Ham, Cheddar and Tomato Relish Finger Sandwiches

Smoked ham combined with sharp vintage cheddar cheese and sweet, tangy tomato relish on wholemeal bread make an irresistible offering for your next Afternoon Tea. Combine them with some other finger sandwiches for the perfect sandwich platter!

So easy, but so delicious!

Ham, Cheddar and Tomato Relish Finger Sandwiches might just be the ultimate afternoon tea treat—quick to assemble, packed with bold flavors, and, when made the right way, one of the best make-ahead sandwiches you can prepare.

Why are they so irresistible? Smoky, savoury ham lays down a rich, salty foundation, perfectly balanced by the sharp, creamy bite of vintage cheddar. Then comes the magic—a generous layer of tangy-sweet tomato relish, adding a vibrant burst of flavour that cuts through the richness, tying every bite together beautifully.

Served on soft, hearty wholemeal bread, my Ham, Cheddar and Tomato Relish Finger Sandwiches are the perfect blend of comforting and sophisticated. Whether you’re hosting an elegant afternoon tea or just craving something delicious, these little beauties are guaranteed to disappear fast!

Useful links

Hosting an Afternoon Tea features helpful hints and tips including sandwich quantities, themes and menu planning while my Sandwich Fillings & Quantities chart will help you work out how many fingers and flavours you might need.

Make ahead tips

These finger sandwiches are super make-ahead friendly and can be made a day in advance (with my storage tips), so you can host with less fuss.

Other Sandwich recipes to try

Chicken Finger Sandwiches

Curried Egg Finger Sandwiches

Cucumber Finger Sandwiches

As with any recipe, make sure you read all the steps before you begin.

What you’ll need for my Ham, cheddar and tomato relish finger sandwiches

Wholemeal sandwich bread: Use fresh wholemeal sandwich bread. Sandwich loaves are square compared to a hi-top loaf which has a domed top.

Smoked ham – thinly sliced: With a subtle smoked aroma that elevates the overall taste of the sandwich, its saltiness complements other ingredients like cheddar cheese and tomato relish, enhancing each bite without overwhelming the palate. Substitute with Virginian Ham if you don’t like it or can’t find it.

Vintage cheddar cheese: Vintage Cheddar cheese is a more mature and flavourful version of traditional cheddar, often aged for 12 months or longer, allowing it to develop a sharp, nutty, and complex taste. Known for its crumbly texture and intense flavour, vintage cheddar adds a deep richness to any dish, especially in sandwiches. You can buy a block (which will have the best flavour) and cut it yourself, or buy pre-sliced if you prefer. Substitute with cheddar.

Good quality store-bought tomato relish: Tomato relish is a vibrant, tangy-sweet condiment made primarily from ripe tomatoes, vinegar, sugar, and spices. The relish is typically cooked down to a thick, jam-like consistency, resulting in a flavourful topping that adds both sweetness and tartness to sandwiches, burgers, grilled meats, and more. My favourite is Australian Tomato Chutney from South Australian brand Beerenberg but see what you can find where you live (or make your own…..yum!)

Unsalted butter: Provides a moisture proof barrier between the ham, relish and the bread as well as imparting delicious flavour. Using unsalted butter ensures greater control over seasoning, particularly as some smoked hams can be salty.

How to make Ham, Cheddar and Tomato Relish Finger Sandwiches

The order of the layers is important and will prevent your sandwich going soggy.

Cut a few thin slices of vintage cheddar from the block (if using). You can always cut more if you don’t have enough. Alternatively, remove 3 pre-cut slices from the packet and set aside.

Butter all 6 slices of bread then trim the ham to fit the bread so you have a single, flat slice.

Top each slice of ham with a little relish and spread until evenly covered.

Finish with a slice of cheddar.

Using a bread knife / serrated knife, remove the crusts on each side.

Remove the crusts with a sharp bread knife, then cut into 3 equal fingers. Repeat with the other sandwiches.

To store

Line a sealed container with baking paper.

Place the finger sandwiches inside.

Wet two pieces of paper towel then squeeze out the excess water.

Cover the sandwich fingers with the paper towel, tuck in the ends. Add any other sandwich flavours to the container if you are making a selection for Afternoon Tea.

Place the lid on the container and store in the fridge for up to 1 day.

To serve

Take the container out of the fridge 30 minutes before serving, keep the lid on until your guests arrive.

Remove the paper towel, add the sandwiches to your platter or tea stand – serve and enjoy!