Description
A quick and easy party appetizer featuring savory ham and melty cheese wrapped in flaky puff pastry, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 sheets puff pastry, thawed
- 8 ounces (225 grams) ham slices, thinly sliced (smoked or honey-glazed recommended)
- 8 ounces (225 grams) shredded cheese (sharp cheddar and mozzarella mix)
- 1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 2 tablespoons mustard
- 1 tablespoon melted butter (optional, for sealing pastry edges)
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon optional dried herbs (oregano or thyme)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- On a lightly floured surface, unfold one sheet of thawed puff pastry. Spread a thin layer of mustard evenly across the entire sheet.
- Lay ham slices evenly over the mustard-coated pastry, covering the surface without overlapping too thickly.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese evenly over the ham.
- Lightly sprinkle freshly ground black pepper and optional dried herbs over the cheese.
- Starting from one long edge, carefully roll the pastry into a tight log, keeping it snug but airy.
- Brush melted butter along the edge of the pastry to seal the roll and press gently to close.
- Cut the roll into 1-inch (2.5 cm) wide sticks using a sharp knife or pizza cutter. Place sticks flat on the prepared baking sheet, spaced about an inch apart.
- Brush each stick generously with the beaten egg for a golden finish.
- Bake for 15–18 minutes until sticks puff up and turn golden brown, checking around 12 minutes to avoid over-browning.
- Remove from oven and let cool for about 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
Use cold puff pastry to keep layers flaky. Do not overfill to avoid soggy sticks. Egg wash gives a golden shine. Optional broil last 1-2 minutes for extra crispiness. Store leftovers in airtight container refrigerated up to 3 days; reheat in oven at 350°F for 8-10 minutes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-18 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stick
- Calories: 180
- Fat: 10
- Carbohydrates: 12
- Protein: 8
Keywords: ham and cheese sticks, party appetizer, easy snack, puff pastry, quick appetizer, cheesy snack, savory sticks