Delicious, plant-based recipes with step-by-step instructions
Afternoon Tea isn’t just for meat-eaters, vegan sandwiches can be just as indulgent, elegant, and satisfying. Whether you’re hosting a fully plant-based tea party or simply want to offer inclusive options, these vegan finger sandwiches are packed with flavour and perfect for layering on your tiered stand.
Below, you’ll find a variety of vegan sandwich ideas that stay true to the Afternoon Tea tradition, while offering a fresh and creative twist.
Vegan Afternoon Tea Sandwich Menu
- Cucumber & Herbed Vegan Cream Cheese
- Carrot “Smoked Salmon” with Vegan Cream Cheese
- Curried Chickpea Salad
- Avocado, Tomato & Basil
- Vegan Cheese & Onion Chutney
- Roasted Red Pepper & Hummus
1. Cucumber & Herbed Vegan Cream Cheese
You’ll need:
- ½ cucumber, thinly sliced
- 100g vegan cream cheese
- 1 tsp chopped fresh dill (or chives)
- Salt and pepper
- Soft white sandwich bread (crusts removed)
Instructions:
- Slice the cucumber and lay the slices on kitchen paper. Sprinkle lightly with salt to draw out moisture. Let sit for 10 minutes.
- In a small bowl, mix the vegan cream cheese with dill or chives. Season with salt and pepper.
- Pat cucumber slices dry.
Spread herbed cream cheese on both slices of bread. Add cucumber, top, trim crusts, and slice.
2. Carrot “Smoked Salmon” with Vegan Cream Cheese
You’ll need:
- 2 carrots, peeled into thin ribbons
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp liquid smoke or smoked paprika
- 100g vegan cream cheese
- Brown bread
Instructions:
- Boil carrot ribbons for 3 minutes, then drain and cool.
- In a bowl, mix soy sauce, vinegar, and liquid smoke. Add carrots and marinate for at least 1 hour (overnight is ideal).
- Spread vegan cream cheese onto bread. Layer with marinated carrots.
- Top, press gently, trim, and slice.
3. Curried Chickpea Salad
You’ll need:
- 1 can chickpeas, drained and mashed
- 2 tbsp vegan mayo
- 1 tsp curry powder
- 1 tbsp raisins or sultanas
- Salt and pepper
- Wholegrain or white bread
Instructions:
- In a bowl, mash chickpeas roughly with a fork.
- Mix in vegan mayo, curry powder, raisins, salt and pepper.
Spread onto bread, add second slice, trim, and cut.
4. Avocado, Tomato & Basil
You’ll need:
- 1 ripe avocado
- ½ lemon (juice only)
- Cherry tomatoes, thinly sliced
- Fresh basil leaves
- Salt and pepper
- Granary or seeded bread
Instructions:
- Mash the avocado with lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Spread onto one slice of bread.
- Layer sliced tomatoes and fresh basil.
Top, trim, and slice.
5. Vegan Cheese & Onion Chutney
You’ll need:
- Vegan cheddar-style cheese (sliced)
- Onion chutney or relish
- Brown or granary bread
Instructions:
- Spread onion chutney on one slice of bread.
- Layer vegan cheese evenly.
Top with second slice, press gently, trim crusts, and cut.
6. Roasted Red Pepper & Hummus
You’ll need:
- Roasted red peppers (jarred or homemade)
- 2 tbsp hummus
- Rocket (arugula) leaves
- Soft white or brown bread
Instructions:
- Spread hummus on both slices of bread.
- Add a layer of roasted pepper and a few rocket leaves.
Close sandwich, trim, and cut.
Serving Tips
- Use fresh, soft bread to keep the sandwiches delicate.
- Trim crusts and cut into uniform fingers or triangles for classic Afternoon Tea presentation.
- Prepare close to serving time for best texture—especially for avocado or tomato fillings.
- Keep sandwiches covered with a damp cloth if prepping ahead.
Bonus Tip: Make Ahead Spreads
Want to streamline your prep? Make the herbed cream cheese, chickpea curry salad, and hummus-based fillings the day before. Store them in airtight containers in the fridge and assemble your sandwiches fresh on the day.
Final Thoughts
Vegan Afternoon Tea sandwiches can be every bit as luxurious and satisfying as their traditional counterparts. With thoughtful combinations of texture, flavour, and presentation, your plant-based options will be a highlight on any tea table.
From creamy avocado and tomato to smoky carrot “salmon,” these sandwiches are proof that Afternoon Tea is for everyone, vegan or not.
Looking for tips on how to present your sandwiches beautifully?
👉 Check out our blog on Afternoon Tea Cake Stands and Styling Ideas
Or want more savoury ideas?
👉 Explore our guide to classic Afternoon Tea sandwich recipes here
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