ingredients
- Refreshing, light, and vegetarian-friendly
- Can be made ahead (but best served fresh!)
- Beautiful presentation with minimal effort
Hosting a gathering? These pair beautifully with Make-Ahead Quiches or Mini Fruit and Yogurt Parfaits for a full tea-inspired spread.
Cucumber Tea Sandwiches
Herbed cream cheese is layered with thinly sliced cucumbers in these beautiful little sandwiches that are perfect for any special occasion, including Easter and Mother's Day.
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Servings: 16 servings
Calories: 208kcal
Ingredients
- 1 loaf thinly sliced sandwich bread about 16 slices
- 1 English cucumber
- 8 ounces cream cheese softened
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 3 tablespoons minced fresh herbs dill, chives, parsley, etc.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Thinly slice the cucumber using a mandolin or very sharp knife. Place the slices on a paper towel lined baking sheet and pat dry with additional paper towels.
- In a medium bowl, combine the cream cheese, mayonnaise, herbs, lemon juice, garlic powder, and salt and pepper, to taste.
- Spread 1-2 tablespoons of the cream cheese mixture over 16 slices of bread. Layer the cucumber slices over half of the bread slices, then top with the remaining bread slices, cream cheese side down.
- With a serrated knife, cut the sandwiches into quarters. Cover and refrigerate until serving.
Nutrition
Serving: 1g | Calories: 208kcal | Carbohydrates: 25g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 10g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 5g | Cholesterol: 16mg | Sodium: 323mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 3g
Keep scrolling for tips, ingredient substitutions, answers to frequently asked questions and more!
Recipe Tips
- Pat the cucumber slices dry before assembling to avoid soggy bread.
- Use a serrated knife for clean cuts—especially when trimming into dainty squares or triangles. If you have one, a mandolin slicer can make quick work and give really accurate cuts. Just watch those fingers!
- Chill before serving for the best texture and flavor.
- Cut off crusts for a more traditional tea sandwich look (and a tidier bite).
Make Ahead & Storage
These are best the day they’re made, but here’s how to prep in advance if needed:
- Add fresh garnishes (if using) right before serving.
- Up to 1 day ahead: Assemble the sandwiches, cover with plastic wrap, and store in an airtight container in the fridge.
- To prevent dryness, place a damp paper towel over the sandwiches before sealing the container.
Easy Variations to Try
Feel like customizing? Here are a few elegant twists:
- Swap the herbs for basil and mint for a summery vibe
- Add thinly sliced radishes or smoked salmon for extra flair
- Use whole wheat or pumpernickel bread for color and flavor contrast
- Cut sandwiches into circles using a biscuit cutter for an afternoon tea look
Be sure to save this recipe to your favorite Pinterest board for later.
