Ham & Cheese and Fruit Jam Puff Pastry Triangles

Deliciously simple yet impressively tasty, these Ham & Cheese and Fruit Jam Puff Pastry Triangles feature buttery, golden triangles straight from the oven—some filled with savory ham and cheese, others with sweet fruit jam and a cinnamon sugar sprinkle. Versatile, quick, and loved by all ages, they’re perfect for breakfast, snacks, brunch, or tea-time indulgence. With only a handful of ingredients and unlimited flavor combinations, these puff pastry treats are a surefire hit for home bakers and crowd-pleasers alike.

Cooking Time

Prep: 15 minutes
Bake: 25–30 minutes at 180 °C (356 °F)
Total: ~45 minutes
Yield: 12–16 triangles, depending on dough size

Ingredients

• 1 sheet puff pastry (store-bought or homemade), thawed

• 4–6 slices of ham or bacon

• 100 g cheese (e.g., cheddar, Gruyère), sliced or shredded

• 2–3 Tbsp fruit jam (apple, peach, raspberry, or favourites)

• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

• Optionally: 1 tsp cinnamon + 1 tsp granulated sugar

• 1 Tbsp sesame seeds (optional garnish)

Step-by-Step Cooking Directions

1. Preheat Oven: Heat to 180 °C (356 °F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Prepare Pastry & Fillings: Unfold puff pastry and smooth out any creases. Slice into equal rectangles or triangles (e.g., 4×4 for 16).

3. Add Savory Triangles: On half of the triangles, place a slice of ham and cheese, leaving a small edge for sealing.

4. Add Sweet Triangles: On the other half, spoon 1 tsp of fruit jam each. Dust with optional cinnamon sugar for added flavor.

5. Seal & Brush: Fold triangles over to enclose fillings. Press edges with a fork to seal. Brush each with beaten egg.

6. Add Toppings: Sprinkle sesame seeds on top of savory ones or extra sugar on sweet ones.

7. Bake: Place on the prepared tray and bake in the center of the oven for 25–30 minutes until puffy and golden.

8. Cool Slightly & Serve: Let cool for 5 minutes before serving to avoid burns and to allow flavors to settle.

Nutritional Information (per triangle; approx.)

• Calories: 150 kcal

• Fat: 9 g (mostly from butter in pastry)

• Carbohydrates: 12 g

• Protein: 4 g

• Sugar: 3 g (higher in jam triangles)

Origins and Popularity

Puff pastry has a storied heritage in French and European baking. The concept of filled triangles mimics croissants and savory chaussons, while sweet versions echo Danish pastries. These handheld delights have traveled globally, gaining popularity on cooking channels and culinary blogs for their ease, versatility, and irresistible visual appeal.

Reasons Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Minimal prep, big payoff

• Satisfies both sweet and savory cravings

• Just five ingredients, yet infinitely customizable

• Perfect for making ahead and reheating

• Great for casual gatherings or fancy brunches

Health Benefits

• Portion-controlled treat: One triangle is satisfyingly small

• Lean protein: Via ham or turkey in savory versions

• Fruit jam: Adds a natural sweetness and trace nutrients

• Sesame seeds: Provide calcium and healthy fats on savory puffs

Serving Suggestions

• Pair savory versions with fresh salad or pickles

• Serve sweet versions with tea, coffee, or sparkling beverages

• Add a side of Greek yogurt or fruit compote

• Arrange as part of a brunch board with cheese, fruit, and nuts

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Undersealed edges: Leads to leaks—press firmly with a fork

• Overfilling: Causes spilling and soggy bottoms

• Skipping egg wash: Leads to dull color and dry texture

• Oven temperature mishandling: Too low = dense, too high = burnt edges

Pairing Recommendations

• On the savory side: Herbal tea, espresso, mild ale, or crisp cider

• On the sweet side: Earl Grey, mint tea, or sparkling apple juice

• Extras: Cream cheese dip, sliced cucumbers, fruit salad

Cooking Tips

• Let puff pastry thaw properly to avoid cracking

• Keep pastry sheet cool; it rises better when cold

• Dock sweet-filled dough lightly to release steam and prevent bursting

• Remove from baking tray promptly to maintain crisp bottoms

• Use fresh or good-quality ingredients for best results

Similar Recipes to Try

• Spinach & Feta Puff Pastry Pockets

• Ham & Cheese Croissants

• Apple Cheese Danish Pinwheels

• Mini Vegetarian Empanadas

• Raspberry Almond Turnovers

Variations to Try

• Savory: Add mustard, spinach, caramelized onions, or smoked salmon

• Sweet: Swap jam for Nutella, lemon curd, mascarpone, or fresh berries

• Spiced: Add nutmeg or cardamom to sweet versions

• Cheesy twist: Use Gouda, mozzarella, or pepper jack for different flavors

• Mixed bundles: Fold both savory and sweet triangles on the same tray for variety

Ingredient Spotlight: Puff Pastry

Puff pastry is a laminated dough with flaky layers from butter folded into dough. When baked, steam causes it to rise into crisp, airy layers. Its buttery flavor and light structure make it ideal for both sweet and savory delights, offering a versatile canvas for filling creativity.

Conclusion

These Savory and Sweet Puff Pastry Triangles are a delightful way to bring variety and ease into your baking. With luscious fillings sealed in flaky pastry, they’re a clear hit for gatherings, snacks, or simple indulgences. Their ease and elegant outcome make them a kitchen go-to for both impromptu cooking and planned entertaining. Enjoy the contrast of savory and sweet in a bite-sized pastry that never disappoints!

10 Comprehensive Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I freeze unbaked triangles?
   Yes—lay them flat on a tray, freeze, then transfer to a bag. Bake frozen, adding 2–3 minutes.

2. Reheating for best results?
   Reheat in a 180 °C oven for 5–8 minutes to restore crispness—avoid microwaving.

3. Can I use pizza dough?
   Yes, but puff pastry gives the signature flakiness—pizza dough yields a chewier result.

4. Can I make these vegan?
   Use dairy-free puff pastry and vegan cheese. Replace egg wash with plant milk or oil spray.

5. What jams work well?
   Stick with thick jams—apple, peach, raspberry, apricot, or fig all shine.

6. How many pastries per serving?
   Serve 2–3 per person, depending on size and appetite.

7. Can I use fresh fruit inside?
   Yes, but drain or pat dry to avoid soggy pastry.

8. Can I add a glaze to sweet versions?
   Yes—mix powdered sugar with milk or juice, drizzle after baking.

9. Any cheese suggestions?
   Try Swiss, Gruyère, or mild cheddar—each adds character to savory triangles.

10. Can I add fresh herbs or spices?
    Yes—sprinkle fresh rosemary, thyme, or a dash of paprika or chili flakes before baking.