This Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry recipe is a crowd-pleasing snack or appetizer that’s flaky, cheesy, and absolutely irresistible. Perfect for parties, brunches, or even a quick dinner, these pastries are simple to prepare yet deliver a gourmet experience.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Bake Time: 20-25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Ingredients (Serves 4-6)
- 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed if frozen)
- 6-8 slices of ham
- 6-8 slices of cheese (Swiss, Cheddar, or your favorite)
- 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds or poppy seeds (optional, for garnish)
Directions
- Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Puff Pastry
- Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface. If needed, trim it to create an even rectangle or square.
- Assemble the Pastries
- Spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard on the puff pastry (optional).
- Layer slices of ham and cheese over one half of the pastry, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling and press the edges to seal. Use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative look.
- Cut and Brush
- Cut the pastry into squares, rectangles, or triangles. Place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Brush the tops with the beaten egg and sprinkle with sesame or poppy seeds if desired.
- Bake
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the pastries are puffed and golden brown.
- Serve
- Let the pastries cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm!
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a fresh garden salad for a light meal.
- Serve with a side of marinara or honey mustard for dipping.
- Add to a charcuterie board for an elegant appetizer.
- Enjoy as a snack with a cup of tea or coffee.
- Serve alongside scrambled eggs for a hearty breakfast.
Cooking Tips
- Keep puff pastry chilled until ready to use for the best results.
- Use parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- For extra flavor, add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the filling.
- Use sharp cheddar or Gruyère for a more intense cheesy flavor.
- Avoid overfilling to prevent the pastries from leaking during baking.
Nutritional Benefits
- Protein-rich from the ham and cheese.
- Source of calcium from the cheese.
- Puff pastry adds a satisfying flaky texture.
Dietary Information
- Contains gluten, dairy, and meat.
- Vegetarian option: Replace ham with sautéed spinach or mushrooms.
Nutritional Facts (Per Pastry)
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 10 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fat: 16 g
- Fiber: 1 g
Storage
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to restore crispiness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare with minimal ingredients.
- Customizable with your favorite cheeses and meats.
- Perfect for any occasion, from casual snacks to formal gatherings.
- Kid-friendly and guaranteed to please picky eaters.
Conclusion
These Ham and Cheese Puff Pastries are a simple yet sophisticated treat that’s perfect for any time of day. The combination of flaky pastry, savory ham, and melted cheese is always a hit. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, this recipe is one you’ll want to make again and again!
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use frozen puff pastry? Yes, just thaw it according to the package instructions before using.
- What cheese works best? Swiss, Cheddar, or Gruyère are excellent choices, but any melting cheese will work.
- Can I make these ahead of time? Yes, assemble the pastries and refrigerate them unbaked for up to 12 hours. Bake when ready.
- Can I freeze these pastries? Yes, freeze unbaked pastries and bake directly from frozen, adding 5-7 minutes to the baking time.
- How do I prevent the filling from leaking? Seal the edges well and avoid overfilling.
- Can I add other ingredients? Absolutely! Try spinach, mushrooms, or caramelized onions for extra flavor.
- Can I use phyllo dough instead? Yes, but the texture will be crispier and less flaky.
- Do I need to use an egg wash? It’s optional, but it adds a beautiful golden color to the pastries.
- Can I reheat these pastries? Yes, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them soggy.
- Are these pastries good cold? They’re best warm, but they can be enjoyed cold as a quick snack.