Perfect for afternoon tea or children’s tea party. For Brits, sandwiches are enjoyed for elevenses, lunch or afternoon tea. I may have already had thousands of sandwiches by now, whether its a Cheese Ploughman’s or a simple cheese and tomato. One of my favourites in the summertime is this Yogurt and Herb Sandwich.
What are Elevenses?
Well, it is almost a British teatime tradition, but actually isn’t that old. According to historian Bruce Richardson who specialised in British tea, this concept may have popped up in the 20th century because there’s no reference to the term in 1800s literature. Nonetheless, elevenses is strongly ingrained in today’s British culture. Around 11am, it is the most popular short meal break taken known as elevenses, which comes after proper breakfast and before proper lunch. Usually, one or two types of delicious snacks such as biscuits, cookies or a slice of cake and a cup of tea or coffee are taken. Although elevenses menu consists of biscuits, cakes and muffins, I don’t mind something savoury for breaks like elevenses. Then why not Cream Cheese and Cucumber Sandwich! These quintessentially English sandwiches are considered as high society food, and it is simple to make but ridiculously tasty. They are great for luncheons, elevenses, afternoon tea or picnic. These sandwiches composed of delicious spread that is combined of two ingredients, cream cheese and herb and topped with refreshing paper-thin cucumbers a refreshing bite between crustless white bread. These finger sandwiches makes the perfect appetizer, snack or excellent British garden party, and liked by old and young as they are light and refreshing. If preparing for an afternoon tea, you can serve them alongside these Lavender Scones and Masala Chai.
Cucumber and Cream Cheese Sandwich Ingredients
Includes variations. Full measurements can be found in the recipe card below. The three main ingredients include bread, spread and cucumber. While the herbs are optional, they are totally worth adding! Bread – First and most important ingredient of these sandwiches is bread. Traditionally white bread is used, but whole grain is absolutely fine too. The bread must be extremely soft, softness is most important for a delicious sandwich. You can also use gluten-free bread. Dairy – Plain full fat soft cream cheese and butter plays a big role for yummy and tasty sandwiches.Cucumber – English cucumber is best for this recipe as the seeds are small and delicate. In the traditional recipe, the cucumber is peeled and thinly sliced (almost paper thin). However, if you keep the peel on, it won’t harm but only adds fibre in your diet.Herbs – traditionally fresh dill is used for this recipe, but chives would be a great choice too. Chop the herbs finely. If you cannot find fresh, use dried herbs. You can try other dried herb mixes if you wish. Seasoning – Freshly ground salt and black pepper.
How to make Cucumber and Cream Cheese Sandwiches
These are so simple and easy to make, you may want to include your young cook if you want. First I would start with preparing the spread. Take cream cheese, dill and/or chives in a bowl, dried or fresh or skip totally. However fresh tastes so much better. You may add salt and black pepper at this stage or sprinkle later. Combine everything in a bowl and leave it aside. Once spread is done, make thin slices of the cucumber. In the traditional recipe cucumber is peeled but once again if you prefer to leave it on, there is no harm in doing that. Now you are ready to assemble the sandwiches. Evenly spread butter on both slices of crustless white bread. Spread the cream cheese on one slice. Place cucumber slices on top. Sprinkle a bit of salt and pepper and top with the other slice of bread. If you already haven’t added in the first step. Cut it into the desired shape – either triangles or rectangles (finger sandwiches).
How to store
Although I would love to make sandwiches just before eating, sometimes I make them in advance. These sandwiches can be made up to 24 hours in advance. You want to make sure that each bread slice is fully covered with the butter and cream cheese spread. Spreading any fat like butter, margarine or cream cheese on the bread slice, works as a barrier for the wet ingredients such as tomato and cucumber. It also helps to pat dry the cucumber to get rid of excess moisture. Once prepared, cut into slices and store it in an airtight container.
Can I make these sandwiches vegan and gluten-free?
Definitely, you can. Use vegan cream cheese and butter and gluten free bread for this recipe. As always if you make this recipe, be sure to leave me a comment, rate this recipe and tag me on Instagram @jcookingodyssey or #jcookingodyssey. I love seeing all your photos of my recipe recreations! Don’t forget to follow me on social media using the buttons below – I can’t wait to see you all there!
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