There’s something timeless about a Cucumber Star Sandwiches — soft bread, crisp cucumber, and a whisper of fresh herbs. I still remember a quiet winter afternoon in London when I slipped into a tiny tearoom behind a bookshop. Outside, the streets were cold and gray, but inside, the sandwiches were delicate, cloud-soft, and comforting in a way only simple food can be.
These Cucumber Star Sandwiches capture that feeling, with a festive twist. Cut into charming star shapes, they make perfect appetizers for Christmas, New Year’s Eve gatherings, baby showers, or cozy afternoon tea. Light, elegant, and refreshingly easy to prepare, they’re the kind of appetizer guests remember.
How to Make Cucumber Star Sandwiches
1. Ingredients
For the Sandwich Stars
• 12 slices soft white sandwich bread, crusts removed
• 1 large English cucumber, thinly sliced
• Coarse salt
• Cracked black pepper
Herbed Cream Cheese Spread
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 2 tbsp mayonnaise
• 1 tbsp fresh dill, finely chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh chives, finely chopped
• 1 tsp lemon juice
• Pinch garlic powder
• Pinch coarse salt
Recommended Tools
• Star-Shaped Cookie Cutter Set – gives perfect clean edges.
• Mandoline Slicer – essential for paper-thin cucumber slices.
2. Prepare the Cucumbers (Essential for a Non-Soggy Sandwich)
Slice the cucumber into thin, even rounds, about ⅛ inch thick. A mandoline makes this quick and precise. Lay the slices on paper towels, sprinkle lightly with coarse salt, and let them rest for 15–20 minutes. Pat dry thoroughly to remove moisture.
This step ensures the sandwiches stay crisp and fresh instead of soft and watery.
3. Make the Herbed Cream Cheese Spread
In a small bowl, mix the softened cream cheese with mayonnaise, dill, chives, lemon juice, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt. Stir until smooth and spreadable.
This herbed mixture adds brightness and acts as a moisture barrier between the bread and cucumbers.
For smoother spreading, an offset spatula works beautifully.
4. Assemble the Sandwiches
Lay all the bread slices on a flat surface. Spread each one generously with the herb cream cheese. Add cucumber slices to half the pieces, then season lightly with cracked black pepper. Place the remaining slices on top, spread side down, to form full sandwiches.
A simple bamboo serving board is perfect for assembling and later presenting your sandwiches.
5. Cut the Sandwiches Into Star Shapes
Press a medium star-shaped cookie cutter straight down into each sandwich. Lift gently so the edges remain smooth and clean. Save the leftover bread to make croutons, breadcrumbs, or even a quick French toast casserole.
6. Chill Before Serving
Refrigerate your cucumber star sandwiches for 10–15 minutes. This quick chill helps them firm up, making the shapes beautifully defined when served.
Serving Suggestions
• Arrange on a wooden board with fresh dill sprigs
• Add red cherry tomatoes for a festive Christmas color palette
• Serve alongside sparkling tea, prosecco, or herbal spritzes
These sandwiches are refreshing, elegant, and easy to eat — a perfect addition to holiday brunches, tea parties, or Christmas appetizer spreads.
Variations You Can Try
• Add a thin radish slice for extra color
• Swap dill for mint or basil
• Try whole-wheat or brioche bread for a richer base
• Add microgreens for a modern, fresh look
How to Store Your Cucumber Star Sandwiches
If you’re prepping these cucumber star sandwiches ahead of time for a party or holiday brunch, proper storage is essential to keep them fresh and crisp. Because cucumbers release moisture, the best method is to assemble the sandwiches, chill them, and store them in airtight containers. This prevents the bread from drying out while protecting the delicate star shapes. I recommend using high-quality, airtight Food Storage Containers that lock in freshness and stack neatly in the fridge. They make transporting your appetizers to a friend’s house or holiday event so much easier.
A Final Travel Thought
Every time I make these cucumber star sandwiches, I think back to that quiet London tearoom — the soft clink of porcelain, the warmth of the seat by the window, and the simple comfort of food made with care. Travel teaches us to slow down and savor the small things, and perhaps that’s why these little sandwiches feel meaningful.
They’re more than an appetizer.
They’re a reminder that elegance doesn’t need effort — just intention.
If you enjoy travel-inspired holiday food, you might also love my Best Christmas Cookies Delivered.