Ham and Cheese Puffs are a delicious and easy-to-make snack that everyone will love. These little pockets of goodness are perfect for parties, lunchboxes, or a quick snack at home. With flaky puff pastry wrapped around savory ham and gooey cheese, they are sure to satisfy your cravings. Let’s dive into why you should make this yummy treat and how to do it!
Why Make This Recipe
Making Ham and Cheese Puffs is a great choice for several reasons. Firstly, they are quick to prepare and bake, allowing you to enjoy a delicious treat in no time. Furthermore, they require only a few simple ingredients that you might already have in your kitchen. Lastly, they are versatile; you can serve them at a gathering, as a tasty snack, or even as a light meal. Who doesn’t love warm puff pastries filled with ham and cheese?
How to Make Ham and Cheese Puffs
Making Ham and Cheese Puffs is simple. Here’s what you need.
Ingredients:
- 2 sheets puff pastry (25cm/10″ square)
- 4 – 5 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 8 oz/250g shaved ham
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or any other melting cheese)
- 2 egg yolks (or 1 egg)
- Oil spray
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 200°C/425°F (180°C fan-forced). Lightly spray 2 baking trays with oil or line them with baking paper.
- Let the puff pastry partially defrost and cut each sheet into 9 squares, each measuring 8cm/3.5 inches.
- Spread about 1/2 teaspoon of mustard diagonally on each square of pastry.
- Place some ham on top of the mustard, and then sprinkle cheese over the ham.
- To wrap, dab one corner of the square with egg yolk using a brush. Fold the opposite corner over the filling first, then fold the corner with the egg yolk over it and press down to seal.
- Place the wrapped puffs on the baking tray and repeat with the remaining squares.
- Brush the tops of the puffs with egg. Bake for about 15 minutes or until they are deep golden brown and puffed.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
How to Serve Ham and Cheese Puffs
Ham and Cheese Puffs are best served warm, right out of the oven. You can present them on a nice platter for a party or snack time. They pair well with a simple salad or dipping sauces like ketchup or mustard for extra flavor.
How to Store Ham and Cheese Puffs
If you have any leftovers (which is rare), you can store Ham and Cheese Puffs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 180°C/350°F for a few minutes until they are warm again.
Tips to Make Ham and Cheese Puffs
- Make sure your puff pastry is thawed and slightly cold for the best texture.
- Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or gouda for varied flavors.
- If you want a bit of spice, add some chopped jalapeños or hot sauce to the filling.
Variation
Feel free to customize the filling! You can add ingredients like sautéed mushrooms, cooked onions, or even spinach for a twist.
FAQs
Can I use different types of meat?
- Yes! You can use turkey, chicken, or even a vegetarian option like roasted vegetables or chickpeas.
Can I prepare these puffs ahead of time?
- Certainly! You can assemble them in advance and freeze them before baking. Just bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What can I serve with these puffs?
- They go well with a variety of dips like ranch, BBQ sauce, or even a fresh garden salad.
Ham and Cheese Puffs
Ingredients
Puff Pastry
- 2 sheets puff pastry (25cm/10″ square) Let it partially defrost before use.
Filling
- 4-5 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 8 oz shaved ham Alternatively, use turkey or chicken.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese Or any other melting cheese.
- 2 egg yolks egg yolks (or 1 egg) For sealing the pastry.
- 1 spray oil spray For greasing the baking trays.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 200°C/425°F (180°C fan-forced) and lightly spray 2 baking trays with oil or line them with baking paper.
- Let the puff pastry partially defrost and cut each sheet into 9 squares, each measuring 8cm/3.5 inches.
- Spread about 1/2 teaspoon of mustard diagonally on each square of pastry.
Assembly
- Place some ham on top of the mustard, and then sprinkle cheese over the ham.
- Dab one corner of the square with egg yolk using a brush and fold the opposite corner over the filling first, then fold the corner with the egg yolk over it and press down to seal.
- Place the wrapped puffs on the baking tray and repeat with the remaining squares.
Baking
- Brush the tops of the puffs with egg and bake for about 15 minutes or until they are deep golden brown and puffed.
