When it comes to afternoon delights, there’s nothing quite like a dainty tea sandwich. These bite-sized treats are the perfect accompaniment to a steaming cup of tea or coffee, and can be easily customized with a variety of fillings and flavors. From classic combinations like cucumber and cream cheese to more adventurous pairings like smoked salmon and dill, there’s an elegant tea sandwich recipe out there for every taste.
In this article, we’ll explore 20 exquisite tea sandwich recipes that are sure to impress your guests and satisfy your cravings. Whether you’re hosting a sophisticated soiree or simply looking for a delightful pick-me-up, these refined recipes will provide endless inspiration for your next tea time gathering.
Cucumber and Cream Cheese Tea Sandwiches
Elevate your tea party game with these refreshing and flavorful sandwiches that combine the coolness of cucumber with the richness of cream cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 large cucumber, peeled and thinly sliced
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 4 tablespoons butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 12-15 slices of white bread (preferably a crustless bread)
– Fresh dill or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, mix together cream cheese, butter, salt, and pepper until smooth.
2. Arrange the cucumber slices on one slice of bread, leaving a small border around the edges.
3. Spread about 1-2 teaspoons of the cream cheese mixture over the cucumber.
4. Place another slice of bread on top to create a sandwich.
5. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
6. Serve immediately, or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: None needed! These sandwiches are ready to be devoured as soon as you assemble them.
Smoked Salmon and Dill Tea Sandwiches
Elevate your tea party or brunch with these elegant sandwiches, featuring the rich flavors of smoked salmon and fresh dill.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 pound smoked salmon, flaked
– 2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
– 4 tea sandwiches (white bread)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the smoked salmon, cream cheese, and chopped dill until well combined.
2. Spread a layer of the salmon mixture onto each tea sandwich.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None required! These sandwiches are best served fresh.
Egg Salad with Chives Tea Sandwiches
Elevate your afternoon tea with a timeless combination of creamy egg salad and delicate chive-infused sandwiches. This simple yet elegant recipe is perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large eggs, hard-boiled and chopped
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon chopped fresh chives
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 baguette, cut into 1-inch slices
– Unsalted butter, softened
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine eggs, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
2. Stir in chopped chives.
3. Butter each baguette slice lightly.
4. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of egg salad onto each buttered slice.
5. Top with another slice to create a sandwich.
6. Cut off the crust, if desired.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Chicken Curry Tea Sandwiches
Elevate your tea party game with these flavorful Chicken Curry Tea Sandwiches, perfect for any gathering or afternoon delight. This recipe combines the warmth of curry with the classic comfort of a tea sandwich.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 2 tablespoons curry powder
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
– 4-6 white bread slices (toasted)
– 2 lettuce leaves
– 2 tomato slices
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together chicken, curry powder, and butter until well combined.
3. Spread a layer of the chicken mixture onto each toasted bread slice.
4. Top with lettuce, tomato, and salt and pepper to taste.
5. Assemble sandwiches by placing another bread slice on top (to create a sandwich).
6. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Ham and Brie with Honey Mustard Tea Sandwiches
Elevate your tea party with these elegant Ham and Brie with Honey Mustard Tea Sandwiches. The sweetness of the honey mustard and the creaminess of the brie perfectly balance the savory ham, making for a delightful and easy-to-make snack.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup thinly sliced ham
– 1/4 cup brie cheese, softened
– 2 tablespoons honey mustard
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
– 4 slices white bread (such as baguette or English muffin)
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. Spread one side of each bread slice with butter.
3. Top two bread slices with ham, brie cheese, and honey mustard.
4. Place the remaining bread slices on top to create sandwiches.
5. Cook in the panini press or grill for 2-3 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley leaves and serve.
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes
Watercress and Butter Tea Sandwiches
A refreshing twist on a classic tea sandwich, this recipe combines the peppery flavor of watercress with the richness of butter and the subtle sweetness of tea. Perfect for a light and elegant afternoon treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons loose-leaf tea leaves (English breakfast or green tea work well)
– 4-6 slices white bread (such as baguette or sandwich loaf)
– 1/4 cup fresh watercress leaves and stems
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil.
2. Remove from heat and add tea leaves. Let steep for 5-7 minutes, then strain the tea into a clean bowl.
3. Spread one side of each bread slice with softened butter.
4. Top each buttered slice with a few sprigs of watercress.
5. Place another bread slice, butter-side down, on top to form a sandwich.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with additional watercress if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Pimento Cheese Tea Sandwiches
These bite-sized sandwiches are a staple at any tea party or gathering. The creamy pimento cheese filling and crispy bread combination is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 loaf of white sandwich bread, cut into 1/4-inch thick slices
– 8 ounces pimento cheese spread (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives or scallions (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Spread about 1 tablespoon of pimento cheese on the unbuttered side of two bread slices.
4. Place the other bread slices, buttered side up, on top of the filling.
5. Cook in the panini press or grill for 3-4 minutes, until the bread is toasted and the cheese is melted.
6. Garnish with chopped chives or scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 3-4 minutes
Roasted Red Pepper and Goat Cheese Tea Sandwiches
Elevate your afternoon tea with these flavorful and elegant sandwiches. Sweet roasted red peppers pair perfectly with creamy goat cheese, all wrapped up in crispy bread.
Ingredients:
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 2 red bell peppers, roasted (see note)
– 8 ounces goat cheese, crumbled
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Unsalted butter, softened
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast the red bell peppers according to package instructions.
3. Spread a small amount of softened butter on each baguette slice.
4. Top with a spoonful of roasted red pepper, crumbled goat cheese, and chopped parsley.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Assemble the sandwiches by placing the filling between two baguette slices.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (depending on roasting time for red peppers)
Avocado and Radish Tea Sandwiches
A refreshing twist on traditional tea sandwiches, these bite-sized treats combine the creamy richness of avocado with the spicy crunch of radishes.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of white bread (preferably a crustless variety)
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 2-3 thinly sliced radishes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon butter, softened
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Spread a layer of mashed avocado on the unbuttered side of two bread slices.
4. Top with a few slices of radish and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
5. Place the other bread slice, butter-side up, on top of the filling.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is toasted and the filling is heated through.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes
Tuna Salad with Lemon Zest Tea Sandwiches
A refreshing twist on classic tuna salad, this recipe combines canned tuna with lemon zest and a hint of tea for a deliciously unique flavor. Perfect for a light lunch or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon of freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon of grated lemon zest
– 1/4 teaspoon of tea leaves (such as Earl Grey or English Breakfast)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 slices of white bread
– Unsalted butter, softened
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine tuna, mayonnaise, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Mix until well combined.
2. Stir in tea leaves and season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Butter one side of each slice of bread.
4. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of tuna salad onto the unbuttered side of each slice.
5. Top with another slice of bread (butter-side down).
6. Cut into quarters or halves, depending on desired size.
Cooking Time: None! Assemble and serve immediately.
Turkey and Cranberry Tea Sandwiches
A delightful twist on traditional tea sandwiches, these bite-sized treats combine the flavors of roasted turkey, tangy cranberries, and creamy butter for a perfect pairing with your favorite cup of tea.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 pound cooked turkey breast, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh or frozen cranberries, chopped
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 4-6 slices white bread (such as Challah or baguette)
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together chopped cranberries and softened butter until well combined.
2. Spread a small amount of mayonnaise on each slice of bread.
3. Top with a layer of turkey breast, followed by a dollop of the cranberry-butter mixture.
4. Drizzle with Dijon mustard and top with another slice of bread.
5. Cut into quarters or halves for bite-sized sandwiches.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh thyme leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (assembling only)
Bacon and Tomato Jam Tea Sandwiches
Elevate your afternoon tea game with these delightful sandwiches featuring the sweet and savory combination of crispy bacon, tangy tomato jam, and fresh herbs. Perfect for a elegant gathering or a cozy afternoon treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 loaf white bread
– 6 slices of cooked bacon
– 1/4 cup tomato jam
– 2 tablespoons butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the bacon until crispy, then set aside.
3. Spread a layer of butter on each bread slice.
4. Top with a few strips of cooked bacon, followed by a spoonful of tomato jam.
5. Sprinkle with chopped parsley and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Assemble the sandwiches by placing another bread slice on top.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Herbed Cream Cheese and Cucumber Tea Sandwiches
Elevate your afternoon tea with these elegant Herbed Cream Cheese and Cucumber Tea Sandwiches, perfect for a sophisticated gathering or everyday indulgence. The combination of creamy cheese, crunchy cucumber, and fragrant herbs will delight your taste buds.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 2 large cucumbers, peeled and thinly sliced
– 12-16 tea biscuits or small sandwich rounds
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together cream cheese, parsley, and dill until well combined.
2. Spread a small amount of the herbed cream cheese onto each tea biscuit or sandwich round.
3. Top with a slice of cucumber.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Assemble sandwiches just before serving.
Cooking Time: None
Shrimp and Dill Tea Sandwiches
Elevate your afternoon tea with these bite-sized shrimp and dill sandwiches, perfect for a light and flavorful snack. The combination of succulent shrimp, tangy dill, and soft bread will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 pound cooked and chilled shrimp
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 12-15 small white or whole wheat bread slices (cut into triangles)
– Unsalted butter, softened
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together shrimp, dill, mayonnaise, and lemon juice.
2. Spread a small amount of softened butter on each bread slice.
3. Top with the shrimp mixture, dividing it evenly among the slices.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Assemble the sandwiches by placing the top slice of bread on each filling.
6. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (prep time included)
Fig and Blue Cheese Tea Sandwiches
A sweet and savory combination that will delight your taste buds, these tea sandwiches are perfect for a quick snack or a elegant gathering. Fresh figs and pungent blue cheese create a harmonious union on toasted bread, making this recipe a must-try.
Ingredients:
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1/2 cup fresh fig jam
– 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese (such as Roquefort or Gorgonzola)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet.
3. Spread a small amount of fig jam onto each slice.
4. Top with crumbled blue cheese and a sprinkle of unsalted butter.
5. Place the sandwiches in the oven for 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is slightly melted.
6. Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh thyme leaves.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Hummus and Roasted Vegetable Tea Sandwiches
Elevate your tea party game with these delightful sandwiches that combine the richness of hummus with the sweetness of roasted vegetables. Perfect for a light and satisfying snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked chickpeas
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large eggplant, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced into 1/4-inch thick strips
– 2 tablespoons hummus
– 12-15 tea sandwich biscuits (white or whole wheat)
– Fresh parsley or dill for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss eggplant and bell peppers with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and lightly browned.
4. In a blender or food processor, combine chickpeas, lemon juice, tahini, garlic, and salt. Blend until smooth.
5. Assemble sandwiches by spreading hummus on each biscuit, then topping with roasted vegetables.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley or dill.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes (including roasting time)
Chicken Waldorf Tea Sandwiches
These elegant finger sandwiches are perfect for your next tea party or special gathering. With their delicate flavors and beautiful presentation, they’re sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/4 cup celery, finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon lemon juice
– 4 slices white bread (preferably a crustless tea sandwich bread)
– Lettuce leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine chicken, walnuts, celery, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice. Mix until well combined.
2. Cut the bread into quarters or smaller squares to create uniform pieces.
3. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the chicken mixture onto each piece of bread.
4. Top with another slice of bread to form a sandwich.
5. Place lettuce leaves on top of each sandwich for garnish.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: None, as these sandwiches are best served chilled.
Prosciutto and Pear Tea Sandwiches
Elevate your tea party game with these elegant and delicious Prosciutto and Pear Tea Sandwiches. Thinly sliced prosciutto, crisp pear, and fresh mint come together in a perfect harmony of flavors and textures.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe pear, peeled and thinly sliced
– 6-8 slices of prosciutto
– 1/4 cup of fresh mint leaves
– 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter, softened
– 12-15 tea sandwich rounds (white or whole wheat)
Instructions:
1. Lay a tea sandwich round flat on a work surface.
2. Place one slice of prosciutto on the center of the bread.
3. Top with a few slices of pear and a sprinkle of fresh mint leaves.
4. Spread a small amount of softened butter on the edges of the bread to hold the filling in place.
5. Fold the sandwich in half, forming a triangle or a rectangle shape.
6. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: None! Assemble just before serving for optimal flavor and texture.
Caprese Tea Sandwiches with Basil Pesto
Elevate your tea party game with these bite-sized Caprese sandwiches infused with the freshness of basil pesto. This recipe combines the simplicity of a caprese salad (tomato, mozzarella, and basil) with the richness of pesto in a delicate tea sandwich.
Ingredients:
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 2 large tomatoes, thinly sliced
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup basil pesto (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Place baguette slices on a baking sheet and toast until lightly browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Spread a small amount of basil pesto on each toasted baguette round.
4. Top with a slice of tomato, followed by a slice of mozzarella cheese.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh basil leaves.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Lemon Herb Chicken Tea Sandwiches
Elevate your tea party game with these delightful sandwiches, featuring juicy chicken, zesty lemon, and fragrant herbs. Perfect for warm weather gatherings or anytime you need a light and satisfying bite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 4 slices of white bread (preferably a crustless tea sandwich bread)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and rosemary.
2. Add the diced chicken to the marinade and mix until coated.
3. Assemble the sandwiches by spreading a layer of Dijon mustard on each bread slice, followed by a portion of the marinated chicken.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cut into quarters or halves for serving.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes ( preparation), 0 minutes (assembling)
Summary
Indulge in the elegance of afternoon tea with these 20 delightful tea sandwich recipes. From classic cucumber and cream cheese to smoked salmon and dill, there’s something for every taste. Enjoy egg salad with chives, chicken curry, ham and brie with honey mustard, watercress and butter, pimento cheese, roasted red pepper and goat cheese, avocado and radish, tuna salad with lemon zest, turkey and cranberry, bacon and tomato jam, herbed cream cheese and cucumber, shrimp and dill, fig and blue cheese, hummus and roasted vegetable, chicken Waldorf, prosciutto and pear, caprese with basil pesto, or lemon herb chicken. Perfect for a sophisticated soiree or a cozy gathering.
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