Creamy Cucumber Benedictine Tea Sandwiches Recipe: Pure Tea-Time Joy

Benedictine spread creates a magical moment in these delightful cucumber tea sandwiches that whisper Southern charm.

Crisp cucumber slices nestle between soft bread layers, revealing a classic Kentucky tradition.

Classic Louisville cuisine shines through this simple yet elegant recipe.

Delicate flavors blend seamlessly with creamy spreadable goodness.

Fresh ingredients make all the difference in these petite sandwiches.

Crunch and smoothness dance together in each perfectly crafted bite.

Creamy Cucumber Sandwiches Worth Making Again

• Craft with Ease: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe perfect for home cooks of all skill levels, even beginners can master these delightful tea sandwiches.
• Crowd-Pleasing Perfection: Creamy, tangy Benedictine spread creates a unique flavor profile that appeals to both kids and adults, making it ideal for family gatherings, brunches, or afternoon tea parties.
• Flexible Preparation: The spread can be made ahead of time and refrigerated, allowing you to prepare components in advance and reduce last-minute kitchen stress for seamless entertaining.
• Versatile Serving Style: These sandwiches can be transformed for various occasions – from elegant tea parties to casual picnics, offering a sophisticated yet approachable culinary experience that always impresses guests.

Items You’ll Need for Tea Sandwiches

• Cream Cheese: A smooth, creamy ingredient that creates the foundation for the Benedictine spread.
• Mayonnaise: Adds richness and helps bind the ingredients together.
• Sour Cream: Provides a tangy flavor and helps create a creamy texture.

• Cucumber: A fresh, crisp vegetable that gives the spread its signature light and cool character.
• Green Onions: Adds a mild, sharp flavor and subtle onion notes to the spread.
• Dill: A fragrant herb that brings a bright, fresh taste to the sandwich spread.

• Salt, Black Pepper: Classic seasonings that enhance the overall flavor of the Benedictine spread.

How to Make Cucumber Tea Sandwiches at Home

Step 1: Prepare Cucumber

Grab a fresh cucumber and give it a gentle wash. Peel the skin completely using a sharp vegetable peeler.

Slice the cucumber lengthwise and scoop out all the seeds with a small spoon. Grate the cucumber using the large holes of a box grater onto a clean surface.

Step 2: Remove Excess Moisture

Transfer the grated cucumber into a fine-mesh strainer. Sprinkle a pinch of salt over the cucumber and let it sit for 15 minutes.

After draining, wrap the cucumber in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze firmly to remove all excess liquid.

Step 3: Chop Green Onions

Trim the root ends and any wilted parts from green onions.

Slice them finely, including both white and green sections, to create delicate, flavorful pieces.

Step 4: Whip Cream Cheese

Take softened cream cheese and beat it in a medium bowl.

Use a wooden spoon or electric mixer to create a smooth, fluffy texture. Make sure to scrape down the bowl’s sides to eliminate any stubborn lumps.

Step 5: Blend Creamy Mixture

• Drained cucumber
• Minced green onions
• Chopped fresh dill
• Mayonnaise
• Sour cream

Mix everything thoroughly until the ingredients are evenly distributed.

Step 6: Season Perfectly

Gradually add salt and pepper, tasting as you go.

The spread should have a balanced, delightful flavor without being overly salty.

Step 7: Chill Spread

Cover the mixture and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

This allows the flavors to mingle and develop a more complex taste.

Step 8: Prepare Bread

Select your favorite bread – white bread works best for traditional tea sandwiches.

Trim the crusts if you want a more elegant look.

Step 9: Build Sandwiches

Spread a generous layer of Benedictine on one bread slice.

Top with another slice and press gently to ensure they stick together.

Step 10: Slice and Present

Cut the sandwiches into triangles, fingers, or small squares.

For an extra touch, garnish with fresh dill sprigs. Serve and enjoy these delightful tea sandwiches!

Helpful Ideas When Assembling Tea Sandwiches

• Remove excess moisture completely to prevent soggy, watery sandwiches that lose their crisp texture and elegant appearance.
• Add salt and pepper gradually, tasting as you mix to create a perfectly seasoned spread without overwhelming the delicate cucumber notes.
• Refrigerate the spread for at least 30 minutes to allow ingredients to blend and develop a more complex, harmonious flavor profile.
• Choose soft, fresh white bread for traditional tea sandwiches, trimming crusts for a refined, delicate presentation that's true to classic tea party style.
• Make the Benedictine spread up to 24 hours in advance, allowing flavors to meld and saving time when preparing for your gathering.

Cucumber Tea Sandwiches With a Fresh Twist

• Spicy Southern Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the Benedictine spread for a zesty, peppery flavor that honors Kentucky's culinary spirit.
• Mediterranean Herb Fusion: Replace dill with fresh chopped basil and oregano, and incorporate crumbled feta cheese for a Greek-inspired version of the classic sandwich.
• Smoked Salmon Upgrade: Layer thin slices of smoked salmon on top of the Benedictine spread before closing the sandwich, creating an elegant and rich protein-packed variation.
• Veggie Garden Blend: Mix in finely chopped roasted red peppers and a sprinkle of chives to introduce additional garden-fresh complexity to the original recipe.

Simple Foods That Match Tea Sandwich Flavor

• Pair with Crisp White Wine: Select a light, refreshing Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio that complements the cucumber's delicate flavor and cuts through the creamy spread's richness.
• Match with Herbal Tea: Brew a cool and elegant chamomile or green tea that echoes the fresh herb notes in the sandwich, creating a harmonious flavor profile perfect for afternoon tea.
• Serve with Sparkling Water: Add a slice of cucumber or lemon to mineral water for a clean, palate-cleansing companion that enhances the sandwich's subtle cucumber essence without overwhelming its delicate taste.
• Complement with Light Salad: Create a simple mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the creamy sandwich, providing a fresh and crisp counterpoint to the rich Benedictine spread.

Keeping Tea Sandwiches Fresh and Crisp

Store leftover Benedictine spread in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Keep refrigerated at 40°F or below to maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth.

Wrap the spread tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before using.

Gently blot any moisture from sandwiches with a paper towel. Warm briefly at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving to restore texture.

Keep bread and spread separate when storing. Assemble sandwiches just before serving to maintain crispness and prevent bread from becoming soft.

FAQs

• What is Benedictine spread in this recipe?

Benedictine is a traditional Kentucky-style spread created by Jennie Benedict in Louisville, originally made with cucumber and cream cheese. It’s a creamy, tangy mixture typically used for sandwiches and appetizers.

• Can I use low-fat cream cheese for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute low-fat cream cheese, but the texture and richness might be slightly different. Full-fat cream cheese provides the best flavor and creamiest consistency for Benedictine spread.

• How long can I keep the Benedictine spread in the refrigerator?

The spread can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to keep it chilled and covered to maintain its freshness and prevent bacterial growth.

Creamy Cucumber Benedictine Tea Sandwiches Recipe

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4.9 from 34 reviews

• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 24 1x

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Description

Cucumber Benedictine tea sandwiches bring Southern comfort to classic afternoon refreshments. Delicate layers of cream cheese spread and crisp cucumber slices create an elegant Kentucky-inspired bite perfect for summer gatherings.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 2 (8 ounces) packages cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup cucumber, peeled, seeded, and shredded
• 1/2 cup minced green onions

Herb and Seasoning Ingredients:

• 4 tablespoons chopped dill

Binding Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon sour cream
• Salt to taste
• Pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Drain cucumber thoroughly by grating and placing in a fine-mesh strainer with salt for 15 minutes to remove excess moisture, preventing soggy texture.
2. Transfer grated cucumber to a clean kitchen towel and squeeze firmly to extract remaining liquid, ensuring a concentrated flavor profile.
3. Finely mince green onions, utilizing both white and green sections for maximum aromatic depth.
4. Whip cream cheese until ultra-smooth and fluffy, creating a luxurious base for the sandwich spread.
5. Incorporate drained cucumber, minced green onions, chopped dill, mayonnaise, and sour cream into the cream cheese, blending until uniformly mixed.
6. Gradually season with salt and pepper, tasting to achieve a balanced flavor without overwhelming saltiness.
7. Refrigerate the prepared spread for 30 minutes to 24 hours, allowing ingredients to harmonize and intensify their collective taste.
8. Select bread slices, trimming crusts if preferred for a refined tea sandwich presentation.
9. Apply a generous layer of Benedictine spread across bread surface, creating an even coating that reaches the edges.
10. Gently press sandwich halves together, then slice into elegant triangles, fingers, or bite-sized squares for serving.
11. Optional: Garnish with delicate dill sprigs to enhance visual appeal and provide a hint of fresh herbaceous flavor.

Notes

• Drain cucumber thoroughly to prevent soggy sandwiches, using a fine-mesh strainer and kitchen towel for maximum moisture removal.
• Experiment with different bread types like whole wheat, rye, or gluten-free options to accommodate various dietary preferences.
• Add extra flavor dimensions by incorporating finely chopped fresh herbs like chives or parsley alongside the dill for a more complex taste profile.
• For a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream and use reduced-fat cream cheese without compromising the creamy texture.

• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Appetizer
• Method: Blending
• Cuisine: British

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 24
• Calories: 102
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 168 mg
• Fat: 10 g
• Saturated Fat: 6 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
• Trans Fat: 0.2 g
• Carbohydrates: 2 g
• Fiber: 0.3 g
• Protein: 2 g
• Cholesterol: 31 mg