Cucumber Benedictine Tea Sandwiches Recipe

If you’re on the lookout for a classic Southern delight that’s light, flavorful, and absolutely charming, the Cucumber Benedictine Tea Sandwiches Recipe is here to win your heart. This simple yet elegant tea sandwich combines the creamy tang of cream cheese with the fresh crunch of shredded cucumber, brightened with hints of dill and green onion. Perfectly spread between soft white bread, these little bites are ideal for afternoon tea, bridal showers, or any gathering where you want to impress with minimal fuss. Once you try this recipe, it might just become your go-to for sophisticated snacking with a fresh and homemade touch.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of the Cucumber Benedictine Tea Sandwiches Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients, each playing an essential role in building the perfect balance of taste, texture, and color. From the luscious cream cheese base to the fresh crunch of cucumber and the herbal brightness of dill, every component makes a difference.

• Cream cheese (2 packages, 8 oz. each): Softened for a smooth and creamy base that carries the flavors beautifully.
• Green onions (½ cup minced): Adds a gentle oniony bite and a pop of green color to the spread.
• Cucumber (1 cup peeled, seeded, shredded): Brings a crisp freshness and subtle moisture to keep things light.
• Dill (4 tablespoons chopped): Provides a distinct, aromatic herb flavor that elevates the sandwich.
• Mayonnaise (2 tablespoons): Adds a creamy richness and smooth mouthfeel to the mixture.
• Sour cream (1 tablespoon): Adds a slight tang that balances the cream cheese and mayonnaise.
• Salt and pepper: For seasoning that perfectly complements the flavors without overpowering them.
• Good quality white bread (or bread of your choice): Soft and fluffy bread that holds the spread well for neat, delicate sandwiches.

How to Make Cucumber Benedictine Tea Sandwiches Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Cucumber

Begin by peeling your cucumber and slicing it in half lengthwise to remove the seeds with a spoon. Then grate the cucumber using the large holes of a box grater. Salting and draining the grated cucumber for 15 minutes in a mesh strainer is key to drawing out excess moisture, which prevents soggy sandwiches later.

Step 2: Extract Cucumber Moisture

Once drained, wrap the grated cucumber in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze firmly to get rid of as much water as possible. This step is crucial for keeping your Benedictine spread thick and creamy rather than watery.

Step 3: Prepare the Green Onions

Trim off the roots and any wilted parts, then mince both white and green sections finely. Tiny pieces help distribute their fresh, zesty flavor evenly through the spread.

Step 4: Make the Cream Cheese Base

Beat the softened cream cheese until it’s completely smooth and fluffy. This usually takes about 2 minutes with a mixer or a wooden spoon. There should be no lumps, which ensures a luscious texture for your sandwich filling.

Step 5: Combine the Ingredients

Into the smooth cream cheese, mix in the drained cucumber, minced green onions, chopped dill, mayonnaise, and sour cream. Stir everything until evenly blended and you’ll notice the spread takes on a pale green hue from all those fresh ingredients.

Step 6: Season to Taste

Slowly add salt and pepper while tasting, making sure the spread is vibrant and flavorful but not over-salted. Balancing the seasoning here is what truly makes this recipe sing.

Step 7: Chill the Spread

Cover and refrigerate the Benedictine spread for at least 30 minutes (or up to 24 hours). This allows the flavors to meld and intensify, giving your sandwiches that irresistible, homemade vibe.

Step 8: Prepare the Bread

Choose soft white bread or your favorite sandwich bread, then carefully remove crusts with a sharp knife for the traditional tea sandwich presentation. This step creates neat, delicate sandwiches perfect for serving to guests.

Step 9: Assemble the Sandwiches

Spread a generous layer of the chilled Benedictine mixture on one slice, and top with another slice. Press gently so the sandwich sandwiches hold together without squishing the filling out.

Step 10: Cut and Serve

Use a sharp knife to cut the sandwiches into triangles, fingers, or squares. For neat edges, wipe the knife clean between cuts. Garnish with a small dill sprig if you want to impress even further with presentation.

How to Serve Cucumber Benedictine Tea Sandwiches Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh dill sprigs are an easy and elegant garnish that add a little extra color and aroma. You can also experiment with thin cucumber ribbons or edible flowers to make your tea sandwiches even more inviting and Instagram-ready.

Side Dishes

This recipe pairs beautifully with light sides like chilled soups, fresh fruit salad, or a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette. The freshness and creaminess of the sandwiches balance well with crisp, bright flavors alongside.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try serving the Cucumber Benedictine Tea Sandwiches Recipe on colorful cookie cutters for whimsical shapes. You can also stack them in layers separated by parchment paper for an impressive tea tray, or pair with a pot of fragrant herbal tea for a classic afternoon treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, wrap the sandwiches tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container to keep the bread from drying out. Store in the refrigerator and consume within 1 to 2 days for best flavor and texture.

Freezing

Freezing is not recommended for these delicate sandwiches since the cucumber’s moisture and bread texture do not freeze well, which may result in sogginess and a loss of fresh flavor upon thawing.

Reheating

Since these sandwiches are best served cold or at room temperature, reheating is not suggested. Enjoy them chilled straight from the fridge or allow them to sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving for optimum texture.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe vegan or dairy-free?

Absolutely! You can substitute the cream cheese, mayonnaise, and sour cream with vegan alternatives made from cashews, soy, or coconut. Just make sure to keep the seasoning balanced and use firm bread for structure.

How long will the Benedictine spread stay fresh?

The cucumber Benedictine spread will keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, but it tastes freshest within the first 24 hours.

Can I use another type of bread besides white bread?

Yes, while traditional recipes call for white bread, you can use whole wheat, rye, or even gluten-free bread depending on your preference. Just choose soft, thin-sliced bread for the best texture.

Is there a way to make the sandwiches ahead for a party?

You can prepare the spread and slice the bread a day in advance. However, assemble the sandwiches only a few hours before serving to avoid sogginess and keep them fresh.

Can I add other herbs or flavors to the spread?

Definitely! Fresh chives, mint, or tarragon complement the cucumber and dill nicely. Just add them sparingly to maintain the dish’s delicate balance that’s signature to the Cucumber Benedictine Tea Sandwiches Recipe.

Final Thoughts

If you want to bring a bit of Southern charm and fresh sophistication to your next gathering, the Cucumber Benedictine Tea Sandwiches Recipe is the perfect choice. Its blend of creamy, crisp, and herby flavors wrapped in soft bread is simply irresistible. I encourage you to try this recipe soon and watch it become a beloved staple in your culinary repertoire—you’ll never look at tea sandwiches the same way again!

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