Kentucky Derby Benedictine Tea

A Southern classic, Kentucky Derby Benedictine Tea Sandwiches bring a fresh, crisp flavor to any elegant brunch or afternoon gathering. This beloved cucumber and cream cheese spread has been a tradition at Kentucky Derby celebrations, offering a light and refreshing bite that’s easy to prepare yet impressively delicious.

Save

The crispness of the English cucumber combined with the creamy blend of cream cheese, dill, and chives creates an irresistible spread. It’s a timeless recipe that has delighted guests for generations and continues to be a staple at elegant Southern parties.

Ingredients

• Spread
• 1 large English cucumber, peeled and seeded
• 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh dill
• 1 tablespoon finely chopped chives
• 1 tablespoon grated onion
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/8 teaspoon ground white pepper
• 2–3 drops green food coloring (optional, for traditional color)
• Sandwich Assembly
• 12 slices very fresh white sandwich bread, crusts removed
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened (optional, for spreading)

Instructions

1. Grate the cucumber using a fine grater. Place the grated cucumber in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much liquid as possible.

2. In a medium bowl, combine the cream cheese, mayonnaise, dill, chives, grated onion, salt, and white pepper. Mix until smooth.

3. Stir in the drained cucumber and mix until well blended. Add green food coloring if desired and mix until the color is uniform.

4. If using, lightly butter one side of each slice of bread to prevent sogginess.

5. Spread a generous layer of the Benedictine mixture on half of the bread slices. Top with the remaining bread slices to form sandwiches.

6. Gently press and trim crusts if needed. Cut each sandwich into quarters (rectangles or triangles).

7. Arrange on a platter and serve immediately, or cover with a damp paper towel and plastic wrap and refrigerate until serving.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

For best results, be sure to thoroughly drain the grated cucumber to avoid soggy sandwiches. Softening the cream cheese before mixing ensures a smooth, creamy spread. Lightly buttering the bread slices on one side helps maintain the sandwich’s texture when stored or served later.

Varianten und Anpassungen

You can experiment by using whole wheat or rye bread for a different flavor and texture. The spread can also be made a day in advance and refrigerated for convenience. Adding thin cucumber slices or fresh dill sprigs as a garnish elevates the presentation and taste.

Serviervorschläge

Arrange the sandwiches neatly on a platter for an elegant tea party, brunch, or light snack. Garnish with delicate cucumber slices or sprigs of fresh dill to complement the flavors and add visual appeal.

Save

These Kentucky Derby Benedictine Tea Sandwiches capture the essence of Southern hospitality and celebration. Their bright, refreshing flavor and elegant simplicity make them a beloved choice year after year, perfect for sharing with friends and family at your next special gathering.

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of bread works best for these sandwiches?

Soft white sandwich bread with crusts removed works best to hold the creamy spread and maintain a delicate texture.

→ Can I prepare the spread ahead of time?

Yes, the cucumber and cream cheese mixture can be refrigerated for up to a day to allow flavors to meld.

→ How do I prevent the sandwiches from becoming soggy?

Lightly buttering one side of each bread slice helps create a moisture barrier and keep sandwiches fresh.

→ Are there alternative breads for variation?

Whole wheat or rye bread can be used for a different texture and flavor profile.

→ What gives the spread its traditional green color?

A few drops of green food coloring may be added to achieve the classic Benedictine hue, but it is optional.