Crispy Ham Cheese Puff Pastry (Printable Format)
Flaky puff pastry with ham and gooey cheese layered together for a crisp, satisfying snack.
# Needed Ingredients:
→ Puff Pastry
01 -
One package (approximately 17.3 ounces) frozen puff pastry sheets, thawed
→ Filling
02 -
8 slices deli ham
03 -
8 slices Swiss cheese or Gruyère cheese or Cheddar cheese
04 -
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
05 -
Salt, to taste
06 -
Ground black pepper, to taste
07 -
Fresh herbs such as thyme or rosemary, finely chopped, for garnish (optional)
→ Egg Wash
08 -
1 large egg, beaten
09 -
1 tablespoon milk
# Preparation Steps:
01 -
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
02 -
Place thawed puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface and gently roll out to even the edges and slightly enlarge each sheet.
03 -
Slice each sheet into 4 equal squares, totaling 8 pastry squares.
04 -
In a small bowl, whisk together the beaten egg and 1 tablespoon of milk until well combined.
05 -
Place a slice of ham on each pastry square. If desired, spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard atop the ham, then add a slice of cheese.
06 -
Lightly season with salt and ground black pepper. Sprinkle chopped fresh herbs over the cheese if using.
07 -
Top each stack with another pastry square. Press down gently to seal. Use a fork to crimp the edges, ensuring they are completely sealed and decorative.
08 -
Brush the surface of each stack with the prepared egg wash for an even, golden finish.
09 -
Transfer pastry stacks to the parchment-lined baking sheet, allowing space between each to facilitate even baking.
10 -
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the puff pastry is a deep golden brown and fully puffed.
11 -
Remove from the oven and let sit for several minutes before serving warm.
# Supplementary Details:
01 -
Ensure puff pastry is fully thawed before working to prevent cracking and tearing.
02 -
For best results, serve immediately after baking while the pastry remains crisp.