Light, refreshing and wonderfully simple, cucumber sandwiches are a timeless favourite for afternoon tea, garden parties, or any occasion when a touch of elegance is required.
A classic staple of afternoon tea
Cucumber sandwiches have long been associated with British afternoon tea thanks to their delicate flavour and refined presentation. Traditionally served in neat triangles or fingers, cucumber sandwiches bring a cooling freshness to any sandwich selection and remain a popular choice for events, picnics, or light lunches.
What you need to get started
To make the perfect cucumber sandwich, you need a few key ingredients. Start with an English cucumber, thinly sliced and lightly salted to remove excess moisture. For the filling, blend softened cream cheese with a dash of mayonnaise and a sprinkling of fresh herbs such as dill or chives. Choose soft white or brown bread and spread each slice with a thin layer of butter to prevent sogginess. Optional extras, such as microgreens or edible flowers, can be added for a more decorative finish.
Step-by-step guide to assembling the perfect sandwich
Once your ingredients are prepped, lightly butter each slice of bread to create a barrier against moisture. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly and layer the drained cucumber slices, adding a pinch of salt and pepper if desired. Top with a second slice of bread, trim the crusts, and cut into elegant fingers or triangles.
Serving suggestions and variations
These sandwiches are best served fresh as part of an afternoon tea spread, ideally alongside scones and a pot of loose-leaf tea. They also make a charming addition to afternoon tea boxes from companies such as https://www.afternoonteabox.com, which are growing in popularity for at-home celebrations or as thoughtful gifts. You can personalise the sandwiches by using different herbs, adding radish for a peppery kick, or topping with edible flowers.
For those curious about why afternoon tea remains a British tradition, The Ritz offers a fascinating look at how this custom came to be.
Simple, elegant, and full of flavour, cucumber sandwiches are a timeless tea time favourite.
