10 Tea Party Sandwiches You Need To Try

Tea parties are a wonderful way to gather with friends and family. The food should be elegant, bite-sized, and delicious. The sandwiches are often the star of the table. They need to be small, beautiful, and full of flavor.

These 10 tea party sandwich recipes are all easy to make. Most of them take only 10 to 15 minutes to prepare. You just need fresh bread, quality ingredients, and a sharp knife. Let us get started.

1. Classic Cucumber Tea Sandwich

This is the most famous tea sandwich of all time. It is light, refreshing, and very elegant. The key is to use thin bread and very thin cucumber slices.

Prep time: 10 minutes | Cook time: None | Servings: 8 finger sandwiches

Ingredients:

• 8 slices of white bread (or whole wheat, crusts removed)
• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temperature
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 English cucumber, very thinly sliced
• Salt and white pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, fresh dill, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and white pepper. Stir until smooth.
2. Lay out 4 slices of bread on a clean surface. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over each slice.
3. Pat the cucumber slices dry with a paper towel. This keeps the sandwiches from getting soggy.
4. Arrange the cucumber slices in a single layer on top of the cream cheese on 4 slices. Overlap them slightly.
5. Top with the remaining 4 slices of bread, cream cheese side down.
6. Use a serrated knife to gently cut off the crusts. Then cut each sandwich into 2 rectangles or 4 triangles.
7. Serve immediately, or cover with a damp paper towel and refrigerate for up to 2 hours.

2. Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese Tea Sandwich

This is a classic and elegant tea sandwich. The combination of creamy cheese and smoky salmon is always a hit. A little dill and lemon brighten up the flavors.

Prep time: 10 minutes | Cook time: None | Servings: 8 finger sandwiches

Ingredients:

• 8 slices of dark rye or pumpernickel bread (crusts removed)
• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 2 tablespoons sour cream
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 8 ounces smoked salmon, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup capers, drained and rinsed
• 1/4 red onion, very thinly sliced
• Fresh dill sprigs for garnish (optional)
• Black pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, sour cream, chopped dill, lemon zest, and a pinch of black pepper. Stir until smooth.
2. Lay out 4 slices of bread. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over each slice.
3. Layer the smoked salmon on top of the cream cheese. Fold the salmon slightly to make it look nice.
4. Sprinkle the capers and very thin red onion slices over the salmon.
5. Top with the remaining 4 slices of bread.
6. Gently cut off the crusts. Then cut each sandwich into 2 rectangles or 4 triangles.
7. Garnish each sandwich with a small sprig of fresh dill if desired. Serve immediately.

3. Egg Salad Tea Sandwich

Egg salad is a classic tea sandwich filling. It is creamy, satisfying, and loved by almost everyone. Using fresh herbs makes it feel special.

Prep time: 10 minutes | Cook time: 10 minutes (for boiling eggs) | Servings: 8 finger sandwiches

Ingredients:

• 8 slices of white or whole wheat bread (crusts removed)
• 6 large eggs, hard-boiled and peeled
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons fresh chives, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, finely chopped
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Watercress or fresh spinach leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. To hard-boil the eggs, place them in a saucepan and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil, then turn off the heat, cover, and let sit for 10 minutes. Drain and cool in ice water. Then peel.
2. Chop the hard-boiled eggs into small pieces. You can use a fork or a potato masher.
3. In a bowl, mix the chopped eggs, mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, chives, dill, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
4. Lay out 4 slices of bread. Spread the egg salad evenly over each slice.
5. If you are using watercress or spinach, add a small layer on top of the egg salad.
6. Top with the remaining 4 slices of bread.
7. Gently cut off the crusts. Then cut each sandwich into 2 rectangles or 4 triangles.
8. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours.

4. Chicken Salad Tea Sandwich

Chicken salad is another classic tea sandwich filling. Using cooked chicken breast and fresh herbs makes it light and delicious. Adding grapes or apples gives it a sweet crunch.

Prep time: 15 minutes | Cook time: None (using pre-cooked chicken) | Servings: 8 finger sandwiches

Ingredients:

• 8 slices of white or whole wheat bread (crusts removed)
• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, finely chopped or shredded
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1/4 cup celery, finely diced
• 1/4 cup red grapes, quartered (or 1/4 cup finely diced apple)
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Lettuce leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix the chopped chicken, mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, celery, grapes (or apple), parsley, chives, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
2. Lay out 4 slices of bread. Spread the chicken salad evenly over each slice.
3. If you are using lettuce, add a small leaf on top of the chicken salad.
4. Top with the remaining 4 slices of bread.
5. Gently cut off the crusts. Then cut each sandwich into 2 rectangles or 4 triangles.
6. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours.

5. Cucumber and Herbed Butter Tea Sandwich

This is a lighter and simpler version of the classic cucumber sandwich. Instead of cream cheese, it uses herbed butter. The flavor is fresh and delicate.

Prep time: 10 minutes | Cook time: None | Servings: 8 finger sandwiches

Ingredients:

• 8 slices of white bread (crusts removed)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh chives, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 English cucumber, very thinly sliced
• Salt and white pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, mix the softened butter, fresh dill, parsley, chives, lemon zest, garlic powder, salt, and white pepper. Stir until everything is well combined.
2. Lay out 4 slices of bread. Spread the herbed butter evenly over each slice.
3. Pat the cucumber slices dry with a paper towel.
4. Arrange the cucumber slices in a single layer on top of the herbed butter on 4 slices. Overlap them slightly.
5. Top with the remaining 4 slices of bread.
6. Gently cut off the crusts. Then cut each sandwich into 2 rectangles or 4 triangles.
7. Serve immediately.

6. Roast Beef and Horseradish Tea Sandwich

This sandwich is more savory and bold. It is perfect for guests who prefer a heartier tea sandwich. The horseradish adds a nice kick.

Prep time: 10 minutes | Cook time: None | Servings: 8 finger sandwiches

Ingredients:

• 8 slices of dark rye or pumpernickel bread (crusts removed)
• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 2 tablespoons prepared horseradish (drained)
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped
• 8 ounces thinly sliced roast beef
• 1/2 cup arugula or fresh spinach leaves
• Black pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, prepared horseradish, Dijon mustard, chives, and a pinch of black pepper. Stir until smooth.
2. Lay out 4 slices of bread. Spread the horseradish cream cheese mixture evenly over each slice.
3. Layer the roast beef slices on top of the cream cheese. Fold them slightly to fit.
4. Add a small layer of arugula or spinach on top of the roast beef.
5. Top with the remaining 4 slices of bread.
6. Gently cut off the crusts. Then cut each sandwich into 2 rectangles or 4 triangles.
7. Serve immediately.

7. Curried Chicken Salad Tea Sandwich

Curry powder adds a warm, exotic flavor to chicken salad. This sandwich is a little different from the classic, but it is very popular at tea parties.

Prep time: 15 minutes | Cook time: None (using pre-cooked chicken) | Servings: 8 finger sandwiches

Ingredients:

• 8 slices of white or whole wheat bread (crusts removed)
• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt
• 1 tablespoon mango chutney (optional)
• 1 tablespoon curry powder
• 1/4 cup celery, finely diced
• 1/4 cup golden raisins or dried cranberries
• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1/4 cup sliced almonds (optional)
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix the chopped chicken, mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, mango chutney (if using), curry powder, celery, raisins, cilantro, sliced almonds (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
2. Lay out 4 slices of bread. Spread the curried chicken salad evenly over each slice.
3. Top with the remaining 4 slices of bread.
4. Gently cut off the crusts. Then cut each sandwich into 2 rectangles or 4 triangles.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours.

8. Salmon and Dill Cream Cheese Tea Sandwich

This sandwich is similar to the smoked salmon sandwich but uses fresh cooked salmon. It is creamy, delicate, and very elegant.

Prep time: 10 minutes | Cook time: None (using pre-cooked salmon) | Servings: 8 finger sandwiches

Ingredients:

• 8 slices of white or whole wheat bread (crusts removed)
• 8 ounces cooked salmon, flaked into small pieces
• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 2 tablespoons sour cream
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 2 tablespoons capers, drained and chopped (optional)
• Salt and white pepper to taste
• Fresh dill sprigs for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix the flaked salmon, softened cream cheese, sour cream, fresh dill, lemon juice, lemon zest, capers (if using), salt, and white pepper. Stir until well combined.
2. Lay out 4 slices of bread. Spread the salmon mixture evenly over each slice.
3. Top with the remaining 4 slices of bread.
4. Gently cut off the crusts. Then cut each sandwich into 2 rectangles or 4 triangles.
5. Garnish each sandwich with a small sprig of fresh dill if desired.
6. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours.

9. Pimento Cheese Tea Sandwich

Pimento cheese is a Southern classic. It is tangy, creamy, and a little bit spicy. It is a wonderful and unexpected choice for a tea party sandwich.

Prep time: 10 minutes | Cook time: None | Servings: 8 finger sandwiches

Ingredients:

• 8 slices of white or whole wheat bread (crusts removed)
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 jar (4 oz) diced pimentos, drained
• 2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix the shredded cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, diced pimentos, softened cream cheese, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
2. Lay out 4 slices of bread. Spread the pimento cheese mixture evenly over each slice.
3. Top with the remaining 4 slices of bread.
4. Gently cut off the crusts. Then cut each sandwich into 2 rectangles or 4 triangles.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours.

10. Strawberry and Cream Cheese Tea Sandwich

This is a sweet tea sandwich. It is perfect for the end of the tea party or as a dessert option. Fresh strawberries and sweetened cream cheese are a wonderful pair.

Prep time: 10 minutes | Cook time: None | Servings: 8 finger sandwiches

Ingredients:

• 8 slices of white bread (crusts removed)
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 2 tablespoons honey or powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup fresh strawberries, very thinly sliced
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
• Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, honey (or powdered sugar), and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
2. Lay out 4 slices of bread. Spread the sweetened cream cheese mixture evenly over each slice.
3. Pat the strawberry slices dry with a paper towel.
4. Arrange the strawberry slices in a single layer on top of the cream cheese on 4 slices. Overlap them slightly.
5. If you are using cinnamon, sprinkle a tiny pinch over the strawberries.
6. Top with the remaining 4 slices of bread.
7. Gently cut off the crusts. Then cut each sandwich into 2 rectangles or 4 triangles.
8. Garnish each sandwich with a small mint leaf if desired.
9. Serve immediately. These sandwiches are best enjoyed fresh.

Tips for Perfect Tea Sandwiches

• Use fresh, soft bread. White bread, whole wheat, rye, and pumpernickel all work well. Remove the crusts for a more elegant look.
• Spread fillings evenly. This ensures every bite has the same great taste.
• Cut off the crusts after assembling. Use a serrated knife for clean cuts.
• Cut into small shapes. Triangles, rectangles, or even circles with a cookie cutter are all great options.
• Keep them covered. If you are making them ahead of time, cover the sandwiches with a damp paper towel and plastic wrap. This keeps the bread from drying out.
• Serve within 2 to 3 hours. Tea sandwiches are best when they are fresh.

Storage Tips

Most of these sandwiches can be made up to 2 hours ahead of time. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Cover them with a slightly damp paper towel to keep the bread soft. Do not freeze tea sandwiches, as the texture will be ruined when thawed.

Final Thoughts

Tea party sandwiches are a beautiful and delicious part of any gathering. With these 10 recipes, you have a wonderful variety to choose from. There are classic options like cucumber and egg salad, and more unique choices like pimento cheese and strawberry cream cheese. They are all easy to make and sure to impress your guests. Enjoy your tea party.