For the Cream Cheese Spread

• 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon fresh chives, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Sandwiches

• 1 English cucumber, thinly sliced
• 12 slices soft white bread (or whole wheat bread)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened (optional)
• Fresh dill for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Spread

In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, dill, chives, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy.

Step 2: Prepare the Cucumber

Wash the cucumber thoroughly and slice it into very thin rounds using a sharp knife or mandoline. Pat the slices dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps prevent the sandwiches from becoming soggy.

Step 3: Prepare the Bread

Trim the crusts from all slices of bread for the classic tea sandwich appearance. If desired, lightly spread a thin layer of softened butter on each slice to create a moisture barrier.

Step 4: Assemble the Sandwiches

Spread a generous layer of the cream cheese mixture over each slice of bread. Arrange the cucumber slices in a slightly overlapping layer on half of the bread slices.

Top with the remaining bread slices, cream cheese side down, gently pressing them together.

Step 5: Cut and Serve

Using a sharp serrated knife, cut each sandwich into halves, quarters, or elegant finger-sized rectangles.

Arrange on a serving platter and garnish with fresh dill if desired.

Serve immediately, or chill for 15–20 minutes before serving for the best flavor and texture.

Tips

• Pat the cucumber slices dry to keep the sandwiches crisp.
• Use fresh herbs for the brightest flavor.
• Assemble no more than a few hours before serving.
• Refrigerate covered until ready to serve.
• A mandoline slicer creates perfectly thin cucumber slices.

Variations

• Add thin slices of smoked salmon for a classic tea sandwich.
• Use whipped cream cheese for an extra light texture.
• Substitute mint or parsley for dill.
• Try rye, pumpernickel, or whole-grain bread for a different flavor.
• Add thinly sliced radishes for extra crunch.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes. Assemble them up to 4 hours in advance and keep them covered in the refrigerator.

How do I prevent soggy sandwiches?

Dry the cucumber slices well and lightly butter the bread before adding the cream cheese spread.

Can I use flavored cream cheese?

Absolutely. Herb and garlic cream cheese works especially well.

Can I freeze them?

Freezing is not recommended because cucumbers lose their crisp texture after thawing.

Servings

• Makes: 12 tea sandwiches
• Serves: 6

Approximate Nutrition (Per Sandwich)

• Calories: 165
• Protein: 4g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fat: 11g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 210mg