Cucumber & Herb Triple-Deckers

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

• Prep: 15 minutes

• Cook: None

• Total: 15 minutes

Servings

• Makes 12 mini sandwiches (perfect finger food size)

Ingredients

• 1 small cucumber, thinly sliced

• 200 g (7 oz) soft cheese (cream cheese or similar)

• ½ small bunch fresh mint, finely chopped

• Small bunch fresh chives, snipped

• 9 thin slices wholemeal bread (or brown sandwich bread)

• Salt & pepper, to taste

‍ Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Cucumber

• Lay the cucumber slices on kitchen paper to absorb excess moisture. (This prevents soggy sandwiches.)

Step 2: Make the Herb Cream Cheese

• In a food processor or with a hand blender, whizz together:

  • Soft cheese

  • Chopped mint

  • A pinch of salt and black pepper

• Stir in most of the chives, reserving a little for garnish.

Step 3: Assemble the Sandwiches

• Spread the herb cream cheese over 6 slices of bread.

• Reserve 12 cucumber slices for garnish and layer the rest evenly over the cheese mixture.

• Stack the sandwiches:

  • Place one cucumber-topped slice over another.

  • Add a plain slice of bread on top to make a triple-decker.

  • Repeat until you have 3 stacked sandwiches.

Step 4: Cut & Garnish

• With a sharp knife, trim the crusts off each stack.

• Cut each stack into 4 neat squares.

• Top each mini sandwich with a reserved cucumber slice and a sprinkle of chives.

Tips & Variations

• Bread Choice: Use thinly sliced white bread for a more traditional English afternoon tea version.

• Add Zest: A squeeze of lemon juice into the cream cheese adds brightness.

• Extra Creaminess: Mix in a spoonful of Greek yogurt for a lighter texture.

• Make Ahead: Assemble a few hours ahead, cover with damp paper towels, and store in the fridge to keep fresh.

️ Serving Suggestions

• Serve on a tiered cake stand for an authentic tea-time vibe.

• Pair with Earl Grey or herbal tea.

• Include alongside scones, pastries, and mini cakes for a full afternoon tea spread.