Description
Delightfully crispy and cheesy, these Ham and Cheese Sticks are perfect savory snacks or party appetizers. Made with flaky puff pastry, sliced ham, and melted cheddar cheese, they’re easy to prepare and bake to golden perfection. A simple egg wash and optional seasoning add a delicious finishing touch, making these sticks irresistibly flavorful and perfect for sharing.
Ingredients
Scale
Pastry and Filling
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- 4 ounces sliced ham
- 4 ounces shredded cheddar cheese
Egg Wash and Seasoning
- 1 large egg, beaten with 1 tablespoon water (egg wash)
- 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Roll Out Puff Pastry: On a lightly floured surface, roll the thawed puff pastry into a rectangle approximately 12 by 10 inches, making sure it’s even to allow uniform cooking.
- Apply Dijon Mustard (Optional): If using, lightly brush the Dijon mustard evenly over the entire surface of the puff pastry to add a subtle tangy flavor that complements the ham and cheese.
- Layer Ham and Cheese: Arrange the sliced ham evenly over half of the pastry sheet, then sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously on top of the ham.
- Fold and Seal Pastry: Carefully fold the other half of the pastry over the ham and cheese filling. Gently press down to seal the edges and prevent filling from escaping during baking.
- Cut Into Strips: Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, cut the folded pastry into 12 strips, each about 1 inch wide. You can twist each strip slightly for an attractive presentation.
- Brush With Egg Wash and Season: Place the strips on the prepared baking sheet and brush each one with the beaten egg wash to give them a glossy, golden finish. Sprinkle black pepper and garlic powder over the sticks if desired.
- Bake Until Golden: Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed up and golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Let the sticks cool slightly on the baking sheet before serving. They are best enjoyed warm for optimal texture and flavor.
Notes
- Substitute Swiss or Gruyère cheese for a different and richer flavor profile.
- For extra crunch and visual appeal, sprinkle sesame seeds or poppy seeds on top before baking.
- Serve these sticks warm to enjoy the best flavor and flaky texture.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days; reheat in the oven to retain crispiness.
