🥒 Cucumber Sandwiches: The Coolest Classic at Any Tea Table

Delicate, dainty, and deliciously dramatic

Let’s spill the tea on the unsung hero of the tea tower: the cucumber sandwich. No, they’re not just “salad on bread.” These crisp little bites are practically royalty—and if sandwiches wore fascinators, this one would have feathers and pearls.

But where did they come from? Why are they so famous in tea culture? And—who made them posh?

📜 A Little History With Your Crusts Cut Off

Cucumber sandwiches came into fashion during the Victorian era, when afternoon tea became the height of genteel society. Back then, cucumbers were considered an exotic luxury—hard to grow, pricey to buy, and oh-so-fancy. So putting them in a sandwich? That was a way of saying: I have money, taste, and zero time for ham.

They weren’t designed to fill you up—they were meant to be light, refreshing, and ladylike. (Because heaven forbid a corseted debutante eat something that made her… full.)

Even Oscar Wilde got in on the action. In his play The Importance of Being Earnest, there’s a whole scene where Algernon devours all the cucumber sandwiches intended for his Aunt Augusta. Which, honestly, sounds like something we’d do too.

🥒 The Classic Cucumber Sandwich Recipe

Serves 4-6 tea guests (or 1 hungry tea hostess with zero regrets)

Ingredients:

• 1 English cucumber, thinly sliced

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1 loaf soft white sandwich bread (crusts off!)

• 4 oz cream cheese, softened

• 2 tablespoons butter, softened

• Optional: dill, chives, or mint for a little garden party flair

• Optional: a splash of lemon juice for brightness

Cucumber Sandwich Recipe

Steps:

1. Salt your cukes: Sprinkle sliced cucumbers with salt and let sit for 10–15 minutes. Pat dry with a paper towel—this step keeps your sammies from getting soggy.

2. Mix your spread: In a bowl, combine cream cheese, butter, and herbs if you’re using them. Spread a thin layer on each slice of bread.

3. Assemble: Layer cucumbers on one slice, top with another, and press gently.

4. Trim and slice: Cut off those crusts (don’t fight it—be elegant), then slice into triangles or fingers.

5. Serve immediately, or cover with a damp paper towel and chill until tea time.

💬 One Final Thought...

Don't do dairy? No worries! Here are your substitutions!

🌱 Vegan Substitutions for Cucumber Sandwiches

Original:

• Cream cheese

• Butter

• White sandwich bread (may contain dairy or eggs)

Vegan Alternatives:

• Vegan cream cheese – Brands like Kite Hill (almond-based), Miyoko’s (cashew-based), or Violife are creamy and flavorful.

• Vegan butter – Try Earth Balance, Miyoko’s, or Country Crock Plant Butter for a smooth, spreadable texture.

• Vegan sandwich bread – Check labels for milk, honey, or egg ingredients. Many store-bought sandwich breads are accidentally vegan (like certain varieties of Arnold, Dave’s Killer Bread, or store brands).

Optional Herby Add-ins:

• Fresh dill, chives, or mint are naturally vegan—so go wild with the garden party vibes!

Optional Flavor Boost:

• A splash of lemon juice or a pinch of garlic powder in the vegan cream cheese mix adds brightness and depth.

Remember, the cucumber sandwich is more than just a bite—it’s a vibe. It’s polite gossip with your pinky up. It’s elegance on a plate. It’s how we gracefully snack between sips of Earl Grey and compliments on our hats.

So next time you’re setting the table, don’t overlook the humble cucumber sandwich. She’s not boring—she’s iconic. Just like you.

P.S. Want to taste the real deal? Book a seat at our next tea party for tiered towers of treats, tea, and timeless fun:www.whatspoppinusa.com/events