Can I make cucumber sandwiches ahead of time?

Cucumber sandwiches are best served fresh, as the bread can become soggy over time. However, you can prepare the herbed cream cheese spread up to two days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. To save time, you can also cut the bread and store it in an airtight container for a few hours before assembling.

What type of bread is best for cucumber sandwiches?

Soft white sandwich bread is the traditional choice because of its delicate texture. However, you can also use whole wheat, rye, or gluten-free bread. Just make sure the bread is fresh and soft for the best results.

How do I keep cucumber sandwiches from getting soggy?

To prevent sogginess, use English cucumbers, which have less water. Sprinkle the cucumber slices with salt and let them sit for 15-30 minutes before patting them dry. Spreading the herbed cream cheese on both slices of bread also creates a moisture barrier.

Can I add other ingredients to the sandwich?

Yes! While traditional cucumber sandwiches are simple, you can add thinly sliced red onions, radishes, or a small amount of smoked salmon for extra flavor. Just keep additions light so they don’t overpower the delicate taste.

The Perfect Cucumber Sandwiches

Name: The Perfect Cucumber Sandwiches
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: British-American
Ingredients: 16 slices high-quality soft white sandwich bread, crusts removed; 1 English cucumber, thinly sliced; 8 ounces cream cheese, softened; 1/4 cup mayonnaise; 1 tablespoon fresh dill, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh chives, minced; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt; Cracked black pepper, to taste

Description

These classic cucumber sandwiches are a refreshing, elegant appetizer perfect for tea parties, brunches, or light snacks. Made with soft white bread, a creamy herbed spread, and crisp cucumber slices, they are simple yet packed with flavor.

Ingredients

Scale

16 slices high-quality soft white sandwich bread, crusts removed
1 English cucumber, thinly sliced
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon fresh dill, minced
1 tablespoon fresh chives, minced
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
Cracked black pepper, to taste

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Instructions

Prepare the cucumbers: Peel the cucumber in stripes (optional) and slice it into thin rounds about 1/8-inch thick. Lay the slices on paper towels, sprinkle with salt, and let them sit for 15-30 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Pat dry with clean paper towels.
Make the herbed spread: In a medium bowl, mix softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, fresh dill, chives, lemon juice, garlic powder, and salt until smooth and well combined. Let it rest at room temperature for easy spreading.
Prepare the bread: Using a sharp knife, remove the crusts from the bread slices to create soft, even edges. This step ensures a delicate bite and an elegant presentation.
Assemble the sandwiches: Spread an even layer of the herbed cream cheese mixture on one side of each bread slice. Arrange the cucumber slices over half of the bread slices, slightly overlapping them. Sprinkle with freshly cracked black pepper to enhance the flavor. Place the remaining bread slices on top, cream cheese side down, to form full sandwiches.
Cut into shapes: Using a sharp chef’s knife, cut each sandwich into four squares, triangles, or rounds using a biscuit cutter. Wipe the knife clean between cuts for neat edges.
Serve immediately: For the best texture and flavor, serve the sandwiches fresh. If needed, cover them with a damp paper towel and refrigerate for up to two hours before serving.

Notes

To make these sandwiches even lighter, you can use low-fat cream cheese and mayonnaise.
For a dairy-free version, substitute plant-based cream cheese and vegan mayo.
If you want extra flavor, try adding a thin layer of butter to the bread before spreading the herbed cream cheese.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Appetizer
Method: No-cook
Cuisine: British-American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 sandwich
Calories: 71 kcal
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 114mg
Fat: 4g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Unsaturated Fat: 1g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 7g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 2g
Cholesterol: 9mg