Salty, Earthy, Sweet
The addition of apple butter to standard ham and cheese tea sandwiches changes the flavor, but also changes the whole texture of the sandwich. Apple butter adds a bit more moisture, something that really brings it all together. When it comes to the flavor difference, we are pretty sure your guests will find this awesome. Salty ham has always made a good partner for the mild, almost nutty flavor of Swiss cheese and the sweetness of apple butter. Bringing these three together creates the perfect blend of salty, earthy, and sweet. It’s a flavor combination that is sure to both comfort and surprise your guests in the best way.
We put this sandwich on rye bread because it is part of the quintessential image of a ham and cheese sandwich. Additionally, the flavor that a good rye bread can add really takes the sandwich to a whole other level. However, feel free to use any bread you prefer. It is always a nice touch to have different types of bread if you plan on serving different sandwiches. Not only does it make them easier to select, but it creates more visual appeal as well. Try adding a deviled egg salad on wheat and a brie and strawberry on white to the same tray as this ham and cheese tea sandwich and you will see what we are talking about.
Want to add even more depth and complexity to this simple sandwich? Try using our chai-infused apple butter recipe. The extra spice flavor is subtle enough not to overpower the other ingredients, but adds a certain depth of flavor that is truly out of this world. Because the chai flavor is subtle, it still pairs well with a strong chai such as our Rainy Day pu-erh. Even if you are using a traditional apple butter recipe, we still recommend pairing it with a nice chai, since the flavors go so well together. The Full Moon Chai with its sweet warming feel is a wonderful combination with this sandwich.
Fall Tea Party Menu
These apple butter ham and cheese tea sandwiches go well with nearly any menu, but they go especially well with a fall-themed menu. Try pairing it with a nice autumn soup, like caramelized carrot and sweet potato, or a squash quiche. A great dessert would be our Chai Monkey Bread or Apple Cardamom Cake.
Apple Butter Ham and Cheese Tea Sandwiches
Ingredients:
- 4 slices rye bread, crusts removed and halved
- 1/4 lb thick-cut ham
- 1/4 lb sliced Swiss cheese
- 1/3 cup prepared apple butter
- 1 tablespoon butter
Directions:
Place 4 rye bread halves on plate or cutting board and layer equal amounts of ham and Swiss cheese on each piece. Smear a healthy dollop of apple butter onto the remaining pieces of bread and place on top, smeared side down.
Melt half of the butter in a large skillet over medium high heat, swirling to coat.
Place the sandwiches on the skillet and cook until toasted, about 1-2 minutes. Add the remaining butter and flip the sandwiches. Cook again until toasted and the cheese has melted.
Serve immediately.
