Elegant Raspberry Cream Sandwiches

These cloud-like raspberry cream sandwiches blend the sweet tartness of fresh berries with the delicate richness of whipped cream, all nestled between pillowy slices of bread. They transport me back to elegant afternoon teas and carefree summer picnics, where these pretty pink treats were always the first to disappear from the plate.

These dainty sandwiches have been my secret weapon for last minute entertaining. When my daughter announced her friends were coming over for an impromptu tea party, these raspberry cream sandwiches saved the day and became an instant tradition in our home.

Ingredients

• Soft white or brioche bread: The softer and more buttery the bread, the more delicate your sandwiches will be
• Fresh raspberries: Choose plump, bright red berries for the best flavor and color
• Heavy cream or mascarpone: Mascarpone creates a richer filling while whipped cream offers a lighter touch
• Powdered sugar: Adds sweetness and creates a beautiful finishing touch when dusted on top
• Vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor of both the berries and cream with its aromatic depth

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Filling:

Gently mash the fresh raspberries with a fork, leaving some texture rather than creating a smooth puree. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream or mascarpone with a tablespoon of powdered sugar until soft peaks form. Add a few drops of vanilla extract if desired. Carefully fold the mashed raspberries into the whipped cream mixture, creating beautiful pink swirls throughout.

Remove Bread Crusts:

Using a sharp knife, carefully trim the crusts from each slice of bread. Work with gentle pressure to maintain the soft texture of the bread. If using brioche, you might find it cuts more cleanly when slightly chilled.

Assemble the Sandwiches:

Spread a generous layer of the raspberry cream mixture onto one slice of bread, extending it nearly to the edges. Place another slice on top, pressing down very gently to secure without squeezing out the filling. The filling should be about a quarter inch thick for the perfect cream to bread ratio.

Shape and Finish:

For classic tea sandwiches, cut each sandwich into three finger sized rectangles or four triangles. For a more whimsical presentation, use cookie cutters to create shapes like hearts, stars, or circles. Place finished sandwiches on a serving plate and dust lightly with powdered sugar just before serving.

Pin it

You Must Know

• These are best enjoyed within 2 hours of making them
• The raspberry cream filling can be made up to 6 hours ahead and refrigerated
• Perfect alongside a pot of Earl Grey tea or chamomile

The first time I made these was for my grandmother's 80th birthday. She took one bite and her eyes lit up as she whispered that they reminded her of the fancy tea room sandwiches she loved as a young woman in London. Now I make them every year on her birthday, even though she's no longer with us, as a sweet way to remember our shared love of delicate treats.

Make Ahead Options

While the complete sandwiches are best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare components ahead of time to streamline assembly. The raspberry cream filling can be made up to a day in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. If you choose this route, give it a gentle stir before spreading. You can also remove crusts from bread and store slices between damp paper towels in a sealed bag at room temperature for several hours before assembly.

Pin it

Berry Variations

Though raspberries create the most striking visual impact with their vibrant pink hue, these cream sandwiches welcome seasonal adaptations. Try blackberries in late summer for a deeper purple tone and more intense flavor. Strawberries work beautifully in spring, though you may want to add a drop of natural food coloring if you desire a pink filling. For a festive holiday twist, cranberries cooked down with a touch of orange zest create a sophisticated winter version.

Serving Suggestions

These delicate sandwiches shine as part of a traditional afternoon tea service. Arrange them on a tiered stand alongside cucumber sandwiches, mini scones, and petite pastries. For children's parties, cut them into playful shapes using cookie cutters and serve with fruit skewers and small cups of lemonade. They also make a surprisingly elegant dessert when plated with a berry coulis, a dollop of extra whipped cream, and a sprig of mint.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I make these raspberry cream sandwiches ahead of time?

You can prepare these sandwiches up to 2-3 hours ahead, but keep them covered in the refrigerator to prevent the bread from drying out. For best results, dust with powdered sugar just before serving.

→ What's the best bread to use for these sandwiches?

Soft white bread or brioche works best as they have a tender texture that complements the cream filling. Avoid dense or heavily seeded breads that might overpower the delicate raspberry flavor.

→ Can I substitute the raspberries with other fruits?

Absolutely! Strawberries, blackberries, or blueberries make excellent substitutions. You can also try peaches or mangoes for a different flavor profile, though you may need to adjust the sweetness accordingly.

→ How do I prevent the sandwiches from becoming soggy?

To prevent sogginess, avoid making them too far in advance and ensure your raspberry puree isn't too watery. You can also lightly butter the bread slices before adding the filling to create a moisture barrier.

→ What can I serve with raspberry cream sandwiches?

These sandwiches pair beautifully with afternoon tea, especially Earl Grey or chamomile. They also complement other tea party favorites like scones, fruit salad, or chocolate-dipped strawberries for a more elaborate spread.

→ Can I freeze raspberry cream sandwiches?

These sandwiches don't freeze well as the cream filling and bread texture will deteriorate when thawed. They're best enjoyed fresh or within a few hours of preparation.