When it comes to finger foods, few options are as elegant and delicious as cucumber cream cheese finger sandwiches. These bite-sized treats are perfect for tea parties, baby showers, and other special occasions. In this article, we’ll show you how to make cucumber cream cheese finger sandwiches that are sure to impress your guests.
The History of Finger Sandwiches
Finger sandwiches have a long history that dates back to the 18th century in England. They were originally served at tea parties and were designed to be small, dainty sandwiches that could be easily picked up and eaten with one’s fingers. The traditional filling for finger sandwiches was cucumber, which was a popular ingredient among the upper class.
Over time, finger sandwiches evolved to include a variety of fillings, such as egg salad, ham, and cheese. However, cucumber remains a classic choice and is still a popular filling for finger sandwiches today.
Ingredients and Equipment Needed
To make cucumber cream cheese finger sandwiches, you’ll need the following ingredients and equipment:
Ingredients:
- 1 large cucumber, peeled and thinly sliced
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 loaf of white bread (preferably a crustless bread)
- Unsalted butter, softened
Equipment:
- A sharp knife for slicing the cucumber
- A cutting board for slicing the cucumber
- A mixing bowl for combining the cream cheese and herbs
- A spoon for spreading the cream cheese mixture on the bread
- A pastry brush for applying butter to the bread
- A sharp knife for cutting the sandwiches
Choosing the Right Bread
The bread you choose for your finger sandwiches is crucial. You want a bread that is soft and easy to bite into, but not so soft that it falls apart. A crustless white bread is a good choice, as it is soft and easy to work with.
When selecting a bread, look for one that is made with high-quality ingredients and has a fine texture. Avoid breads that are too dense or heavy, as they can be difficult to work with.
Preparing the Cucumber
To prepare the cucumber, start by peeling it using a vegetable peeler. Then, slice the cucumber into thin rounds using a sharp knife. You want the slices to be thin so that they are easy to bite into.
Once you have sliced the cucumber, place the slices on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess moisture. This will help prevent the bread from becoming soggy.
Making the Cream Cheese Mixture
To make the cream cheese mixture, combine the softened cream cheese, chopped fresh dill, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper in a mixing bowl. Mix the ingredients together until they are well combined and smooth.
Taste the cream cheese mixture and adjust the seasoning as needed. You can add more lemon juice, salt, or pepper to taste.
Assembling the Sandwiches
To assemble the sandwiches, start by spreading a small amount of the cream cheese mixture on one slice of bread. Then, place a few slices of cucumber on top of the cream cheese mixture.
Place another slice of bread on top of the cucumber to complete the sandwich. Repeat this process until all of the bread and cucumber slices have been used.
Tips for Assembling the Sandwiches
Here are a few tips to keep in mind when assembling the sandwiches:
- Make sure to spread a thin layer of cream cheese mixture on each slice of bread. This will help prevent the bread from becoming too soggy.
- Use a light touch when placing the cucumber slices on top of the cream cheese mixture. You don’t want to press down too hard and cause the bread to become soggy.
- Make sure to place the sandwiches on a flat surface as you assemble them. This will help prevent the sandwiches from becoming misshapen.
Cutting the Sandwiches
Once you have assembled the sandwiches, it’s time to cut them. Use a sharp knife to cut the sandwiches into quarters or sixths, depending on the size you prefer.
When cutting the sandwiches, make sure to cut them gently and evenly. You don’t want to apply too much pressure and cause the bread to tear.
Tips for Cutting the Sandwiches
Here are a few tips to keep in mind when cutting the sandwiches:
- Use a sharp knife to cut the sandwiches. A dull knife can cause the bread to tear and the sandwiches to become misshapen.
- Cut the sandwiches gently and evenly. Apply gentle pressure and use a smooth, even motion to cut the sandwiches.
- Cut the sandwiches just before serving. This will help prevent the bread from becoming soggy and the sandwiches from becoming stale.
Serving and Storing the Sandwiches
Once you have cut the sandwiches, it’s time to serve them. You can serve the sandwiches on their own or as part of a larger tea party or special occasion.
If you’re not serving the sandwiches immediately, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Make sure to keep the sandwiches away from direct sunlight and heat, as this can cause the bread to become soggy and the sandwiches to become stale.
Tips for Serving the Sandwiches
Here are a few tips to keep in mind when serving the sandwiches:
- Serve the sandwiches on a decorative platter or tiered server. This will help add to the elegance and sophistication of the occasion.
- Offer a variety of teas or other beverages to accompany the sandwiches. This will help add to the overall ambiance and enjoyment of the occasion.
- Consider adding a few garnishes, such as fresh herbs or edible flowers, to the sandwiches. This will help add a touch of elegance and sophistication to the occasion.
Conclusion
Cucumber cream cheese finger sandwiches are a delicious and elegant treat that are perfect for tea parties, baby showers, and other special occasions. By following the tips and techniques outlined in this article, you can create beautiful and delicious sandwiches that are sure to impress your guests.
Remember to choose the right bread, prepare the cucumber carefully, and assemble the sandwiches with care. With a little practice and patience, you’ll be creating beautiful and delicious cucumber cream cheese finger sandwiches in no time.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cucumber | 1 large |
| Cream cheese | 8 ounces |
| Chopped fresh dill | 1 tablespoon |
| Lemon juice | 1 tablespoon |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Black pepper | 1/4 teaspoon |
| White bread | 1 loaf |
| Unsalted butter | Softened |
By following the recipe and tips outlined in this article, you’ll be able to create delicious and elegant cucumber cream cheese finger sandwiches that are sure to impress your guests.
What is the best type of cucumber to use for cucumber cream cheese finger sandwiches?
The best type of cucumber to use for cucumber cream cheese finger sandwiches is the English or hothouse cucumber. This variety of cucumber has a thinner skin and a sweeter, milder flavor than other types of cucumbers. It is also typically longer and more slender, making it easier to slice into thin rounds.
Using English or hothouse cucumbers will also help to reduce the amount of excess moisture in the sandwiches, which can make them soggy and unappetizing. Other types of cucumbers, such as pickling cucumbers or slicing cucumbers, may have a thicker skin and a more bitter flavor, which can overpower the other ingredients in the sandwiches.
How do I prevent the cream cheese from becoming too runny?
To prevent the cream cheese from becoming too runny, it’s essential to use a high-quality cream cheese that is designed for spreading. Look for a cream cheese that has a thick and creamy texture, and avoid using low-fat or non-fat cream cheese, as these can be too soft and runny.
You can also chill the cream cheese in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before using it to help firm it up. Additionally, be careful not to overmix the cream cheese with the other ingredients, as this can cause it to become too soft and runny. Mix the ingredients just until they are combined, and then stop mixing.
What type of bread is best for cucumber cream cheese finger sandwiches?
The best type of bread for cucumber cream cheese finger sandwiches is a white bread that is soft and lightly textured. Look for a bread that is made with high-quality ingredients and has a delicate flavor that won’t overpower the other ingredients in the sandwiches.
Some good options for bread include white sandwich bread, baguette slices, or even thinly sliced crostini. Avoid using whole wheat bread or bread with nuts or seeds, as these can be too dense and heavy for the delicate flavors of the cucumber and cream cheese.
How do I assemble the finger sandwiches?
To assemble the finger sandwiches, start by spreading a small amount of cream cheese on each slice of bread. Then, top the cream cheese with a slice or two of cucumber, depending on the size of the cucumber slices. You can also add some chopped fresh herbs, such as dill or chives, on top of the cucumber for extra flavor.
Once you have assembled the sandwiches, cut off the crusts and cut the sandwiches into quarters or sixths, depending on the size you prefer. You can also cut the sandwiches into shapes using a cookie cutter for a more elegant presentation.
Can I make the finger sandwiches ahead of time?
While it’s possible to make the finger sandwiches ahead of time, it’s not recommended. The sandwiches are best served fresh, as the bread can become soggy and the cream cheese can become too runny if they are assembled too far in advance.
If you need to make the sandwiches ahead of time, you can prepare the ingredients and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble the sandwiches. However, it’s best to assemble the sandwiches just before serving to ensure they are fresh and delicious.
How do I store leftover finger sandwiches?
If you have leftover finger sandwiches, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. However, keep in mind that the sandwiches are best served fresh, and the bread may become soggy if they are stored for too long.
To store the sandwiches, place them in a single layer in an airtight container and cover them with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Keep the container refrigerated at a temperature of 40°F (4°C) or below.
Can I customize the finger sandwiches with other ingredients?
Yes, you can customize the finger sandwiches with other ingredients to suit your tastes. Some ideas for customization include adding sliced meats, such as ham or turkey, or adding chopped vegetables, such as bell peppers or sprouts.
You can also use different types of cheese, such as goat cheese or feta cheese, instead of cream cheese. Additionally, you can add some spice to the sandwiches by using a flavored cream cheese or adding some chopped jalapeños or hot sauce.