Finger sandwiches for traditional afternoon tea: Ideas and recipes

Finger sandwiches are quintessentially British. They are served as the first course at afternoon tea, either on the bottom plate of a three-tiered etagere or on a separate sandwich plate. Designed to be eaten with the fingers, finger sandwiches are small and crustless, filled with a variety of ingredients such as cucumber, egg salad, smoked salmon and chicken. When served as part of an afternoon tea we recommend a choice of four different fillings and at least two different types of bread. Here are our suggestions for must-have finger sandwiches for afternoon tea.

Cucumber Sandwiches: An afternoon tea essential and simplicity itself. Thin slices of rindless cucumber, rich, creamy butter and soft white bread are the only components of this classic afternoon tea treat, but the freshness of the cucumber against the softness of the bread creates a refreshing contrast. For an even more luxurious cucumber sandwich add a thin layer of cream cheese whipped with dill. Find out how to avoid soggy cucumber sandwiches here!

Coronation Chicken: The coronation chicken finger sandwich is an adaptation of the dish served to Queen Elizabeth II on the day of her coronation. Check out our coronation chicken recipe and consider substituting tofu for chicken for your vegetarian guests.

Smoked Salmon with Cream Cheese: Or alternatively, poached salmon dressed in a clotted cream and dill sauce.

Egg Salad: This classic afternoon tea finger sandwich is simple but adds a delicious creamy, savoury element to the sandwich selection. To make the egg salad, simply hard-boil the eggs, chop them into small pieces and mix with mayonnaise, mustard and a touch of paprika and sprinkle with chives before closing the sandwich.

Vintage Cheddar Cheese with Chutney: A really strong, vintage cheddar spiced up with a dollop of chutney might sound rustic but presented in an elegant finger sandwich, this winning combination adds a hearty and flavorsome aspect to an afternoon tea. Read the Cheshire Cheese Company’s recipe for finger sandwiches here.

Please Sir, can I have some more?

Although it is important not to overload the plates at afternoon tea, to really impress your guests, have extra sandwiches on hand and encourage them to enjoy more of the sandwiches they like before moving on to the scones course.