These sandwiches have a special place in my heart and kitchen. I remember first tasting them at my grandmother’s house during a summer afternoon tea party.
The combination of crisp cucumbers, creamy cheese, and a hint of fresh dill instantly became my favorite. What sets these sandwiches apart is their perfect balance of creamy and crunchy, with a hint of fresh dill and lemon zest that elevates the flavor profile.
Inspired by traditional English tea sandwiches, this version has received rave reviews from all who’ve tried it.
Ingredients
Cucumbers: The star of the show. Use English cucumbers for their thin skin and fewer seeds.
Cream Cheese: Full-fat cream cheese provides the best texture and flavor.
Fresh Dill: Adds a refreshing herbal note that complements the cucumbers.
Lemon Zest: Brings a zesty brightness to the creamy spread.
White Bread: Traditional white sandwich bread works best, though you can substitute it with whole wheat or gluten-free options.
Butter: Unsalted butter creates a barrier to prevent the bread from getting soggy.
How To Make Cucumber and Cream Cheese Sandwiches
Preheat and Prep
This makes mixing easier and ensures a smoother spread.
- Prep the Cucumbers: Slice the cucumbers thinly using a mandoline or a sharp knife. Lay the slices on a paper towel and sprinkle lightly with salt. This helps draw out excess moisture, keeping your sandwiches crisp.
- Prepare the Bread: Lightly butter one side of each slice of bread. This step is crucial to prevent the bread from becoming soggy.
- Make the Cream Cheese Spread: In a medium bowl, combine the cream cheese, fresh dill, and lemon zest. Mix until well combined. If you like a bit of a kick, you can also add a pinch of black pepper or a dash of hot sauce.
- Spread the Cream Cheese Mixture: Generously spread the cream cheese mixture on the buttered side of each slice of bread.
- Layer the Cucumbers: Place a layer of cucumber slices over the cream cheese on half of the bread slices. Ensure the cucumber slices overlap slightly for full coverage.
- Top and Trim: Top with the remaining slices of bread, cream cheese side down. Trim the crusts off each sandwich to give them a neat, classic appearance.
- Chill the Sandwiches (Optional) : For best results, wrap the sandwiches in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld together and makes the sandwiches easier to cut.
- Cut into Desired Shapes: Traditional tea sandwiches are often cut into fingers, triangles, or small squares. Use a sharp knife to ensure clean edges.
- Serve and Enjoy: Arrange the sandwiches on a platter and serve immediately. They pair beautifully with a cup of tea or a glass of chilled lemonade.
Success Tips
Chilling the sandwiches is key. It not only helps the flavors to meld but also makes the sandwiches easier to handle and cut. Skipping this step can result in messy sandwiches.
Bread: While white bread is traditional, whole wheat or gluten-free bread can be used for dietary preferences.
Herbs: Fresh dill is preferred, but you can experiment with other herbs like chives or parsley for a different flavor profile.
Tip 3: Troubleshooting Common Issues
Soggy Bread: Ensure cucumbers are patted dry and the bread is buttered to prevent sogginess.
Cream Cheese Too Stiff: If the cream cheese is too stiff to spread, let it sit at room temperature for a bit longer or microwave it for a few seconds.
Tools I Recommend for This Recipe
- Mandoline Slicer: For evenly thin cucumber slices.
- Sharp Knife: Essential for cutting sandwiches cleanly.
- Mixing Bowl and Spatula: For mixing the cream cheese spread.
Can I Freeze These Sandwiches?
While these sandwiches are best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze them if needed.
- To Freeze: Wrap the assembled sandwiches tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
- To Reheat: Thaw the sandwiches in the refrigerator overnight or overnight. Enjoy them chilled or let them sit at room temperature for a bit before serving.
FAQ
Q: Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
A: Yes, you can use low-fat cream cheese, but the texture will be less rich and creamy.
Q: Can I add other vegetables?
A: Certainly! Thinly sliced radishes or carrots can add extra crunch and flavor.
Q: How long can these sandwiches be stored?
A: They are best eaten the same day, but you can store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
Enjoy making and savoring these delightful cucumber and cream cheese sandwiches. They are sure to be a hit at any gathering!