These classic high tea sandwiches are elegant, flavorful, and perfect for entertaining. Whether you’re hosting a high tea party, brunch, or looking for a refined lunch option, these delicate finger sandwiches offer a variety of flavors, from creamy chicken with tarragon to zesty egg salad and refreshing cucumber with gorgonzola cream.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

Classic Chicken Sandwiches with Tarragon and Chives

• 2 green tea bags
• 2 strips lemon peel
• 400g chicken breast
• ½ cup (100g) whole egg mayonnaise
• ¼ cup finely chopped tarragon
• 1 tbsp finely chopped chives
• 6 slices white sandwich bread
• Softened butter, for spreading

Creamy Egg Sandwiches with Caper and Preserved Lemon

• 5 hard-boiled eggs, peeled and finely chopped
• 1 tsp finely chopped preserved lemon
• 1 tbsp baby capers, drained and finely chopped
• 4 leaves baby cos lettuce, shredded
• ¼ cup (85g) whole egg mayonnaise
• 6 slices white sandwich bread
• Softened butter, for spreading

Traditional Cucumber Sandwiches

• ¾ cup (180ml) white wine vinegar
• ¼ cup (55g) caster sugar
• 4 sprigs lemon thyme
• 1 tsp pink peppercorns
• 3 Lebanese cucumbers, thinly sliced lengthwise
• 200g gorgonzola cheese, chopped
• 250g softened cream cheese
• 6 slices brown sandwich bread
• Softened butter, for spreading

Directions

Classic Chicken Sandwiches with Tarragon and Chives

1. Bring 1 liter of water to a boil in a saucepan. Add tea bags, lemon peel, and chicken. Reduce heat and simmer for 12 minutes until cooked through.
2. Let the chicken cool in the poaching liquid, then finely chop.
3. In a bowl, mix chicken, mayonnaise, tarragon, and chives. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Spread butter on one side of the sandwich bread. Divide the chicken mixture between half of the slices, then top with the remaining bread.
5. Cut off the crusts and slice each sandwich in half.

Creamy Egg Sandwiches with Caper and Preserved Lemon

1. In a bowl, combine chopped eggs, preserved lemon, capers, lettuce, and mayonnaise. Season with black pepper.
2. Spread butter on one side of the sandwich bread.
3. Divide the egg mixture between half of the slices, then sandwich with the remaining bread.
4. Cut off the crusts and slice each sandwich in half.

Traditional Cucumber Sandwiches

1. In a saucepan, bring vinegar, sugar, thyme, and pink peppercorns to a boil. Stir for 2 minutes until sugar dissolves. Let it cool slightly, then add cucumber slices. Let them pickle for 10 minutes.
2. In a food processor, blend gorgonzola and cream cheese until smooth.
3. Spread butter on one side of the sandwich bread.
4. Spread the gorgonzola cream over half of the slices. Drain and pat dry the pickled cucumber slices, then layer them over the gorgonzola cream.
5. Top with the remaining slices of bread. Trim the crusts and cut each sandwich in half.

Nutrients (Per Serving – Approximate)

• Calories: 250-300 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 30 g
• Protein: 12 g
• Fat: 12 g
• Saturated Fat: 5 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Sugar: 5 g
• Sodium: 450 mg

The History and Tradition of High Tea Sandwiches

High tea sandwiches have long been associated with British afternoon tea culture. Traditionally served alongside scones and pastries, these small, crustless sandwiches were designed to be light yet satisfying, complementing a cup of tea without overwhelming the palate. Over time, they have become a symbol of refined gatherings, enjoyed at social events, weddings, and even elegant picnics.

The key to a perfect high tea sandwich lies in its delicate balance of flavors, textures, and high-quality ingredients. The bread should be soft yet sturdy enough to hold the filling, while the fillings themselves should be flavorful without being overly heavy. The result is a harmonious bite-sized treat that pairs beautifully with a warm cup of tea.

What Makes These High Tea Sandwiches Special?

• Variety of flavors – This recipe features three distinct sandwiches, each offering a unique taste experience.
• Elegant presentation – Crustless, neatly cut sandwiches add a touch of sophistication to any table.
• Perfect for entertaining – Ideal for tea parties, brunches, or special occasions.
• Easy to prepare in advance – These sandwiches can be made ahead of time, allowing you to focus on hosting.

The Three Types of High Tea Sandwiches

Each sandwich in this recipe is crafted to highlight a different set of flavors and textures. From creamy to tangy to fresh, these options cater to various tastes while maintaining the elegance of traditional high tea fare.

Classic Chicken Sandwiches with Tarragon and Chives

Chicken sandwiches are a high tea classic, offering a mild yet flavorful filling. This version is infused with aromatic tarragon and fresh chives, giving it a subtle, herbaceous quality that pairs beautifully with the creamy mayonnaise dressing.

One of the unique elements of this sandwich is the poaching technique used to cook the chicken. Instead of grilling or roasting, the chicken is gently poached in a broth flavored with green tea and lemon peel. This not only keeps the meat incredibly tender but also imparts a light, fragrant essence that complements the tarragon and chives perfectly.

The filling is finely chopped to ensure a smooth texture that spreads evenly between the slices of soft, buttery bread. The result is a delicate yet flavorful sandwich that melts in your mouth with every bite.

Creamy Egg Sandwiches with Caper and Preserved Lemon

Egg sandwiches are another traditional favorite in afternoon tea menus. This version takes the classic egg salad sandwich up a notch with the addition of preserved lemon and capers, adding a touch of saltiness and citrusy brightness.

Preserved lemons, a staple in Mediterranean cuisine, provide a unique depth of flavor that fresh lemons cannot replicate. Their slightly fermented, tangy taste balances the richness of the eggs and mayonnaise, while finely chopped baby capers add a briny contrast that enhances the overall flavor profile.

Shredded baby cos lettuce is mixed into the filling, adding a refreshing crunch that keeps the texture interesting. The combination of creamy, tangy, and slightly salty flavors makes this sandwich a standout on any high tea platter.

Traditional Cucumber Sandwiches with Gorgonzola Cream

No high tea menu is complete without cucumber sandwiches, the quintessential afternoon tea classic. While the traditional version consists of thinly sliced cucumbers and buttered bread, this recipe takes it to the next level by incorporating gorgonzola cream and lightly pickled cucumbers.

Gorgonzola, a creamy blue cheese, adds a bold, tangy contrast to the crisp, fresh cucumbers. When blended with cream cheese, it creates a smooth, luxurious spread that enhances the sandwich’s richness while maintaining a light and airy feel.

The cucumbers are quickly pickled in a white wine vinegar, lemon thyme, and pink peppercorn brine, which intensifies their natural freshness and adds a delicate acidity that cuts through the richness of the cheese. The pickling process takes only 10 minutes but makes a world of difference in elevating the overall flavor.

Layered on slices of soft brown sandwich bread, this cucumber and gorgonzola cream sandwich is a sophisticated twist on a beloved classic.

Choosing the Right Bread for High Tea Sandwiches

The choice of bread is just as important as the filling when it comes to high tea sandwiches. Soft, fine-textured bread is essential for achieving the perfect balance between structure and tenderness. Here are a few ideal options:

• White sandwich bread – Classic and versatile, perfect for chicken and egg sandwiches.
• Brown or whole grain bread – Adds a slight nuttiness and depth, complementing cucumber sandwiches well.
• Brioche or milk bread – Provides a slightly sweeter, softer option for a more indulgent feel.

Regardless of the type of bread used, removing the crusts and slicing the sandwiches into elegant shapes (rectangles or triangles) is a must for a polished high tea presentation.

Tips for Making the Best High Tea Sandwiches

• Use fresh, high-quality ingredients – The simplicity of these sandwiches means that the freshness of ingredients plays a crucial role in their overall flavor.
• Prepare fillings in advance – Letting the flavors meld together enhances their taste, making them even more delicious.
• Butter the bread lightly – This creates a barrier that prevents sogginess, ensuring the sandwiches stay fresh for longer.
• Use a sharp knife for slicing – A clean cut maintains the sandwiches’ delicate, refined appearance.
• Serve chilled or at room temperature – High tea sandwiches taste best when slightly cool but not straight from the refrigerator.

Perfect Pairings for High Tea Sandwiches

High tea sandwiches are typically served alongside other light and elegant fare. Here are some great accompaniments to complete your tea party spread:

• Scones with clotted cream and jam – A must-have for a traditional afternoon tea experience.
• Mini quiches or savory pastries – Add variety with small bites of flavorful, flaky goodness.
• Fresh fruit and delicate desserts – Balance the savory elements with berries, petit fours, or macarons.
• A selection of fine teas – Pair these sandwiches with classic black teas like Earl Grey or Darjeeling, or opt for herbal blends such as chamomile or green tea for a refreshing touch.

Conclusion

High tea sandwiches are an exquisite addition to any elegant gathering, offering a blend of delicate flavors, soft textures, and refined presentation. Whether you prefer the herbaceous chicken with tarragon, the zesty egg salad with preserved lemon, or the refreshing cucumber with gorgonzola cream, these sandwiches are guaranteed to impress.