Layered Puff Pastry Ham and Cheese Bites

These savory puff pastry bites are packed with layers of ham, salami, cheese, and a tangy mayonnaise-ketchup sauce. Perfect as an appetizer, snack, or party finger food, theyโ€™re crispy on the outside and filled with cheesy, meaty goodness on the inside. Topped with sesame seeds for an extra crunch, these puff pastry bites are sure to be a hit.

Preparation Time:

  • Prep time: 20 minutes
  • Cook time: 30 minutes
  • Total time: 50 minutes

Ingredients:

For the Filling:

  • 80g mayonnaise
  • 30g ketchup
  • 300g cheese, grated (your choice of cheddar, gouda, etc.)
  • 300g ham, sliced
  • 150g Hungarian salami, sliced
  • 1 tomato, thinly sliced
  • 200g mozzarella, sliced
  • 1 pickled cucumber, sliced
  • 1 onion, thinly sliced
  • 10g mustard
  • 4g sweet paprika
  • 4g sugar
  • 100g mayonnaise (for sauce)

For the Puff Pastry:

  • 500g puff pastry (2 sheets)
  • 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
  • 7g white sesame seeds
  • 7g black sesame seeds
  • 100g extra cheese for topping

Directions:

1. Prepare the Puff Pastry:

  • Preheat your oven to 180ยฐC (350ยฐF).
  • Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to ensure itโ€™s smooth and ready for filling.

2. Make the Filling:

  • In a small bowl, mix 80g mayonnaise and 30g ketchup to make a simple sauce.
  • Spread the sauce evenly on the puff pastry sheets.
  • Layer the grated cheese, ham, Hungarian salami, sliced tomatoes, mozzarella, pickled cucumbers, and onions over the puff pastry.
  • Sprinkle the mustard, sweet paprika, and sugar over the top of the layered ingredients.

3. Assemble:

  • Roll out the second sheet of puff pastry and place it over the filled pastry.
  • Press down the edges to seal the filling inside.
  • Brush the top with beaten egg and sprinkle white and black sesame seeds on top.
  • Grate 100g of extra cheese and sprinkle it over the pastry for added flavor and texture.

4. Bake:


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  • Transfer the assembled puff pastry onto a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
  • Bake in the preheated oven at 180ยฐC (350ยฐF) for 30 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.

5. Serve:

  • Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing into bite-sized squares.
  • Enjoy the puff pastry bites warm with extra mayonnaise or mustard for dipping.

Serving Suggestions:

  • Serve with a side of pickles or dipping sauces like garlic aioli or mustard for extra flavor.
  • These bites pair perfectly with a fresh salad for a light meal.
  • Ideal for parties, brunch, or as an easy snack.

Cooking Tips:

  • For extra crispiness, use a fork to prick small holes in the puff pastry before baking to release steam.
  • To prevent the puff pastry from becoming soggy, make sure the fillings (especially tomatoes and onions) are well-drained.
  • If you prefer a spicier version, add a dash of chili flakes or hot sauce to the mayonnaise-ketchup sauce.

Nutritional Benefits:

  • Ham and Salami: Provide protein and flavor.
  • Cheese: Rich in calcium and protein, adding creaminess to the filling.
  • Tomatoes: A source of vitamins and antioxidants.
  • Sesame Seeds: Add texture and healthy fats to the dish.

Dietary Information:

  • Nut-Free: Safe for those with nut allergies.
  • Vegetarian Option: Omit the ham and salami, and add more vegetables like spinach or mushrooms.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free puff pastry for those with gluten sensitivities.

Nutritional Facts (per serving, based on 12 servings):

  • Calories: 250 kcal
  • Protein: 12g
  • Carbohydrates: 20g
  • Fat: 15g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sugar: 3g

Storage:

  • Fridge: Store any leftover puff pastry bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat: Reheat in the oven at 180ยฐC (350ยฐF) for 5-10 minutes to maintain crispiness.
  • Freezer: These puff pastry bites can be frozen before or after baking. If freezing before baking, add 5-10 minutes to the cooking time when baking from frozen.

Why Youโ€™ll Love This Recipe:

  1. Cheesy and Savory: The combination of ham, salami, and cheeses makes for a rich and satisfying filling.
  2. Crispy and Flaky: The puff pastry provides the perfect light and crispy contrast to the hearty filling.
  3. Easy to Make: With ready-made puff pastry, this recipe comes together quickly and effortlessly.
  4. Great for Entertaining: These bites are perfect for serving at parties, brunches, or as a fun snack.
  5. Customizable: You can easily swap out ingredients or add extra veggies to suit your taste.

Conclusion:

These layered puff pastry bites with ham, salami, and cheese are a delightful blend of flavors and textures. The crispy, flaky pastry encases a rich, savory filling thatโ€™s perfect for any occasion. Whether youโ€™re making them for a party or enjoying them as a snack, these bites are sure to impress with their delicious combination of ingredients.

Frequently Asked Questions:

  1. Can I use other types of cheese?
    Yes, feel free to use any cheese you prefer, such as cheddar, gouda, or even feta for a tangier flavor.
  2. Can I make these puff pastry bites ahead of time?
    Yes, you can assemble them ahead and keep them in the fridge until youโ€™re ready to bake. Just brush with egg wash before baking.
  3. Can I freeze these bites?
    Yes, you can freeze them before baking and cook them directly from frozen, just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
  4. Can I make a vegetarian version?
    Absolutely! Simply omit the ham and salami and add extra vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers.
  5. How do I prevent the puff pastry from becoming soggy?
    Be sure to drain any excess liquid from the tomatoes or other vegetables before layering them into the pastry.