Puff pastry sticks with ham and cheese

Here’s a savory and delightful recipe for Puff Pastry Sticks with Ham and Cheese—a perfect snack or appetizer that is easy to make and packed with flavor. The crispy puff pastry pairs perfectly with the salty ham and melted cheese for a satisfying bite!

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Puff Pastry Sticks with Ham and Cheese

Makes about 12-16 sticks

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Ingredients:

• 1 sheet of puff pastry (store-bought, thawed if frozen)
• 4-6 slices ham (thinly sliced, such as deli ham)
• 1 cup shredded cheese (Swiss, cheddar, or a blend of your choice)
• 1 tablespoon mustard (optional, for added flavor)
• 1 egg (for egg wash)
• Salt (to taste)
• Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
• Fresh herbs (optional: thyme or rosemary for extra flavor)

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Equipment:

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper (optional for easy cleanup)
• Pastry brush (for egg wash)
• Knife or pizza cutter (for cutting strips)
• Small bowl (for egg wash)

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Instructions:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Prepare the Puff Pastry

1. Unroll the puff pastry sheet on a clean, flat surface. If the pastry is too thick, you can gently roll it out with a rolling pin to make it slightly thinner and more even.
2. If you want an extra layer of flavor, spread a thin layer of mustard over the puff pastry. This adds a nice tangy flavor that complements the ham and cheese, but it’s optional if you’re not a fan of mustard.

Step 3: Add the Ham and Cheese

1. Lay the slices of ham evenly across the puff pastry. Ensure the ham slices cover the entire surface of the pastry, leaving a small border around the edges.
2. Evenly sprinkle the shredded cheese over the ham. You can use a single type of cheese or a blend, depending on your preference.

Step 4: Cut the Puff Pastry into Strips

1. Using a knife or pizza cutter, cut the puff pastry into strips about 1 inch (2.5 cm) wide. You can cut them shorter or longer depending on how big you want the sticks to be, but 1-inch width works well for bite-sized portions.

Step 5: Twist the Pastry Strips

1. Take each strip and gently twist it to form a spiral. Hold the ends of the strip and rotate them in opposite directions, twisting the pastry tightly but not too much, so it doesn’t tear.

Step 6: Prepare the Egg Wash

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg with a tablespoon of water or milk to make an egg wash.
2. Using a pastry brush, brush the egg wash over each twisted puff pastry stick. This will give the sticks a golden, shiny finish as they bake.

Step 7: Season and Add Herbs (Optional)

1. Sprinkle a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper over the sticks for seasoning.
2. If you’d like, you can also sprinkle some fresh herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, on top of the sticks for an added burst of flavor.

Step 8: Bake the Sticks

1. Arrange the puff pastry sticks on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are not crowded so they have room to puff up and crisp up.
2. Bake the sticks in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown and puffed up.

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy

1. Once baked, remove the puff pastry sticks from the oven and allow them to cool for a couple of minutes before serving.
2. Serve warm as a snack, appetizer, or even alongside a salad for a light lunch.

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Notes:

• Puff Pastry: You can use store-bought puff pastry for convenience, but if you’re feeling adventurous, you can make your own puff pastry from scratch. Store-bought puff pastry works perfectly for this recipe, saving you time.
• Ham: You can use any type of ham you prefer. Thinly sliced deli ham works well, but you can also try prosciutto, serrano ham, or even leftover holiday ham for a unique twist.
• Cheese: Swiss cheese is a classic choice, but you can also experiment with cheddar, mozzarella, or gouda for different flavor profiles. A blend of cheeses will also work well for a more complex flavor.
• Herbs and Seasonings: Feel free to customize the seasoning. Adding garlic powder, onion powder, or even a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top before baking adds a wonderful depth of flavor.
• Make-Ahead Tip: You can prepare the puff pastry sticks up to a day in advance. Simply assemble the sticks, place them on a baking sheet, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, simply brush with egg wash and bake as instructed.
• Storage: These puff pastry sticks are best served fresh, but you can store any leftovers in an airtight container for 1-2 days. To reheat, place them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for a few minutes to restore their crispness.

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Conclusion:

These Puff Pastry Sticks with Ham and Cheese are the perfect combination of flaky, cheesy, and savory goodness. Whether you’re making them for a party, a family snack, or a casual meal, they’re sure to be a hit! With minimal ingredients and a quick prep time, they’re a delicious treat that can be made in no time.