Description
Savory easy cheese ham pastry delights with golden, flaky layers of buttery goodness. Mediterranean-inspired ingredients blend perfectly for a quick and satisfying meal you can enjoy anytime.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- 6–8 slices ham (thinly sliced)
- ½ cup (120 ml) shredded cheddar cheese (or Swiss/Gruyere)
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1 egg
- 1 tbsp water
- 1 tsp sesame seeds or poppy seeds (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Pastry Preparation: Unfold puff pastry on a lightly floured surface, smoothing out any creases to create a pristine canvas for the ham and cheese creation.
- Shaping and Seasoning: Slice pastry into uniform squares, optionally brushing with Dijon mustard to introduce a tangy flavor foundation that will complement the filling.
- Layering Flavors: Arrange ham slices on each pastry square, then generously sprinkle shredded cheese to ensure a rich, melting interior that promises indulgence.
- Sealing and Finishing: Fold pastry edges, crimping with a fork to create a secure seal, then brush with egg wash to guarantee a glossy, golden-brown exterior that will catch the eye.
- Optional Embellishment: Sprinkle sesame or poppy seeds across the surface for added texture and visual intrigue, if desired.
- Baking Process: Transfer pastries to a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them to allow even heat circulation, and bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) until achieving a burnished, flaky perfection.
- Serving Suggestion: Allow pastries to rest briefly after removing from the oven, then serve warm alongside honey mustard or preferred dipping sauce, inviting guests to savor these delectable ham and cheese parcels.
Notes
- Pastry Handling Tip: Keep puff pastry chilled until just before use to maintain its delicate, flaky structure and prevent sticking or tearing during preparation.
- Even Cooking Technique: Space pastries at least 1-2 inches apart on the baking sheet to ensure proper air circulation and uniform golden-brown coloration.
- Flavor Enhancement Strategy: Experiment with different cheese varieties like Gruyère, sharp cheddar, or Swiss to add depth and complexity to the basic ham and cheese combination.
- Dietary Adaptation Method: Create gluten-free or vegetarian versions by substituting puff pastry with alternative doughs and replacing ham with roasted vegetables or plant-based protein alternatives.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Snacks, Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 9
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fiber: 0.5 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 40 mg