Tea Sandwiches Recipe (Traditional British Afternoon Tea)

Tea sandwiches, also known as traditional British afternoon tea sandwiches, are a cornerstone of the iconic English tea-time tradition. These delicate finger sandwiches are appreciated for their light texture, elegant presentation, and variety of refined flavors.

Served in luxury hotels, at garden parties, or during festive gatherings, tea sandwiches perfectly represent the charm and sophistication of British cuisine. Whether you’re hosting an afternoon tea or simply looking for an easy and elegant snack idea, this easy tea sandwiches recipe will guide you step by step.

👉 View the French version of this recipe: Tea sandwiches

⏱ Prep time: 30 minutes

👥 Servings: 4

🍽 Course: Afternoon tea

Ingredients

For the sandwiches

White sandwich bread
Whole wheat sandwich bread
Butter

Cucumber Tea Sandwiches

1/2 cucumber
Cream cheese (such as Saint-Môret)
1 shallot
Fresh chives

Egg, Bacon & Spinach Tea Sandwiches

2 hard-boiled eggs
5 thin slices of bacon
1 handful of fresh spinach
Homemade mayonnaise

Paprika Chicken Tea Sandwiches

1 chicken breast
Homemade mayonnaise
Paprika
Fresh chives

Chicken, Mimolette & Apple Tea Sandwiches

4 slices of smoked chicken
3 slices of mimolette cheese
1 apple
Homemade mayonnaise

Preparation

Cucumber Tea Sandwiches

Peel and thinly slice the cucumber.
Finely chop the shallot.
In a bowl, mix the cream cheese, shallot, and chives.
Spread the mixture onto two slices of bread.
Add the cucumber slices.
Close the sandwich and press gently.

Egg, Bacon & Spinach Tea Sandwiches

Finely chop the hard-boiled eggs.
Wash and chop the spinach.
Cook the bacon in a dry pan until crispy.
Let it cool, then chop into small pieces.
Mix eggs, spinach, bacon, and mayonnaise.
Lightly butter the bread.
Spread the mixture and close the sandwich.

Paprika Chicken Tea Sandwiches

Steam the chicken breast for about 15 minutes.
Shred the chicken using a fork.
Mix with mayonnaise, paprika, and chives.
Butter the bread slices.
Spread the filling and close the sandwich.

Chicken, Mimolette & Apple Tea Sandwiches

Peel and thinly slice the apple.
Butter the bread slices.
Layer smoked chicken, mimolette, and apple slices.
Close the sandwich.

Assembly

Remove the crusts for a traditional look
Cut each sandwich into small squares or triangles
Arrange neatly on a serving platter

Tips for Perfect Tea Sandwiches

Use very fresh bread for the best texture
Slice ingredients thinly for a refined result
Serve immediately or keep refrigerated with a damp cloth
Mix classic and modern fillings for variety

Tea sandwiches are a must-have for any traditional afternoon tea. These easy finger sandwiches combine elegance, simplicity, and delicious flavors, making them perfect for entertaining guests or enjoying a refined snack at home. These traditional English tea sandwiches, also known as finger sandwiches, are perfect for recreating an authentic afternoon tea experience at home.