Cucumber sandwiches are the ultimate blend of simplicity and elegance. Whether you’re hosting an afternoon tea, packing a light picnic, or just craving something refreshing, these dainty bites hit the spot every time. Made with soft bread, creamy herb spread, and crisp cucumber slices, they’re a delightful snack that’s as easy to make as it is to love.
This is one of those recipes that you’ll come back to again and again. It’s light, fresh, and completely customizable. Plus, you can throw it together in just minutes!
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Soft white or whole wheat bread (crusts removed)
- Cream cheese, softened
- Mayonnaise (adds a silky creaminess)
- Fresh lemon juice
- Fresh dill (or dried, in a pinch)
- Garlic powder
- Salt and pepper
- Fresh cucumber, thinly sliced
Why You’ll Love These Cucumber Sandwiches
Simple and Fast: You only need a few pantry staples and about 15 minutes to whip up a batch.
Perfectly Refreshing: Crisp cucumber and creamy spread make for a cooling bite that’s especially lovely on warm days.
Elegant and Charming: Whether you’re having guests over or just treating yourself, these sandwiches feel fancy without the fuss.
Customizable: From herb variations to spicy additions, you can easily make them your own.
How to Make Cucumber Sandwiches
Step 1: Prepare the Cucumbers
Wash and thinly slice the cucumber using a mandoline or a sharp knife for even slices. Lightly sprinkle the slices with salt and let them rest for about 10 minutes—this helps draw out excess moisture and keeps your sandwiches from getting soggy. Afterward, gently pat the slices dry with a paper towel.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Herb Spread
In a mixing bowl, stir together the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, lemon juice, chopped dill, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until it’s smooth and well combined. If you’re using dried dill, you might want to let the mixture sit for a few minutes so the flavors can meld together nicely.
Step 3: Assemble the Sandwiches
Lay out your bread slices. Spread a thin, even layer of the cream cheese mixture on each slice, going edge to edge. This not only boosts flavor but also acts as a barrier to keep moisture away from the bread.
Now, place the cucumber slices on half of the bread slices, slightly overlapping them for even coverage. Top with the remaining slices of bread, spread side down.
Step 4: Trim and Cut
Gently press each sandwich together, then trim off the crusts (if you haven’t already). Use a sharp serrated knife to cut each sandwich into quarters or triangles for that classic tea sandwich look.
Step 5: Serve or Chill
Serve your cucumber sandwiches right away for the freshest flavor and texture. If you’re prepping ahead for a gathering, cover them with a slightly damp paper towel and wrap in plastic wrap. Keep them chilled until ready to serve.
Tips and Tricks
Choose the Right Bread:
Soft, thinly sliced white bread is traditional, but whole wheat works just as well and adds a subtle nutty flavor. Avoid dense breads, as they can overwhelm the delicate filling.
Get Creative with Herbs:
Fresh dill is a favorite here, but you can switch things up with fresh chives, parsley, mint, or even basil. Each brings a new twist to the flavor.
Use English Cucumbers:
These are less watery and have fewer seeds than standard cucumbers, making them ideal for sandwiches. If you’re using regular cucumbers, you may want to scoop out some of the seeds.
Don’t Skip the Salt Step:
Salting and drying the cucumber slices helps keep your sandwiches crisp and prevents sogginess.
Want to Add a Little Heat?
Try a sprinkle of cayenne or a swipe of horseradish in the cream cheese mixture. It’s a subtle kick that elevates the flavor without overpowering the refreshing cucumber.
Optional Add-ins for Extra Flavor
- A thin slice of goat cheese or feta for a rich, tangy punch.
- Crushed walnuts or slivered almonds for crunch.
- Radishes or arugula for a peppery note.
- Flavored cream cheeses (like garlic herb or chive) for added flair.
- A swipe of hummus or tzatziki instead of cream cheese for a Mediterranean twist.
Serving Suggestions
Cucumber sandwiches are ideal finger food. Here are a few ideas for how to serve them:
- Afternoon Tea: Pair them with scones, jam, and a pot of Earl Grey for a proper tea experience.
- Brunch Platter: Add them to a spread with fruit, cheese, mini quiches, and pastries.
- Garden Party: Serve with lemonade, iced tea, or sparkling water with fresh mint.
- Kid-Friendly Snack: Cut into small squares and serve with fresh fruit for a nutritious afternoon bite.
Storage Instructions
These sandwiches are best eaten fresh but can be made ahead if needed.
- Make-Ahead Tip: Assemble up to 4 hours in advance. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate.
- Short-Term Storage: Store in an airtight container with a slightly damp paper towel to maintain freshness for up to 1 day.
- Do Not Freeze: The texture of the cucumbers and the creamy spread doesn’t hold up well to freezing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What bread works best for cucumber sandwiches?
Soft white or whole wheat sandwich bread is best. You can also try rye or sourdough for a heartier variation.
Do I need to peel the cucumbers?
It’s up to you! Peeling gives a more refined look, while leaving the skin on adds texture and nutrients.
Can I make these vegan?
Absolutely. Use plant-based cream cheese and mayo for a dairy-free version.
How do I keep them from getting soggy?
Salt the cucumber slices, let them sit, and then pat them dry. Also, make sure to spread the cream cheese all the way to the edge to seal in the filling.
Can I add other vegetables?
Yes! Try thin slices of radish, arugula, or shredded carrot for extra crunch.
Is there a gluten-free option?
Just swap the bread with your favorite gluten-free version.
Can I use flavored cream cheese?
Definitely. Garlic herb, chive, or even sun-dried tomato cream cheese can bring great flavor.
Can kids eat these?
They’re actually great for kids—soft, mild, and easy to eat.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve never tried making cucumber sandwiches at home, now is the perfect time. They’re charming, ridiculously easy, and always a hit whether you’re feeding kids, guests, or just treating yourself to something light and satisfying. This recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen!
Give it a try—you might just fall in love with its simple elegance and refreshing taste.
Cucumber Sandwiches
Ingredients
- 8 slices white or whole wheat bread, crusts removed
- 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, finely chopped (or 1/2 tsp dried dill)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 medium cucumber, thinly sliced
Instructions
- In a small bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, lemon juice, dill, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
- Spread a thin layer of the cream cheese mixture onto one side of each bread slice.
- Arrange the cucumber slices in a single layer on half of the bread slices.
- Top with the remaining bread slices, spread-side down, to form sandwiches.
- Gently press the sandwiches together and trim the crusts (if not already removed).
- Cut each sandwich into quarters or triangles for serving.
- Arrange the cucumber sandwiches on a platter and serve immediately. For added freshness, garnish with a sprig of dill or parsley.
