These crispy puff pastry ham and cheese sticks are the ultimate snack for any party or cozy evening at home. Quick to prepare with just a handful of ingredients, they’re always a crowd-pleaser. With their golden, flaky crust and savory filling of ham and melted cheese, these sticks are simply irresistible!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
- Quick and Easy: Just a few steps and minimal ingredients.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Great as party snacks, finger food, or a side dish.
- Deliciously Savory: Crispy puff pastry paired with gooey cheese and hearty ham – what’s not to love?
Ingredients
- Puff pastry (refrigerated or thawed if frozen)
- Cooked ham (thinly sliced)
- Shredded cheese (such as Gouda, Emmental, or Cheddar)
- 1 egg (for brushing)
- Sesame seeds or poppy seeds (optional, for garnish)
Full ingredient measurements are in the recipe card below.
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Oven
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) or 180°C (350°F) for fan-assisted ovens. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: Layer the Puff Pastry
Roll out the puff pastry and cut it into evenly sized rectangles or strips. Lay a slice of ham over half of each rectangle and sprinkle shredded cheese on top.
Step 3: Fold and Shape
Fold the other half of the puff pastry over the filling and press the edges gently with a fork to seal. For sticks, twist the strips slightly to create a spiral shape.
Step 4: Brush and Garnish
Beat the egg and brush it over the top of the pastry. Sprinkle with sesame seeds or poppy seeds for extra crunch and flavor, if desired.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake the sticks in the preheated oven for 15–20 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
Tips and Tricks
- Use Fresh Puff Pastry: For the flakiest results, use fresh or high-quality puff pastry.
- Add a Flavor Boost: Spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard or cream cheese on the pastry before adding the ham and cheese.
- Vegetarian Option: Swap the ham for sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers.
Variations
- Spicy Sticks: Add a pinch of chili flakes or a slice of jalapeño for a kick.
- Sweet Version: Replace ham and cheese with chocolate chips or fruit preserves for a dessert twist.
- Mediterranean Style: Use prosciutto, Parmesan, and sprinkle with dried Italian herbs.
Serving Suggestions
These puff pastry sticks pair wonderfully with:
- Dips like garlic aioli, marinara sauce, or herb yogurt.
- A fresh green salad for a light meal.
- As part of a charcuterie board for added variety.
FAQs
1. Can I prepare these ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the sticks in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Bake them fresh before serving.
2. Can I freeze them?
Absolutely! Freeze the unbaked sticks and bake directly from frozen, adding 5–7 minutes to the baking time.
3. What kind of cheese works best?
Any cheese that melts well is ideal – Gouda, Cheddar, Mozzarella, or a mix of cheeses works great.
4. Can I use whole-grain puff pastry?
Yes, whole-grain puff pastry is a great alternative for a nuttier, rustic flavor.
Conclusion
Crispy puff pastry ham and cheese sticks are an easy-to-make treat that everyone will adore. Whether for a party, snack, or appetizer, these flaky, savory bites are sure to disappear fast. Give them a try and enjoy their perfect crunch and melty goodness!
Print
Crispy Puff Pastry Ham and Cheese Sticks: Easy Party Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 10–12 sticks 1x
- Category: Appetizer, Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: German-inspired
Description
These crispy puff pastry ham and cheese sticks are the ultimate party treat or snack. Layers of buttery puff pastry, savory ham, and melted cheese combine to create a golden, flaky delight that’s easy to make and sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- 4 slices of ham (thinly sliced)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (Gruyère, Cheddar, or mozzarella)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds or poppy seeds (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- Prepare the Puff Pastry:
- Preheat oven to 200°C (390°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. If desired, spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard over the pastry.
- Layer the Ham and Cheese:
- Arrange the ham slices evenly over one half of the puff pastry. Sprinkle shredded cheese over the ham.
- Fold the other half of the pastry over the ham and cheese, pressing down gently.
- Cut and Shape:
- Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to slice the pastry into 1-inch-wide strips.
- Twist each strip gently and place it on the prepared baking sheet.
- Add Finishing Touches:
- Brush the twists with beaten egg. Sprinkle sesame seeds or poppy seeds on top if desired.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed.
- Serve:
- Serve warm as a party snack or appetizer.
Notes
- Use turkey or salami as a ham substitute for variety.
- For extra crispiness, chill the twists in the refrigerator for 10 minutes before baking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stick
- Calories: 10
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 11g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 25mg