Description
Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Sticks are a quick and tasty snack made by layering thinly sliced ham and cheese on puff pastry, then baking until golden and flaky. These savory sticks make perfect appetizers or party snacks and can be enhanced with fresh herbs and mustard for dipping.
Ingredients
Scale
Primary Ingredients
- 1 package of puff pastry (thawed)
- 4-6 slices of ham (thinly sliced)
- 4-6 slices of cheese (Swiss, cheddar, or mozzarella)
- 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
Optional Ingredients
- Fresh herbs (like rosemary or thyme) for garnish
- Mustard for dipping
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it reaches the ideal temperature for baking the puff pastry sticks.
- Prepare Puff Pastry: Roll out the thawed puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to smooth it out and prepare for layering.
- Layer Ingredients: Evenly place slices of thinly sliced ham and your choice of cheese (Swiss, cheddar, or mozzarella) over the surface of the rolled pastry.
- Cut & Fold: Cut the pastry into strips of your preferred width, then fold each strip in half, encasing the ham and cheese filling inside.
- Apply Egg Wash: Brush the tops of each pastry stick with the beaten egg. This step will help create a shiny, golden, and crispy crust when baked.
- Bake: Arrange the prepared sticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Bake them for 12-15 minutes, or until they are puffed up and golden brown.
- Serve: Once baked, optionally garnish with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme and serve with mustard on the side for dipping, enhancing the flavor.
Notes
- Ensure the puff pastry is properly thawed before rolling for best texture.
- Use thinly sliced ham and cheese for easy folding and even cooking.
- Be careful not to overfill the pastry strips to prevent leakage during baking.
- For a sharper flavor, choose aged cheddar or Swiss cheese.
- Serve immediately after baking for the best crispness, or reheat briefly before serving.
