English finger sandwich recipes: British tea sandwich

The Best British Tea Sandwich Recipes – Nothing embodies the charm and elegance of a classic afternoon tea quite like traditional English tea sandwiches. These delightful, bite-sized treats are a staple at any proper British tea and offer a wonderful variety of flavors that are perfect for any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a formal tea party or enjoying a casual get-together with friends, these British tea sandwich recipes are sure to impress. 

Each finger sandwich recipe is carefully crafted to offer a balance of flavors and textures that make them not only delicious but also easy to prepare. They’re the perfect little sandwiches for tea time. From the refreshing crunch of cucumber sandwiches to the creamy richness of egg and cress, these traditional English tea sandwiches bring sophistication to your tea table with minimal effort. They are light yet flavorful, making them the perfect accompaniment to a pot of tea or as part of a larger spread of sweet and savory treats.

Best English tea sandwich recipes 

One of the joys of these British tea sandwich recipes is their versatility. Whether you’re new to hosting afternoon tea or an experienced entertainer, learning how to make traditional English afternoon tea sandwiches is simple and fun. You can prepare classic combinations like cucumber with cream cheese or experiment with more unique fillings such as radish with herbed butter or gouda with tomato. The sandwiches can easily be tailored to suit any dietary preferences, ensuring all your guests have something delicious to enjoy.

Easy Finger sandwiches 

Another reason these finger sandwich recipes are so popular is their convenience. You can make the fillings ahead of time and assemble the sandwiches shortly before serving, keeping the preparation stress-free. They’re also perfect for serving in large quantities, making them an ideal choice for parties, bridal showers, or any gathering where you want to offer something light, elegant, and easy to eat. So why not try serving easy finger sandwich recipe at your next event or next party. Whether you’re hosting a baby shower, a bridal shower or a Downtown Abbey style tea party, these bite-sized sandwiches make the perfect finger food.

Favorite tea sandwich recipes 

Whether you’re a fan of the classic cucumber sandwich or looking to try something new, these British tea sandwich recipes are a must-try. They’re not only easy to serve but are also a true taste of tradition that will elevate your afternoon tea experience. We are talking the real English tea rooms experience with classic tea sandwiches. These tiny sandwiches are perfect for your next afternoon tea party! 

In this British tea sandwich recipes we’re covering 

What is a traditional British sandwich?

A traditional British sandwich is often simple yet flavorful, focusing on classic ingredients and balance. Some of the most iconic examples include:

    1.    Cucumber Sandwich: Thinly sliced cucumber with cream cheese or butter, seasoned lightly with salt, and served on soft white or wholemeal bread. These cucumber tea sandwiches are a staple of British afternoon tea.

    2.    Egg and Cress Sandwich: Made with boiled, mashed eggs mixed with mayonnaise and mustard, and topped with fresh cress or watercress. Served on soft bread, this is another afternoon tea favorite.

    3.    Cheese and Pickle Sandwich: Typically uses a sharp cheddar cheese paired with Branston pickle (a tangy, sweet chutney-like spread) on white or wholemeal bread. It’s popular as a lunchtime sandwich and easy to eat in dainty bites. 

These sandwiches reflect British tastes, favoring well-balanced flavors and simple, fresh ingredients. They’re often enjoyed as part of an afternoon tea, picnic, or casual meal.

What sandwiches are served at afternoon tea UK

When it comes to afternoon tea in the UK, it’s all about indulgence and variety, and sandwiches play a key role in this delightful experience. Typically, you’ll find a selection of dainty finger sandwiches that are both delicious and beautifully presented. Here are some classics that you might encounter:

1. Cucumber Sandwiches: These are a quintessential favorite! Made with thinly sliced cucumbers layered between soft white bread and often spread with cream cheese or butter. They’re light, refreshing, and just perfect for a tea setting.

2. Egg and Cress Sandwiches: Another staple, these feature a creamy filling made from hard-boiled eggs mixed with mayonnaise, mustard, and a hint of salt, all topped off with fresh cress. They offer a lovely richness that pairs wonderfully with tea.

3. Brie and Cranberry Sandwiches: This sweet and savory combination is a lovely twist, featuring creamy brie paired with tart cranberry sauce. It’s a bit different from the more traditional fillings but adds a nice variety to the spread. These savory finger sandwiches are ideal with a glass of champagne for a high noon tea party. 

Afternoon tea is not just about the food; it’s about the experience too. The sandwiches are usually cut into neat triangles or fingers, making them easy to handle while sipping on a nice cup of tea. So, whether you prefer something light like cucumber or something more indulgent like Brie, there’s an English afternoon tea sandwich to suit everyone’s taste at a traditional afternoon tea!

Finger sandwich recipe Ingredients: what is a tea sandwich made of

Here’s a breakdown of the ingredients for 5 of my  favorite tea sandwich recipes. The best thing about these savory finger sandwiches is that each sandwich features one of my favourite sandwich fillings. Just use your favorite sandwich bread and these delicious sandwich fillings will make the elegant finger sandwiches a hit!

1. Egg and Cress Finger Sandwich

This is a classic fillings recipe for English finger sandwiches. Hard boiled eggs make the foundation of these delicious egg salad sandwiches.

– Boiled Eggs: Provide a rich, creamy texture with a mild flavor. The yolks add a savory depth that balances the softness of the whites.

– Mayonnaise: Adds creaminess and richness, binding the egg mixture together for a smooth, spreadable texture.

– Chives: Imparts a mild onion flavor that adds brightness and subtle sharpness to the sandwich.

– Mustard: Adds a slight tangy and spicy kick, enhancing the flavor without overpowering the egg mixture.

– Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning, bringing out the natural flavors of the egg and mayonnaise mixture.

– Fresh Cress or Watercress: Adds a peppery crunch and freshness that contrasts beautifully with the creamy egg filling, providing both texture and a hint of bitternes to the egg salad tea sandwiches.

2. Cucumber Finger Sandwich

This classic finger sandwich captures the essence of the beauty of afternoon tea. With crunchy English cucumbers and herbed cream cheese it’s a sandwich that always gets a 5 star rating!

– Cream Cheese: Soft and creamy, the cream cheese serves as a delicate, tangy base that complements the freshness of the cucumber. It also prevents the bread from becoming soggy.

– Fresh Chives: Adds a mild onion flavor that cuts through the richness of the cream cheese, giving the sandwich a light, herby note.

– Fresh Dill: Infuses the sandwich with a fresh, slightly citrusy flavor that pairs beautifully with cucumber.

– Cucumber: The star of the sandwich, cucumber provides a crisp, refreshing crunch with a clean, mild taste that pairs perfectly with the creaminess of the cheese.

– Salt: A pinch of salt helps to bring out the flavor of the cucumber, enhancing its natural sweetness and texture.

3. Radish and Herbed Butter Finger Sandwich

– Radishes: Bring a sharp, peppery bite and a fresh crunch to the sandwich, balancing the richness of the butter.

– Unsalted Butter: The butter is a smooth and creamy base that melds well with the radishes. Using unsalted butter allows for better control of seasoning.

– Parsley: Adds a subtle earthy flavor and freshness to the butter, making it more fragrant.

– Chives: Provides a mild, onion-like flavor that adds sharpness without overpowering the radishes.

– Lemon Zest: Offers a touch of brightness and citrusy zing, which enhances the overall flavor of the sandwich.

– Salt and Pepper: Essential for balancing the flavors and bringing out the delicate taste of the butter and herbs.

4. Brie and Apple Finger Sandwich

– Brie: Soft and creamy, Brie provides a rich, buttery flavor with a slightly earthy taste. Its texture is perfect for a smooth, melt-in-your-mouth sandwich.

– Apple: Thinly sliced apple adds sweetness and a crisp texture that contrasts with the soft Brie. It also brings a refreshing fruity note to the sandwich.

– Honey: Drizzled over the Brie, honey adds a touch of sweetness that complements the mild tang of the cheese and the tartness of the apple.

– Dijon Mustard: Adds a subtle kick of spice and tang, balancing the sweetness of the apple and honey, and giving the sandwich depth of flavor.

– Arugula (Optional): For a peppery, fresh bite that cuts through the richness of the Brie and adds an additional layer of texture.

5. Gouda and Tomato Finger Sandwich

– Gouda Cheese: A semi-soft cheese with a mild, nutty flavor and smooth texture. The Gouda adds a rich, creamy element to the sandwich while melting slightly to complement the tomato.

– Tomato: Juicy and slightly acidic, tomatoes provide freshness and a natural sweetness, balancing the richness of the cheese.

– Mayonnaise: Adds a creamy, slightly tangy layer that enhances the overall texture and flavor of the sandwich.

– Dijon Mustard: Adds a tangy, mildly spicy flavor that pairs well with both the cheese and tomato, cutting through the richness.

– Basil (Optional): Fresh basil leaves offer a fragrant, sweet, and slightly peppery note that complements the cheese and tomato beautifully.

Each ingredient in these British finger sandwiches plays a crucial role in creating a balanced, delicious bite. Whether it’s the richness of the cheese, the freshness of herbs, or the crisp crunch of vegetables, these components work together to offer a delightful variety of flavors and textures in every sandwich.

Best English tea sandwiches tips and tricks 

Tips for Preparing and Serving Tea Sandwiches

    Preserving Freshness: All of these sandwiches can stay fresh for several hours if properly covered to prevent the bread from drying out. To keep the bread moist, spread a thin layer of butter on the inside of the slices before adding the fillings. This not only adds flavor but also acts as a barrier, helping to prevent moisture from the fillings from making the bread soggy.

    Preparing Fillings Ahead of Time: If you wish to make your egg or chicken fillings in advance, simply prepare them, cover tightly, and store them in the refrigerator. Assemble the sandwiches just before serving to maintain the best texture and flavor.

    Try Different Breads: For a unique twist, consider swapping out traditional bread for pumpernickel. Its rich, slightly sweet flavor can add an interesting depth to your sandwiches and pairs wonderfully with many fillings.

    Simplicity is Key: If the thought of preparing multiple sandwiches feels overwhelming, don’t stress! You can easily choose just one or two varieties to serve alongside some tea and a slice of cake. Your guests will appreciate the relaxed atmosphere, and it allows you to enjoy the occasion without feeling rushed or flustered.

How to Keep Tea Sandwiches Fresh

    Covering After Assembly: After you’ve assembled your sandwiches, wrap them in plastic wrap to protect them from drying out. It’s best to place them on your serving tray right before serving, as exposed bread can dry out quickly, compromising the quality of your sandwiches.

Best Bread Choices for Tea Sandwiches

    Bread Selection: For most tea sandwiches, soft white bread is the classic choice, providing a tender texture that complements various fillings. However, if you’re using stronger flavors, like smoked salmon, a robust bread such as pumpernickel works beautifully. Whole wheat bread is also a great option for a healthier twist. Just remember, freshness is crucial—always use freshly baked bread and avoid anything that feels stale or dry.

With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating delightful tea sandwiches that will impress your guests!

English tea finger sandwich recipe: 5 best Traditional English tea sandwiches 

Bring the elegance and charm of a classic British afternoon tea to your table with these 5 best traditional English tea finger sandwiches. Perfect for any gathering, these delicate sandwiches are light, flavorful, and beautifully presented, making them a staple at any tea party. From the refreshing crunch of cucumber to the savory richness of egg and cress, each sandwich offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures. Whether you’re hosting an afternoon tea or simply enjoying a light snack, these sandwiches are the perfect bite-sized treat that captures the essence of English tradition. Easy to prepare, they are sure to impress your guests with their timeless appeal and delicious taste.

5 Afternoon tea sandwich fillings ingredients:

Classic Cucumber finger sandwich recipe

Cucumber Finger Sandwiches ingredients:

• 6 slices bread: Approximately 180g (depending on the type of bread)
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened: About 115g
• Fresh chives (about 5 chives): Roughly 2g, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon chopped dill: Approximately 3g
• 1/2 cucumber (15 cm long): About 100-120g, thinly sliced
• Pinch of salt: To taste
• Egg salad tea sandwich recipe (egg salad with cress)

Egg and Cress Finger Sandwiches

• 6 slices bread: Approximately 180g (depending on the type of bread)
• 4 boiled eggs: About 200g peeled
• 3 tbsp mayonnaise: Approximately 45g
• 1 tsp chopped fresh chives: About 1g
• Pinch of salt and pepper: To taste
• 1/2 tsp mustard: Around 2.5g
• Fresh cress or watercress: A small handful, around 10-15g

Radish and Herbed Butter Tea Sandwich Ingredients:

• 6 slices white or whole wheat bread (about 180g)
• 6-8 radishes, thinly sliced (about 100g)
• 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped (3g)
• 1 tablespoon fresh chives, finely chopped (3g)
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest (about 2g)
• Pinch of salt and pepper
• Small handful of microgreens (optional)

Brie and Apple Tea Sandwich Ingredients:

• 6 slices whole grain or sourdough bread (about 180g)
• 4 oz (115g) Brie cheese, thinly sliced
• 1 small apple, thinly sliced (about 100g)
• 1 tablespoon honey (about 15g)
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (about 15g)
• A few fresh arugula leaves (optional)
• Lemon juice (to prevent apples from browning)

Gouda Cheese and Tomato Tea Sandwich Ingredients:

• 6 slices multigrain or white bread (about 180g)
• 4 oz (115g) Gouda cheese, thinly sliced
• 1 medium tomato, thinly sliced (about 100g)
• 1 tablespoon mayonnaise (about 15g)
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (about 5g)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• A few basil leaves (optional)

How to make traditional English afternoon tea sandwiches: best 5 Afternoon tea sandwich fillings 

Cucumber Finger Sandwiches Instructions:

    1.    Prepare the Cream Cheese Spread:

•     In a small bowl, mix the softened cream cheese with the chopped chives, dill, and a pinch of salt. Stir until the herbs are evenly distributed and the mixture is smooth.

    2.    Prepare the Cucumber:

•     Thinly slice the cucumber using a knife or a mandoline for even slices. If desired, lightly sprinkle the cucumber slices with a pinch of salt to enhance the flavor.

    3.    Assemble the Sandwiches:

•     Lay out the bread slices. Spread a generous layer of the cream cheese mixture on one side of each slice of bread.

•     Evenly layer the cucumber slices over the cream cheese on 3 of the bread slices.

    4.    Form the Sandwiches:

•     Place the remaining bread slices, cream cheese-side down, on top of the cucumber-covered slices to form sandwiches.

    5.    Trim and Cut:

•     Using a sharp knife, trim the crusts from each sandwich to create neat, uniform edges.

•     Cut each sandwich into 3 finger-sized pieces or diagonally into triangles, depending on your preference.

    6.    Serve:

•     Arrange the cucumber finger sandwiches on a serving platter and serve immediately. If preparing ahead of time, cover them with a damp paper towel and plastic wrap to keep them fresh, and refrigerate until serving.

These classic Cucumber Finger Sandwiches are a staple of traditional English tea, offering a fresh, light, and flavorful bite perfect for any afternoon gathering.

Egg and Cress Finger Sandwiches Instructions:

    1.    Prepare the Egg Filling:

•     In a medium bowl, mash the chopped boiled eggs with a fork until slightly chunky.

•     Add the mayonnaise, mustard, chopped chives, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined and creamy.

    2.    Prepare the Bread:

•     Lay out the slices of bread on a clean surface. You can leave the crusts on for now (you’ll trim them later).

    3.    Assemble the Sandwiches:

•     Spread a generous layer of the egg mixture evenly over 3 slices of bread.

•     Place a small handful of fresh cress or watercress on top of the egg mixture.

•     Top with the remaining 3 slices of bread to form sandwiches.

    4.    Trim and Cut:

•     Using a sharp knife, carefully trim the crusts off each sandwich to create neat edges.

•     Cut each sandwich into 3 even fingers or into triangles, depending on your preference.

    5.    Serve:

•     Arrange the sandwiches on a serving plate and serve immediately. If you’re preparing them in advance, cover them with a damp paper towel and plastic wrap to keep the bread soft, then refrigerate until ready to serve.

These Egg and Cress Finger Sandwiches are a classic British tea sandwich—delicious, light, and perfect for an afternoon tea or any special occasion.

Radish and Herbed Butter Tea Sandwich Instructions:

• In a small bowl, mix the softened butter, parsley, chives, lemon zest, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.
• Spread a thin layer of the herbed butter on each slice of bread.
• Arrange the thinly sliced radishes evenly over half the slices of bread.
• Optionally, top the radishes with a few microgreens for added freshness.
• Place the remaining bread slices, butter-side down, on top to form sandwiches.
• Trim the crusts and cut each sandwich into fingers or triangles. Serve immediately or store in the fridge for up to a few hours before serving.

Brie and Apple Tea Sandwich Instructions:

• In a small bowl, mix the honey and Dijon mustard together.
• Spread a thin layer of the honey-mustard mixture on one side of each bread slice.
• Arrange the Brie slices evenly on half of the bread slices.
• Toss the thinly sliced apples in a little lemon juice to prevent browning, then layer them over the Brie. Optionally, add a few arugula leaves for a peppery bite.
• Top with the remaining bread slices, spread-side down, to form sandwiches.
• Trim the crusts and cut into fingers or triangles. Serve fresh for the best texture.

Gouda Cheese and Tomato Tea Sandwich Instructions:

• In a small bowl, mix the mayonnaise and Dijon mustard together.
• Spread the mixture on one side of each slice of bread.
• Layer the Gouda cheese and tomato slices on half of the bread slices. Season the tomatoes lightly with salt and pepper.
• Optionally, add a few fresh basil leaves for extra flavor.
• Place the remaining bread slices on top to form sandwiches.
• Trim the crusts and cut into fingers or triangles. Enjoy immediately for the best flavor and texture.

What to serve with British tea sandwiches

When hosting a British afternoon tea featuring tea sandwiches, you’ll want to create a well-rounded experience that complements the delicate flavors of the sandwiches. Here are some delightful ideas to consider:

1. Scones

   – Classic Scones: Serve warm scones with clotted cream and strawberry jam. You might also consider variations like fruit scones with raisins or currants.

   – Savory Scones: Cheese scones or herb-infused scones can add an interesting twist.

2. Pastries and Cakes

   – Victoria Sponge Cake: A light sponge cake filled with jam and whipped cream, perfect for a sweet touch.

   – Lemon Drizzle Cake: This zesty cake is refreshing and pairs well with tea.

   – Mini Éclairs or Profiteroles: Cream-filled pastries that are easy to pick up and enjoy.

3. Sweet Treats

   – Shortbread Cookies: Buttery and crumbly, these classic cookies are always a hit.

   – Macarons: These colorful French treats can add elegance and variety to your tea spread.

   – Traybakes: Squares of chocolate brownie, flapjacks, or lemon bars are easy to cut and serve.

4. Fresh Fruits

   – Fruit Platter: Offer a selection of fresh fruits like strawberries, raspberries, and melon for a refreshing contrast to the sandwiches.

   – Fruit Skewers: Make it fun by threading pieces of fruit onto skewers for easy serving.

5. Savory Snacks

   – Cheese Platter: Include a variety of cheeses like cheddar, brie, and Stilton, accompanied by some crackers and grapes.

   – Olives and Pickles: A selection of marinated olives and pickles can provide a savory bite alongside the sweet treats.

6. Tea Selection

   – Assorted Teas: Offer a variety of teas, such as Earl Grey, English Breakfast, and herbal options, allowing guests to choose their favorites.

   – Iced Tea: For a refreshing alternative, serve iced tea with lemon and mint.

More serving ideas

7. Drinks

   – Sparkling Water: A light, refreshing option that complements the flavors of the food.

   – Champagne or Prosecco: For a touch of elegance, consider serving bubbly, which pairs beautifully with the savory and sweet offerings.

8. Presentation

   – Tiered Cake Stand: Use a tiered cake stand to display sandwiches, scones, and pastries, creating an attractive centerpiece.

   – Vintage Tea Set: Serve tea in a lovely vintage tea set to enhance the traditional feel of the afternoon tea experience.

With these ideas, you’ll create a delightful afternoon tea that beautifully complements your British tea sandwiches and leaves your guests satisfied and impressed!

Quick Guide: How to Meal Prep High Tea Sandwiches

1. Planning Your Sandwiches:

   – Choose a variety of fillings (e.g., cucumber, egg and cress, cheese and apple) to provide a balanced selection.

   – Consider dietary preferences and any allergies among your guests.

2. Preparing the Ingredients:

   – Bread: Use fresh, soft bread (white, wholemeal, or rye) and cut it into even slices.

   – Fillings: Prepare your fillings a day in advance. Mix egg salad, chop cucumbers, and slice smoked salmon.

   – Herbs and Seasonings: Have fresh herbs ready (like chives or dill) to enhance flavors.

3. Assembling the Sandwiches:

   – Spread your chosen fillings evenly on the bread slices.

   – Avoid overfilling to keep the sandwiches neat.

   – Top with another slice of bread and gently press down.

4. Cutting and Storing:

   – Cut sandwiches into fingers or triangles for easy serving.

   – Place them in an airtight container lined with a damp paper towel to maintain freshness.

   – If making ahead, store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours.

Storing British Sandwiches

1. Airtight Containers:

   – Use airtight containers to keep sandwiches fresh and prevent them from drying out. 

2. Use Damp Paper Towels:

   – Place a damp paper towel over the sandwiches inside the container to maintain moisture.

3. Refrigeration:

   – Store the sandwiches in the refrigerator until ready to serve. They are best consumed within 24 hours to ensure freshness.

4. Avoid Freezing:

   – It’s not recommended to freeze sandwiches, as this can alter the texture and flavor of the bread and fillings.

Serving British Tea Sandwich Recipes

1. Presentation:

   – Arrange the sandwiches on a tiered stand or a beautiful platter for an elegant look.

   – Garnish with fresh herbs or edible flowers for added color.

2. Accompaniments:

   – Serve with a selection of teas, such as Earl Grey, English Breakfast, or herbal options.

   – Consider adding small treats like scones and pastries alongside the sandwiches for a complete high tea experience.

3. Eating Etiquette:

   – Encourage guests to use their hands to enjoy the sandwiches, as they are meant to be bite-sized and easy to handle.

   – Provide small plates and napkins for guests to use while they enjoy their tea and sandwiches.

4. Timing:

   – Serve the sandwiches soon after preparing them or shortly after removing them from the refrigerator to ensure they are at their best. 

Following these tips will ensure a successful and delightful high tea experience with beautifully prepared British sandwiches!

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British tea sandwich recipes FAQs

British tea sandwich substitutions, fillings and more FAQs

Tea Sandwich storage FAQs

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