Introduction
Puff Pastry Sticks with Ham and Cheese are a quick and irresistible savory snack made with flaky puff pastry, smoky ham, and melted cheese. Twisted into crispy golden sticks, they’re ideal for parties, brunches, or a snack platter. With minimal ingredients and effort, you get a bakery-quality appetizer right from your oven!
Ingredients
1 sheet puff pastry (thawed if frozen)
3–4 slices of cooked ham (thinly sliced)
1/2 to 3/4 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, Swiss, or Gruyère)
1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional, for added flavor)
Freshly cracked black pepper (optional)
Sesame seeds or poppy seeds (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
1. Preheat Oven & Prepare Surface:
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Lightly flour your work surface and roll out the puff pastry slightly if needed.
2. Assemble the Layers:
Spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard over the puff pastry (optional).
Evenly layer ham slices over one half of the pastry.
Sprinkle shredded cheese over the ham.
Fold the other half of the puff pastry over the ham and cheese, like a sandwich.
3. Cut & Twist:
Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to slice the layered pastry into strips (about 1/2 to 1 inch wide).
Twist each strip gently and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
Brush each twist with the beaten egg and sprinkle with pepper or seeds if desired.
4. Bake:
Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed.
Let cool slightly before serving.
Description
These Puff Pastry Ham and Cheese Sticks are buttery, flaky, and packed with flavor. The cheese melts into the pastry layers while the ham adds a savory bite. With a golden crunch and melty center, each stick is a handheld delight perfect for dipping or munching on its own.
Tips
Cold Pastry = Better Puff: Keep puff pastry chilled until ready to work with.
Even Baking: Twist and space the sticks evenly so they crisp up all around.
More Cheese: Add extra cheese if you love gooey, melty centers.
Freezing Option: Assemble and freeze raw twists for future baking.
Variations
Sweet Option: Swap ham and cheese for Nutella and banana slices, or jam and cream cheese.
Veggie Twist: Add thinly sliced roasted red peppers or spinach.
Herby Kick: Sprinkle with dried oregano or Italian seasoning before baking.
Spicy Version: Add a dash of chili flakes or jalapeño slices for heat.
Corrections
Too Soft? Bake a few minutes longer or raise the oven temp slightly for extra crisp.
Pastry Unraveled? Press edges gently before twisting or chill the strips before baking.
Cheese Leaking Out? Keep fillings centered and avoid overfilling.
Enjoy
Serve these Puff Pastry Sticks with Ham and Cheese warm from the oven with your favorite dipping sauces—like honey mustard, ranch, or marinara. They’re fun to make, impressive to serve, and impossible to resist!