The art of creating elegant tea sandwiches is a delicate one, requiring just the right balance of flavors, textures, and presentation. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 exquisite tea sandwich recipes that are sure to impress your friends and family at your next afternoon gathering. From classic combinations like cucumber and cream cheese to more adventurous pairings like roasted turkey and cranberry, each of these sandwiches is a masterclass in simplicity and sophistication.
Whether you’re hosting a bridal shower, a baby shower, or just a casual get-together with friends, our tea sandwich recipes are sure to delight. And the best part? They’re incredibly easy to make! So go ahead, get creative, and let your imagination run wild as you whip up these dainty delights.
Cucumber and Cream Cheese Tea Sandwiches
A refreshing twist on traditional tea sandwiches, these cucumber and cream cheese creations are perfect for a light and flavorful snack or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 large cucumber, thinly sliced
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 12-15 tea sandwich biscuits (white or whole wheat)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mix together cream cheese, chopped dill, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth.
2. Arrange the cucumber slices on a flat surface.
3. Spread a small amount of the cream cheese mixture onto each tea biscuit half.
4. Top with a cucumber slice and another tea biscuit half to create a sandwich.
5. Serve immediately, or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None required! These sandwiches are best served fresh.
Smoked Salmon and Dill Tea Sandwiches
A refreshing twist on the classic tea sandwich, this recipe combines the smoky flavor of smoked salmon with the brightness of fresh dill.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh dill
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 tea sandwiches (white bread)
– Smoked salmon fillets, thinly sliced
– Butter, softened
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together cream cheese, chopped dill, and lemon juice until well combined.
2. Spread a layer of the cream cheese mixture onto each tea sandwich.
3. Top with a slice or two of smoked salmon, depending on size preference.
4. Dot the top of each sandwich with softened butter.
5. Assemble sandwiches just before serving.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes (prep time only)
Egg Salad with Chives Tea Sandwiches
A classic combination of creamy egg salad and subtle chive flavor, perfectly suited for a delightful tea party or afternoon gathering. This simple yet impressive recipe is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4 large eggs, hard-boiled and peeled
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 12-15 tea sandwich rounds (white or whole wheat)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine eggs, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
2. Stir in chopped chives.
3. Arrange tea sandwich rounds on a serving plate or individual plates.
4. Spoon approximately 1-2 tablespoons of egg salad onto each sandwich round.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time:
– 10 minutes (prep time) + 0 minutes (cooking time)
Curried Chicken Salad Tea Sandwiches
These dainty sandwiches are a perfect blend of flavors and textures, featuring tender chicken salad infused with warm Indian spices. Serve them at your next tea party or gathering for a delightful treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 tea sandwiches worth of white bread (preferably thinly sliced)
– Unsalted butter, softened (for spreading)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine chicken, mayonnaise, curry powder, cilantro, and lemon juice. Mix until smooth.
2. Season the salad with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Spread a small amount of butter on each bread slice.
4. Place a tablespoon or two of the curried chicken salad in the center of each bread slice.
5. Top with another bread slice to form a sandwich.
6. Cut off crusts, if desired, and serve.
Cooking Time: None! Just assemble and enjoy.
Ham and Brie with Apricot Jam Tea Sandwiches
Ham and Brie with Apricot Jam Tea Sandwiches Recipe
Summary: Elevate your afternoon tea game with these delightful sandwiches, combining the savory flavors of ham and brie cheese with the sweet and tangy apricot jam.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of white bread (preferably a crustless or thinly sliced)
– 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup of apricot jam
– 2 tablespoons of honey
– 2 ounces of cooked ham, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons of brie cheese, crumbled
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Spread a layer of apricot jam on the unbuttered side of two bread slices.
4. Top with ham, brie cheese, and a sprinkle of honey.
5. Place the remaining bread slices, buttered side up, on top to create sandwiches.
6. Grill or press for 2-3 minutes, until the bread is lightly toasted and the filling is warm.
7. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes
Watercress and Butter Tea Sandwiches
Elevate your tea party game with these delightful Watercress and Butter Tea Sandwiches, featuring the peppery flavor of watercress and the richness of butter.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh watercress leaves
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 4-6 white bread slices (your preference)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter and chopped watercress leaves until well combined.
2. Arrange bread slices on a flat surface.
3. Spread a small amount of the watercress-butter mixture onto each slice.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Assemble sandwiches by placing two slices together (with the buttered side facing inwards).
6. Cut off crusts, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! These sandwiches are ready to serve as soon as you assemble them.
Enjoy your delicious Watercress and Butter Tea Sandwiches with a steaming cup of tea on a lovely afternoon.
Pimento Cheese Tea Sandwiches
These dainty sandwiches are a staple of Southern tea parties and gatherings. The creamy pimento cheese filling, paired with crispy white bread and fresh lettuce, makes for a delightful treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pimento cheese spread
– 4 slices white bread
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh lettuce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Lay two slices of white bread on a flat surface.
2. Spread one slice with the pimento cheese spread, leaving a 1/4-inch border around the edges.
3. Top with mayonnaise, chopped lettuce, salt, and pepper.
4. Place the second slice of bread on top to create a sandwich.
5. Repeat for remaining slices.
Cooking Time: None! These sandwiches are best served fresh and at room temperature.
Roasted Turkey and Cranberry Tea Sandwiches
Elevate your afternoon tea with these delightful sandwiches, featuring the perfect combination of roasted turkey, sweet cranberries, and crunchy white bread.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked roasted turkey breast, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 2 tablespoons orange marmalade
– 4 slices white bread
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together cranberries and orange marmalade.
3. Butter one side of each bread slice.
4. Assemble the sandwiches by placing a few slices of turkey on one bread slice, followed by a spoonful of the cranberry mixture.
5. Top with another bread slice, buttered side up.
6. Cook in the panini press or grill for 2-3 minutes, until golden brown and crispy.
7. Serve warm, garnished with fresh thyme leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes
Avocado and Radish Tea Sandwiches
A refreshing twist on the classic tea sandwich, this recipe combines creamy avocado with crunchy radishes for a delightful flavor experience.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of white bread
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 2 radishes, thinly sliced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Butter or spread (optional)
Instructions:
1. Lay out the bread slices on a flat surface.
2. Spread a layer of mashed avocado on each slice, leaving a small border around the edges.
3. Arrange the radish slices on top of the avocado, slightly overlapping each other.
4. Squeeze a small amount of lemon juice over the radishes and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Top with another bread slice to form a sandwich.
6. If desired, butter or spread the outside of the sandwiches for added flavor and texture.
7. Cut the sandwiches in half or into quarters, depending on your preference.
Cooking Time: None! These sandwiches are best served fresh and can be assembled just before serving.
Tuna Salad with Lemon Tea Sandwiches
Experience the perfect blend of refreshing flavors with this delightful tuna salad paired with lemon tea sandwiches.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 1/2 cup of mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 slices of white bread
– Lemon tea sandwich spread (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the tuna, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and chopped parsley. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Spread 2 tablespoons of lemon tea sandwich spread on each slice of bread.
4. Spoon the tuna salad on top of the lemon tea spread.
5. Assemble the sandwiches by placing another slice of bread on top (creating a “sandwich” effect).
6. Serve immediately, or store in an airtight container for up to 2 hours.
Cooking Time: None required!
Herbed Goat Cheese and Fig Tea Sandwiches
Elegant and refreshing, these Herbed Goat Cheese and Fig Tea Sandwiches are perfect for a light lunch or afternoon tea.
Ingredients:
– 1 log of goat cheese (chèvre), crumbled
– 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley, chives, and tarragon)
– 1 ripe fig, sliced
– 4 slices of white bread
– 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups of strong brewed tea (such as Earl Grey or English Breakfast)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a toaster or toaster oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together the crumbled goat cheese and chopped herbs.
3. Butter one side of each bread slice.
4. Place a slice of fig on each bread slice, leaving a small border around it.
5. Top with a spoonful of the herbed goat cheese mixture.
6. Assemble the sandwiches by placing another bread slice (buttered side down) on top of the filling.
7. Brew a pot of strong tea and serve alongside.
Cooking Time: None, as this is an assembly-only sandwich.
Roast Beef with Horseradish Cream Tea Sandwiches
Roast Beef with Horseradish Cream Tea Sandwiches: A Classic Combination
For a satisfying and flavorful snack or light meal, look no further than these Roast Beef with Horseradish Cream Tea Sandwiches. Thinly sliced roast beef pairs perfectly with the tangy kick of horseradish cream on soft, buttered bread.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound roast beef (sirloin or prime rib)
– 1/2 cup horseradish cream
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 8-10 slices white bread
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Roast the beef to your desired level of doneness (medium-rare or medium work well). Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing thinly.
3. Spread a tablespoon of butter on each bread slice, then top with a few slices of roast beef and a dollop of horseradish cream.
4. Assemble the sandwiches just before serving to ensure freshness.
5. Cooking time: approximately 1 hour for the roast beef.
Chicken and Walnut Tea Sandwiches
Elevate your afternoon tea with these dainty sandwiches, featuring tender chicken, crunchy walnuts, and creamy mayonnaise. Perfect for a sophisticated gathering or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 4 teaspoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 12-16 small, white sandwich bread slices (about 1 inch square)
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine chicken, walnuts, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice. Mix until smooth.
2. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Spread about 1 tablespoon of the chicken mixture onto each bread slice.
4. Top with another bread slice to create a sandwich.
5. Cut off the crusts and trim the sandwiches to your desired size.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: None required! Assemble and serve at your convenience.
Tomato Basil with Mozzarella Tea Sandwiches
A classic combination of fresh flavors, these tea sandwiches are perfect for a light and refreshing snack or appetizer. Made with ripe tomatoes, fragrant basil, creamy mozzarella, and crusty bread, they’re sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 slices of crusty white bread
– 2 large tomatoes, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Mayonnaise or olive oil for spreading (optional)
Instructions:
1. Lay out the bread slices.
2. Spread a small amount of mayonnaise or drizzle with olive oil on each slice, if desired.
3. Top each slice with a tomato round, followed by a basil leaf and a mozzarella slice.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Assemble the sandwiches and serve immediately.
Cooking Time:
– Prep time: 10 minutes
– Total time: 15 minutes
Hummus and Roasted Red Pepper Tea Sandwiches
Elevate your tea time with these flavorful and refreshing sandwiches, perfect for a light lunch or afternoon pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked chickpeas
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 roasted red pepper, peeled and chopped (see note)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 tea sandwiches rounds (white or whole wheat bread)
– Tea of your choice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Roast the red pepper for about 30 minutes, or until charred and blistered.
2. In a blender, combine chickpeas, garlic, lemon juice, tahini, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
3. Add the roasted red pepper and blend until well combined.
4. Assemble the sandwiches by spreading a layer of hummus on each round, followed by a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs (optional).
5. Serve with your favorite tea and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (including roasting time)
Shrimp Salad with Dill Tea Sandwiches
A refreshing summer treat that combines succulent shrimp with a tangy dill tea-infused sauce, served on delicate sandwiches. Perfect for a light and satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons freshly chopped dill
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 tea sandwiches (white bread, butter, and thinly sliced cucumber)
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine shrimp, mayonnaise, dill, lemon juice, and mustard. Season with salt and pepper.
2. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
3. Assemble sandwiches by spreading butter on white bread, topping with cucumber slices, and finishing with another slice of bread.
4. Serve shrimp salad chilled, accompanied by tea sandwiches and ice cubes.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes ( preparation time: 10-15 minutes)
Blue Cheese and Pear Tea Sandwiches
Experience the perfect combination of creamy blue cheese, sweet pears, and crisp tea sandwiches.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe pear, sliced
– 2 tablespoons blue cheese crumbles
– 4-6 tea sandwich biscuits (white or whole wheat)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Butter each biscuit on one side.
3. Place a slice of pear on the unbuttered side of each biscuit.
4. Top with blue cheese crumbles.
5. Fold the biscuits in half to create a sandwich shape.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Chicken and Mango Chutney Tea Sandwiches
Elevate your afternoon tea game with these Chicken and Mango Chutney Tea Sandwiches, perfect for a refreshing twist on a classic.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 2 tablespoons mango chutney
– 4 slices of white bread (softened)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together the chicken and mango chutney.
3. Spread one side of each bread slice with butter.
4. Top two slices with the chicken-mango mixture and top with the remaining bread slices.
5. Place sandwiches on a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until lightly toasted.
6. Allow to cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Lobster Salad Tea Sandwiches
Elevate your tea party or brunch with these decadent Lobster Salad Tea Sandwiches, featuring succulent lobster meat mixed with creamy dressing and delicate flavors.
Ingredients:
• 1/2 cup cooked lobster meat
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
• 4 tea sandwich rounds (white or whole wheat)
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, gently combine lobster meat, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and chives.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Spread about 1 tablespoon of the lobster salad on each tea sandwich round.
4. Top with another sandwich round to create a neat square shape.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None, as this recipe is served chilled or at room temperature.
Strawberry and Cream Cheese Tea Sandwiches
A sweet and savory twist on traditional tea sandwiches, these bite-sized treats combine fresh strawberries with cream cheese for a delightful flavor combination. Perfect for afternoon tea parties or as a unique snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound white bread, cut into 1-inch squares
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 2 cups sliced strawberries
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mix together the cream cheese and honey until smooth.
2. Arrange the bread squares on a flat surface.
3. Spread a small amount of the cream cheese mixture onto each bread square.
4. Top with sliced strawberries.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: None! Assemble just before serving.
Summary
Indulge in the art of afternoon tea with these elegant tea sandwich recipes. From classic combinations like cucumber and cream cheese to more adventurous pairings such as smoked salmon and dill or roasted turkey and cranberry, there’s something for everyone. These bite-sized treats are perfect for special occasions or everyday delight. With a variety of flavors and ingredients, you’re sure to find the perfect tea sandwich recipe to suit your taste buds. So why not take a break and indulge in some delightful tea sandwiches?