Cucumber Cream Cheese Sandwiches

Category: Crowd-Pleasing Starters and Party Snacks

These cucumber cream cheese sandwiches are perfect for tea parties, brunch, or light snacks. Soft white bread is layered with a smooth spread of cream cheese, dill, and a hint of lemon, then topped with crisp cucumber slices. Delicate and refreshing, they're easy to assemble and look beautiful cut into quarters. Chill before serving for best flavor and presentation. Great for gatherings where an elegant, bite-sized option is needed—everyone enjoys their cool crunch and savory freshness!

Loura is a chef and she is standing in front of a table full of fruits and vegetables.
Updated on Fri, 20 Jun 2025 09:26:49 GMT
A stack of sandwiches with cucumber slices on top. Save
A stack of sandwiches with cucumber slices on top. | recipesfoodyummy.com

Cucumber sandwiches bring elegance and freshness to any tea party brunch or afternoon snack platter. This classic recipe delivers delicate flavors with just a few ingredients and is always a crowd-pleaser at gatherings or quiet weekends at home.

I started making these for my grandmother’s garden parties and now I keep the ingredients on hand whenever my friends drop by unexpectedly. They always disappear from the plate first.

Ingredients

  • English cucumber: Brings a tender crunch and mild flavor. Look for one with shiny even skin for best texture. If it feels heavy for its size that means it is juicy
  • White sandwich bread: Keeps the texture soft and the flavor neutral so the fillings shine. Choose a loaf that is fresh and springy to the touch. Removing the crusts makes them extra dainty
  • Cream cheese: Softened for easy spreading and luscious texture. Full-fat gives you the richest flavor but reduced-fat also works
  • Mayonnaise: Optional for extra creaminess. Go for a good quality mayo with a clean flavor
  • Fresh dill: Adds brightness and herbal notes. Fresh gives you the most aroma but dried can be used in a pinch
  • Salt and pepper: Enhances all the flavors and keeps it from tasting flat. Freshly cracked pepper adds a subtle heat
  • Lemon juice: Optional for a tiny zing that lifts the taste. Use fresh if you can

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Spread:
Mix the softened cream cheese with mayonnaise dill salt pepper and lemon juice in a small bowl until completely smooth and creamy. Take your time to ensure no lumps remain and the herbs are evenly distributed
Prep the Cucumber:
Wash the cucumber well and thinly slice it into rounds using a sharp knife or mandoline. Lay the slices onto a paper towel and lightly salt them. Let them rest for 10 minutes so the extra moisture is drawn out then use another paper towel to gently pat them dry. This keeps your sandwiches from getting soggy
Assemble the Sandwiches:
Spread a generous layer of the cream cheese mixture over each bread slice all the way to the edges for every bite to be flavorful. Arrange cucumber slices on half of the bread slices covering the surface evenly. Press gently then top with the remaining bread slices cream cheese side down
Cut and Serve:
Ensure all crusts are removed for a classic look. Slice each sandwich into quarters or smaller squares for finger food. For extra flair secure each one with a fancy toothpick
Chill for Best Results:
Place the sandwiches on a platter cover lightly and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes. Chilling helps the flavors meld and gives the filling the perfect consistency for serving
A plate of sandwiches with cucumber and gold toothpicks. Save
A plate of sandwiches with cucumber and gold toothpicks. | recipesfoodyummy.com

Dill has always been my favorite herb especially paired with cucumber. I remember helping my mother snip fresh dill from our garden before parties. The scent still takes me back to those sunny afternoons

Storage Tips

Store leftover cucumber sandwiches in an airtight container lined with paper towels to absorb extra moisture. Refrigerate and eat within twenty four hours for best flavor and texture. They can dry out if left uncovered for too long so keep them sealed

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have white sandwich bread try soft wheat or thinly sliced rye. For the spread swap fresh herbs like chives or parsley. Goat cheese makes a tangier alternative to cream cheese and you could skip mayo altogether for a lighter bite

Serving Suggestions

Serve cucumber sandwiches on a tiered cake stand with scones and jam for a real afternoon tea vibe. Pair with chilled green tea iced lemonade or even light rosé for fancier occasions. For picnics wrap them tightly with parchment paper to keep them fresh

Cultural and Historical Context

Cucumber sandwiches are iconic elements of English afternoon tea. Their roots go back to Victorian high society when dainty bites were fashionable for showing sophistication. Today they are still loved for their simplicity and timeless charm across the world

Recipe FAQs

→ How do you keep cucumber sandwiches from getting soggy?

Lightly salt the cucumber slices and let them rest on a paper towel. This releases excess moisture, keeping the bread fresh and preventing sogginess.

→ What bread works best for these sandwiches?

Soft white sandwich bread with crusts removed is traditional, but whole wheat or sourdough can also be used for a twist.

→ Can you make these sandwiches ahead of time?

Yes, assemble and chill them briefly before serving. For longer storage, keep them tightly covered to preserve softness.

→ Is it necessary to peel the cucumber?

Peeling is optional. Keeping the peel adds color and texture, while peeling results in a smoother bite.

→ Are there variations on the classic spread?

You can add chives, mint, or even a touch of horseradish to the cream cheese base for different flavors.

Cucumber Cream Cheese Sandwiches

Cucumber, cream cheese, and fresh dill layered on soft bread for light, elegant bites.

Prep Time
20 mins
Cooking Time
~
Total Duration
20 mins
By: Loura

Recipe Type: Appetizers

Skill Level: Beginner-Friendly

Cuisine: British

Portions Yielded: 4 Serving Size (16 sandwich quarters)

Dietary Preferences: Vegetarian

What You'll Need

→ Sandwich Base

01 8 slices white sandwich bread, crusts removed

→ Vegetables

02 1 English cucumber, thinly sliced

→ Spread

03 115 grams cream cheese, softened
04 1 tablespoon mayonnaise (optional)
05 1 teaspoon fresh dill, chopped (or 0.5 teaspoon dried dill)
06 Salt, to taste
07 Black pepper, to taste
08 Lemon juice, a squeeze (optional)

Steps To Follow

Step 01

Combine softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, dill, salt, pepper, and lemon juice in a small bowl. Mix until smooth and evenly blended.

Step 02

Wash and thinly slice the cucumber. Optionally peel if desired. Lay slices on a paper towel, sprinkle lightly with salt, and let rest for 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Gently pat the slices dry.

Step 03

Evenly spread the cream cheese mixture on all bread slices. Arrange cucumber slices over half the bread, then cover with the remaining slices to form sandwiches.

Step 04

Trim any remaining crusts. Slice sandwiches into quarters or squares. Optionally secure each with a decorative toothpick for serving.

Step 05

Place assembled sandwiches in the refrigerator for 15 to 30 minutes to enhance texture and flavor before serving.

Notes and Tips

  1. Use fresh dill if available for enhanced flavor. Removing excess cucumber moisture prevents soggy sandwiches.

Required Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Spreading knife
  • Chef's knife
  • Cutting board

Allergy Info

Double-check every ingredient for possible allergens and consult a health professional if you're unsure.
  • Contains dairy and gluten

Nutritional Info (per serving)

These details are for informational purposes only and shouldn't replace medical advice.
  • Caloric Content: 132
  • Fats: 6 g
  • Carbohydrates: 15 g
  • Proteins: 3.6 g