Creamy Cucumber Benedictine Tea Sandwiches

If you’re looking for a bite-sized treat that’s refreshing, light, and totally charming, then you’re going to fall head over heels for these Creamy Cucumber Benedictine Tea Sandwiches. Trust me, these little sandwiches are the kind of thing that make tea time feel extra special. Picture this: crisp, cool cucumber paired with a creamy, tangy spread, all nestled between two soft, delicate slices of bread. It’s the perfect combination of fresh and indulgent.

And you know what? These sandwiches are more than just delicious—they’re the kind of treat that makes any occasion feel like an event. Whether you’re hosting a tea party, enjoying a quiet afternoon, or just craving something light and flavorful, these sandwiches will totally hit the spot. Plus, they’re so easy to make, you’ll wonder why you didn’t try them sooner!

Why You’ll Love Creamy Cucumber Benedictine Tea Sandwiches

This isn’t just another tea sandwich recipe. These Creamy Cucumber Benedictine Tea Sandwiches are all about effortless elegance with a touch of comfort. Here’s why they’re such a favorite:

• Versatile: Whether it’s for a fancy tea party, a light lunch, or just a cozy snack, these sandwiches are perfect for any occasion. They add that touch of sophistication without needing hours in the kitchen.
• Budget-Friendly: You don’t need to break the bank to make these. Simple ingredients like cucumber, cream cheese, and herbs transform into something wonderful. It’s proof that great food doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated.
• Quick and Easy: These sandwiches come together in no time! The preparation is so straightforward, and before you know it, you’ll have a plate full of beautifully delicate bites. It’s perfect for those times when you need something tasty, fast, and impressive.
• Crowd-Pleasing: I can’t stress this enough—everyone will love them! Whether you’re serving kids or adults, these tea sandwiches are a guaranteed hit. They’re just the right balance of refreshing and creamy, making them irresistible.
• Customizable: You can make them your own. Add a dash of lemon zest, swap in different herbs, or even throw in a slice of smoked salmon if you’re feeling fancy. These little sandwiches are as versatile as they are delicious!

Ingredients

Let’s break it down and see what makes these sandwiches so magical. Here’s what you’ll need:

Cucumbers: Thinly sliced and crisp. The cucumbers bring that fresh, cool crunch that’s absolutely perfect in every bite.

Cream Cheese: The creamy base that holds it all together. It makes the filling smooth and indulgent, giving the cucumbers a rich contrast.

Mayonnaise: Adds a bit of extra richness and helps bind everything together for a silky spread.

Fresh Dill or Chives: These herbs bring brightness and freshness to the creamy filling, cutting through the richness with a burst of flavor.

Bread: Soft, white or whole wheat bread is best for these tea sandwiches. You want something that’s tender and delicate but sturdy enough to hold the filling.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Now, let’s dive into the easy steps for making these dreamy sandwiches:

Prepare the Filling:

Start by mixing together your cream cheese, mayonnaise, and a bit of fresh dill or chives. You want to make sure it’s smooth and creamy, with just enough of those herbs to add that wonderful, fresh flavor. Don’t rush this step—it’s what makes the sandwiches taste so luxurious!

Slice the Cucumbers:

Slice your cucumbers into thin, even rounds. The thinner, the better! The goal is to get those refreshing, crunchy bites without overwhelming the sandwich. Pat them dry with a paper towel to get rid of any excess moisture, so they don’t sog up the bread.

Assemble the Sandwiches:

Lay out your slices of bread (trim off the crusts if you want a classic tea sandwich look). Spread a generous layer of the cream cheese mixture on one slice of bread. Then, top it with the cucumber slices, arranging them in a pretty, even layer. Top with the second slice of bread, and gently press down to ensure everything sticks together.

Slice and Serve:

Now for the fun part—slice your sandwiches into small triangles or fingers. You’ll want them to be bite-sized, perfect for popping into your mouth. Arrange them on a pretty platter, and maybe garnish with a little extra sprinkle of fresh herbs for that final touch.

Serve and Enjoy:

Serve these sandwiches chilled or at room temperature, and watch them disappear as soon as they hit the table!

How to Serve Creamy Cucumber Benedictine Tea Sandwiches

These little beauties are just perfect on their own, but they also pair wonderfully with some simple sides to complete your meal. Here are a few ideas to elevate your tea-time experience:

• Tea: Of course, a cup of freshly brewed tea is a must! Go for something light and fragrant, like Earl Grey or chamomile, to complement the freshness of the cucumbers.
• Fruit: A side of fresh fruit, like grapes, strawberries, or melon, brings some natural sweetness to balance the savory richness of the sandwiches.
• Simple Salad: A fresh, crisp salad with a lemony vinaigrette would add a refreshing contrast to the creamy texture of the sandwiches.
• Crusty Bread: If you want to serve a little extra, some crusty bread or crackers would make a perfect accompaniment.

Additional Tips

• Prep Ahead: You can easily make the cream cheese filling ahead of time and store it in the fridge. This gives the flavors a chance to meld, and makes assembling the sandwiches even quicker when you’re ready to serve.
• Spice It Up: If you want to take these sandwiches up a notch, add a dash of lemon zest or a sprinkle of smoked paprika to the filling. It’ll add a fun little twist without overpowering the freshness of the cucumber.
• Make it Gluten-Free: If you’re catering to gluten-free guests, just use your favorite gluten-free bread. These sandwiches are versatile and can easily be adapted to suit dietary needs.
• Storage Tips: Leftover sandwiches can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just be sure to eat them soon, as the bread can get a little soggy after a while.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I make these sandwiches ahead of time?
A1: Absolutely! You can make the cream cheese mixture and slice the cucumbers the night before. Just assemble the sandwiches right before serving to keep the bread fresh.

Q2: How do I store leftovers?
A2: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. They’re best eaten fresh, but you can still enjoy them the next day.

Q3: Can I freeze these sandwiches?
A3: Unfortunately, these are best enjoyed fresh. Freezing may make the bread soggy, so it’s best to assemble them right before serving.

Q4: Can I make these sandwiches vegan?
A4: Yes! Simply swap out the cream cheese and mayonnaise for your favorite plant-based alternatives. You can find great dairy-free versions that will work just as well.

Q5: What bread is best for these sandwiches?
A5: Soft, white, or whole wheat bread is the best choice. It’s tender enough to work with the creamy filling but sturdy enough to hold the cucumber slices.

Conclusion

These Creamy Cucumber Benedictine Tea Sandwiches are the perfect bite-sized treat that will make you feel like you’re at a fancy afternoon tea, even if you’re just enjoying them in the comfort of your own home. They’re light, refreshing, and oh-so-creamy, making them the ideal snack or appetizer for any occasion. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to treat yourself (and everyone else) to something absolutely delightful!

Print