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Creamy Benedictine Spread Tea Sandwiches

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These creamy Benedictine spread tea sandwiches are a Southern classic, combining smooth cream cheese, grated cucumber, and fresh herbs for an elegant and refreshing snack perfect for tea parties and gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 medium English cucumber, peeled and grated
  • Pinch of salt
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
  • 1 teaspoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons fresh dill or chives, finely chopped
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 12 slices white sandwich bread, crusts removed (soft, thin-sliced; whole wheat or gluten-free optional)

Instructions

  1. Peel the English cucumber and grate it finely. Place the grated cucumber in a fine mesh strainer or wrap it in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much liquid as possible (about 5 minutes).
  2. Transfer the drained cucumber to a bowl and sprinkle with a pinch of salt. Let it sit for 5 minutes to draw out any remaining water, then squeeze again if needed.
  3. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and mayonnaise. Beat together until smooth and creamy. Add lemon juice and freshly ground black pepper, mixing well.
  4. Fold in the finely chopped fresh dill (or chives) and the drained cucumber. Stir gently until evenly combined. Taste and adjust salt or lemon juice if needed.
  5. Lay out the bread slices on a cutting board. Trim off the crusts carefully using a sharp knife. Spread about 1 to 1 1/2 tablespoons of the Benedictine spread evenly over each slice.
  6. Place another slice of bread on top of each spread-covered slice, pressing gently to seal. Cut each sandwich into 2 or 3 small rectangles or triangles, as preferred.
  7. Cover the sandwiches with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld and bread to firm up.

Notes

Drain the grated cucumber thoroughly to prevent watery spread and soggy bread. Soften cream cheese ahead of time for easier mixing. Refrigerate sandwiches before serving for best texture. Variations include using chives, tarragon, or mint instead of dill, and swapping mayonnaise for Greek yogurt or dairy-free alternatives.

Nutrition

Keywords: Benedictine spread, tea sandwiches, cucumber spread, cream cheese sandwich, elegant snack, Southern recipe, finger food, garden party, bridal shower

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