Kentucky Derby Benedictine Sandwiches (Printable)

Refreshing cucumber and cream cheese tea sandwiches perfect for elegant Southern-style brunches or gatherings.

# What You'll Need:

→ Spread

01 - 1 large English cucumber, peeled and seeded
02 - 8 oz cream cheese, softened
03 - 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
04 - 2 tablespoons fresh dill, finely chopped
05 - 1 tablespoon chives, finely chopped
06 - 1 tablespoon onion, grated
07 - 1/4 teaspoon salt
08 - 1/8 teaspoon ground white pepper
09 - 2-3 drops green food coloring, optional

→ Sandwich Assembly

10 - 12 slices white sandwich bread, crusts removed
11 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened, optional

# Directions:

01 - Grate the cucumber using a fine grater. Place grated cucumber in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much liquid as possible.
02 - In a medium bowl, combine cream cheese, mayonnaise, dill, chives, grated onion, salt, and white pepper. Mix until smooth.
03 - Stir in the drained cucumber and mix until well blended. Add green food coloring if desired and mix until color is uniform.
04 - If using, lightly butter one side of each bread slice to prevent sogginess.
05 - Spread a generous layer of Benedictine mixture on half of the bread slices. Top with remaining bread slices to form sandwiches.
06 - Gently press sandwiches together and trim crusts if needed. Cut each sandwich into quarters as rectangles or triangles.
07 - Arrange on a platter and serve immediately, or cover with a damp paper towel and plastic wrap and refrigerate until serving.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • Quick and easy to prepare with no cooking required—perfect for last-minute gatherings
  • A refreshing vegetarian option that's light yet satisfying
  • Steeped in Kentucky Derby tradition and Southern hospitality
  • Make-ahead friendly, allowing you to prepare the spread a day in advance
  • Elegant presentation that impresses guests at brunches, showers, and afternoon teas
02 -
  • Always use English cucumbers—they have fewer seeds and less water than regular cucumbers
  • Soften cream cheese at room temperature for 30 minutes before mixing for the smoothest spread
  • Use a sharp serrated knife to cut sandwiches cleanly without squishing the bread
  • Keep assembled sandwiches covered with a damp (not wet) paper towel and plastic wrap to prevent drying
  • For perfectly uniform sandwiches, use a ruler to measure before cutting
  • Freeze leftover Benedictine spread in an airtight container for up to one month
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