Description
When it comes to delicious and easy-to-make snacks, few dishes compare to the simple elegance of Ham and Cheese Sticks. This savory treat combines the flakiness of puff pastry with the savory goodness of ham and melted cheese, creating a perfectly portable bite that’s ideal for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, preparing a snack for the kids, or looking for a quick and tasty appetizer, Ham and Cheese Sticks are sure to hit the spot.
Ingredients
- 1 sheet of puff pastry (thawed): Puff pastry provides the perfect flaky and golden texture that makes these sticks so irresistible. You can find pre-made puff pastry sheets in the frozen section of most grocery stores, making this recipe quick and easy.
- 6 oz sliced ham (deli ham or any preferred variety): The ham is the star ingredient of these sticks. Choose a high-quality deli ham or your favorite variety for the best flavor.
- 6 oz shredded cheese (cheddar, Swiss, or your choice): Cheddar and Swiss are classic options that melt beautifully, but feel free to experiment with different cheeses, like mozzarella, gouda, or pepper jack, for a unique flavor twist.
- 1 egg (for egg wash): The egg wash gives the Ham and Cheese Sticks a golden and glossy finish. It also helps seal the pastry to keep everything in place during baking.
- 1 tablespoon mustard (optional): Mustard adds a tangy kick that complements the richness of the cheese and ham. If you’re not a fan of mustard, you can skip it or try other condiments like Dijon or even a honey mustard variation.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Season to your preference to enhance the flavors of the filling.
- Sesame seeds or poppy seeds (optional, for topping): For added texture and visual appeal, sprinkle sesame or poppy seeds on top of the egg wash before baking. It gives your Ham and Cheese Sticks a gourmet touch.
Instructions
Before you begin preparing your ingredients, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure the sticks bake evenly.
Lay out your thawed puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface. Use a rolling pin to smooth out the pastry and make it a little thinner if needed. Once the dough is ready, cut it into strips, each about 1 inch wide and 6 inches long. You can adjust the size of the strips depending on how large or small you want the sticks to be.
If you’re using mustard, spread a thin layer of mustard along each pastry strip. This is optional, but the mustard will add a nice zing that complements the ham and cheese. Then, place a slice of ham at one end of each strip, followed by a generous sprinkle of shredded cheese. Make sure to leave a little room at the edges so the filling doesn’t spill out during the rolling process.
Starting from the ham and cheese end, carefully roll up the pastry strips tightly, ensuring the filling is secure inside. As you roll, try to keep the pastry snug so that it holds together during baking. Place each rolled stick seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
In a small bowl, beat the egg and use a pastry brush to apply the egg wash to the tops of the sticks. This will give them a beautiful golden brown finish once they’re baked. If you’d like to add extra crunch and flavor, sprinkle sesame seeds or poppy seeds on top of the egg wash.
Place the prepared sticks into the oven and bake them for 15-20 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown. You’ll want to keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t overcook or burn. Once they’re golden and crispy, remove them from the oven.
Allow the Ham and Cheese Sticks to cool for a few minutes before serving. This gives the cheese time to set slightly, so it’s not too hot to handle. Serve warm for the best flavor, and enjoy!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes