By Sarah Cook – Good Food Magazine, May 2012
These delicate cucumber sandwiches get a modern twist with mint and chive cream cheese, stacked into triple-deckers for a fancy presentation. Perfect for afternoon tea, bridal showers, garden parties, or a light summer snack.
Prep Time
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Prep: 15 minutes
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Cook: None
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Total: 15 minutes
Servings
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Makes 12 mini sandwiches (perfect finger food size)
Ingredients
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1 small cucumber, thinly sliced
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200 g (7 oz) soft cheese (cream cheese or similar)
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½ small bunch fresh mint, finely chopped
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Small bunch fresh chives, snipped
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9 thin slices wholemeal bread (or brown sandwich bread)
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Salt & pepper, to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Cucumber
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Lay the cucumber slices on kitchen paper to absorb excess moisture. (This prevents soggy sandwiches.)
Step 2: Make the Herb Cream Cheese
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In a food processor or with a hand blender, whizz together:
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Soft cheese
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Chopped mint
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A pinch of salt and black pepper
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Stir in most of the chives, reserving a little for garnish.
Step 3: Assemble the Sandwiches
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Spread the herb cream cheese over 6 slices of bread.
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Reserve 12 cucumber slices for garnish and layer the rest evenly over the cheese mixture.
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Stack the sandwiches:
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Place one cucumber-topped slice over another.
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Add a plain slice of bread on top to make a triple-decker.
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Repeat until you have 3 stacked sandwiches.
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Step 4: Cut & Garnish
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With a sharp knife, trim the crusts off each stack.
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Cut each stack into 4 neat squares.
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Top each mini sandwich with a reserved cucumber slice and a sprinkle of chives.
Tips & Variations
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Bread Choice: Use thinly sliced white bread for a more traditional English afternoon tea version.
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Add Zest: A squeeze of lemon juice into the cream cheese adds brightness.
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Extra Creaminess: Mix in a spoonful of Greek yogurt for a lighter texture.
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Make Ahead: Assemble a few hours ahead, cover with damp paper towels, and store in the fridge to keep fresh.
️ Serving Suggestions
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Serve on a tiered cake stand for an authentic tea-time vibe.
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Pair with Earl Grey or herbal tea.
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Include alongside scones, pastries, and mini cakes for a full afternoon tea spread.