These Cheese and Ham Puff Pastry bites are flaky, golden, and filled with gooey cheese and savory ham. Perfect as an appetizer, snack, or quick lunch, they’re simple to make and irresistibly delicious.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20–25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed if frozen
- 100 g (3.5 oz) ham, sliced or diced
- 100 g (3.5 oz) shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1 tbsp chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Puff Pastry
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
- Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface and cut into squares or rectangles, depending on your preferred size.
Step 2: Add the Filling
- If using Dijon mustard, spread a thin layer onto each pastry piece.
- Place a slice or a small amount of diced ham in the center of each piece.
- Add a generous sprinkle of cheese on top of the ham.
Step 3: Shape the Pastries
- Fold the pastry over the filling to create a triangle, rectangle, or pocket shape.
- Press the edges with a fork to seal tightly.
Step 4: Brush and Bake
- Place the prepared pastries onto the lined baking tray.
- Brush the tops with the beaten egg for a golden finish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until puffed and golden brown.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
- Garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve warm.
5 Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a fresh green salad for a light meal.
- Serve with tomato soup for a comforting combination.
- Add a side of marinara sauce or mustard for dipping.
- Enjoy as part of a brunch spread with eggs and fruit.
- Serve as party appetizers with a platter of mixed dips.
Cooking Tips
- Keep the puff pastry cold before baking for the best puff.
- Avoid overfilling to prevent leaks during baking.
- Use pre-cooked or deli ham to save time.
- Experiment with cheeses like Gouda, Gruyère, or feta for different flavors.
- Freeze unbaked pastries and bake directly from frozen when needed.
Nutritional Benefits
- Cheese: High in calcium and protein.
- Ham: A good source of lean protein.
- Puff Pastry: Provides a light, flaky texture perfect for savory fillings.
Dietary Information
- Not suitable for gluten-free or dairy-free diets.
Nutritional Facts (Per Pastry)
- Calories: 220
- Protein: 8 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fat: 15 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Sugar: 1 g
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to prepare with minimal ingredients.
- Flaky, buttery pastry with a rich and cheesy filling.
- Perfect for any occasion, from snacks to parties.
- Customizable with different fillings like vegetables or turkey.
Conclusion
These Cheese and Ham Puff Pastries are a delicious way to enjoy a savory treat. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or looking for a quick snack, this recipe will be a hit. Try it today and savor every flaky, cheesy bite!
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use frozen puff pastry? Yes, just thaw it according to package instructions before use.
- What other fillings can I use? Try spinach and feta, turkey and Swiss cheese, or roasted vegetables and goat cheese.
- Can I make these in advance? Yes, assemble and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
- How do I store leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat in the oven.
- Can I freeze them? Yes, freeze unbaked or baked pastries for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven before serving.
- What cheese works best? Mozzarella, cheddar, Gouda, or Swiss cheese all work well.
- Why is my puff pastry not flaky? Ensure your oven is fully preheated and avoid overhandling the dough.
- Can I make them mini-sized? Yes, cut the pastry into smaller squares for bite-sized snacks.
- What dipping sauce pairs well? Try honey mustard, marinara, or a creamy garlic dip.
- Can I use pre-shredded cheese? Yes, but freshly grated cheese often melts better.