How to Make a Traditional Cucumber Sandwich (High Tea Classic)

The cucumber sandwich is a timeless staple of British high tea, embodying elegance in its simplicity.

With its crisp cucumber slices, creamy spread, and soft white bread, this delicate sandwich is perfect for afternoon tea, garden parties, or a light lunch.

Also Check: English Muffin Breakfast Sandwich

In this article, we’ll guide you through crafting an authentic cucumber sandwich, complete with tips to elevate its flavor and presentation while staying true to its traditional roots.

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A Brief History of the Cucumber Sandwich

Cucumber sandwiches have long been associated with British high society, particularly the Victorian era, when afternoon tea became a fashionable ritual.

Their refreshing taste and minimal ingredients made them a go-to for elegant gatherings.

Often served crustless and cut into dainty shapes, these sandwiches are a symbol of refinement, yet they’re incredibly easy to prepare at home.

Ingredients

To make a classic cucumber sandwich for 4 servings (about 8–12 small sandwiches), you’ll need:

• 1 large cucumber: English cucumbers are ideal for their thin skin and minimal seeds.

• 8 slices of soft white bread: Choose a high-quality, fresh loaf with a tender crumb.

• 4 oz (115g) cream cheese, softened: Full-fat works best for richness.

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened: Adds a subtle richness to the spread.

• 1 tbsp fresh dill, finely chopped: For a herbaceous note (optional but traditional).

• 1 tbsp fresh chives, finely chopped: Adds a mild oniony flavor (optional).

• 1 tsp lemon juice: Brightens the spread.

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper: To taste, for seasoning the cucumber.

• Optional: A pinch of garlic powder or a dash of white pepper for extra depth.

Equipment

• Sharp knife or mandoline for thin cucumber slices

• Mixing bowl and spatula

• Butter knife or offset spatula for spreading

• Serrated knife for trimming crusts

• Paper towels for draining cucumbers

Instructions

Follow these steps to create perfect cucumber sandwiches:

Prepare the Cucumber

• • Peel the cucumber if using a variety with thick skin (English cucumbers can be left unpeeled).

  • Slice the cucumber into very thin rounds, about 1/16 inch (1–2 mm) thick, using a sharp knife or mandoline for consistency.

  • Place the slices in a colander, sprinkle lightly with salt, and let them sit for 10–15 minutes to release excess water. This prevents soggy sandwiches.

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    Pat the slices dry with paper towels.

Make the Spread

• • In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, butter, lemon juice, dill, and chives.

  • Mix until smooth and well-blended. Add a pinch of salt, a dash of black pepper, and optional garlic powder for extra flavor.

  • Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. The spread should be creamy and flavorful but not overpowering.

Assemble the Sandwiches

• • Lay out the bread slices on a clean surface.

  • Spread a thin, even layer of the cream cheese mixture on one side of each slice.

  • Arrange a single layer of cucumber slices on half of the bread slices, slightly overlapping if needed. Lightly sprinkle with a pinch of salt and pepper.

  • Top with the remaining bread slices, cream cheese side down, to form sandwiches.

Trim and Cut

1. • Use a serrated knife to trim off the crusts for a classic presentation.

   • Cut each sandwich into smaller shapes—triangles, rectangles, or squares are traditional for high tea. For 8 slices of bread, aim for 8–12 small sandwiches, depending on your preferred size.

2. Serve

   • Arrange the sandwiches on a tiered stand or platter for a high tea aesthetic.

   • Garnish with a sprig of dill or a sprinkle of chives for a pop of color.

   • Serve immediately or cover with a damp paper towel and plastic wrap to keep fresh for up to an hour before serving.

Read More: Easy Brunswick Stew Recipe

Tips for the Perfect Cucumber Sandwich

Keep it Fresh: Cucumbers release water quickly, so assemble the sandwiches as close to serving time as possible. Salting and draining the cucumbers is key to avoiding sogginess.

Bread Matters: Use fresh, soft white bread without a heavy crust. Avoid overly dense or artisanal breads, as they can overwhelm the delicate flavors.

Flavor Variations: For a modern twist, try adding a pinch of smoked paprika or a thin layer of mashed avocado to the spread. For authenticity, stick to the classic dill and chive combination.

Presentation: For an elegant touch, use a cookie cutter to create round sandwiches or experiment with other shapes for a playful high tea spread.

Make Ahead: You can prepare the spread and slice the cucumbers a few hours in advance. Store the cucumbers in an airtight container with paper towels to absorb moisture, and assemble just before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Cucumber sandwiches are best enjoyed as part of a high tea spread alongside other classics like scones with clotted cream, petit fours, or smoked salmon sandwiches.

Pair them with a pot of Earl Grey or Darjeeling tea for an authentic experience.

For a lighter option, serve with a chilled glass of sparkling water infused with lemon or cucumber.

Nutritional Information (Per Sandwich, Approx.)

• Calories: 100–120 kcal (based on 12 small sandwiches)

• Fat: 6g

• Carbohydrates: 10g

• Protein: 2g
  Note: Values vary based on bread and spread quantities.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The cucumber sandwich is the epitome of understated elegance—light, refreshing, and effortlessly chic.

Its minimal ingredients allow the crisp cucumber and creamy spread to shine, making it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.

Whether you’re hosting a formal tea party or craving a quick, sophisticated snack, this high tea classic is sure to impress.

Try this recipe and bring a touch of British tradition to your table. Have your own tips or variations for cucumber sandwiches? Share them in the comments below, and let’s keep the high tea conversation going.

How to Make a Traditional Cucumber Sandwich

The article provides a detailed guide to making traditional cucumber sandwiches, a classic British high tea staple, with simple ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and tips for perfect presentation and flavor.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr

Servings: 5

Course: Appetizer, Snack

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 large cucumber: English cucumbers are ideal for their thin skin and minimal seeds.
• 8 slices of soft white bread: Choose a high-quality fresh loaf with a tender crumb.
• 4 oz 115g cream cheese, softened: Full-fat works best for richness.
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter softened: Adds a subtle richness to the spread.
• 1 tbsp fresh dill finely chopped: For a herbaceous note (optional but traditional).
• 1 tbsp fresh chives finely chopped: Adds a mild oniony flavor (optional).
• 1 tsp lemon juice: Brightens the spread.
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper: To taste for seasoning the cucumber.
• Optional: A pinch of garlic powder or a dash of white pepper for extra depth.

Method

 

1. Prep the Cucumber: Peel (if needed) and thinly slice 1 large cucumber (1/16 inch thick). Sprinkle with salt, let sit for 10–15 minutes in a colander, then pat dry with paper towels.
2. Mix the Spread: In a bowl, combine 4 oz softened cream cheese, 2 tbsp softened butter, 1 tbsp chopped dill, 1 tbsp chopped chives, 1 tsp lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until smooth.
3. Spread on Bread: Spread a thin layer of the cream cheese mixture on one side of 8 slices of soft white bread.
4. Add Cucumbers: Place a single layer of cucumber slices on 4 of the bread slices. Sprinkle lightly with salt and pepper.
5. Assemble Sandwiches: Top the cucumber-covered slices with the remaining 4 bread slices, cream cheese side down, to form sandwiches.
6. Trim and Cut: Use a serrated knife to cut off the crusts, then slice each sandwich into 2–3 small pieces (triangles, rectangles, or squares).
7. Serve: Arrange on a platter and serve immediately, or cover with a damp paper towel and plastic wrap to keep fresh for up to an hour.

Notes

• Keep it Fresh: Cucumbers release water quickly, so assemble the sandwiches as close to serving time as possible. Salting and draining the cucumbers is key to avoiding sogginess.
• Bread Matters: Use fresh, soft white bread without a heavy crust. Avoid overly dense or artisanal breads, as they can overwhelm the delicate flavors.
• Flavor Variations: For a modern twist, try adding a pinch of smoked paprika or a thin layer of mashed avocado to the spread. For authenticity, stick to the classic dill and chive combination.
• Presentation: For an elegant touch, use a cookie cutter to create round sandwiches or experiment with other shapes for a playful high tea spread.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the spread and slice the cucumbers a few hours in advance. Store the cucumbers in an airtight container with paper towels to absorb moisture, and assemble just before serving.