Ultimate Ham & Cheese Puff Pastry Appetizer
These Ultimate Ham & Cheese Puff Pastry Appetizers are flaky, golden, and irresistibly cheesy. Made with store-bought puff pastry, savory ham, and melty cheese, they’re an easy yet elegant bite perfect for holidays, parties, brunch, or game day.
Equipment
- baking sheet
- parchment paper
- Rolling Pin
- sharp knife or pizza cutter
- pastry brush
Ingredients
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed but cold
- 120 g thinly sliced deli ham
- 100 g Swiss, Gruyère, or cheddar cheese, shredded or sliced
- 1 egg
- 1 tbsp water (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Lightly flour a work surface and roll out the puff pastry just enough to smooth the seams.
- Cut the puff pastry into equal squares or rectangles. Place half of the pieces onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Top each pastry base with a small amount of ham and cheese. Add mustard or herbs if desired, being careful not to overfill.
- Place the remaining pastry pieces on top to form stacks. Gently press the edges to seal lightly without crimping.
- Whisk the egg with water and brush over the tops of each stack. Sprinkle with herbs or black pepper if desired.
- Bake for 18–22 minutes until puffed, golden, and crisp, rotating the pan halfway through. Cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
Keep puff pastry cold for the best rise. Avoid overfilling to prevent cheese leakage. You can customize with different cheeses, mustard, herbs, or swap ham for turkey or vegetables. Best served warm and fresh from the oven.
Nutrition
Calories: 220kcalCarbohydrates: 18gProtein: 8gFat: 14gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 45mgSodium: 420mgPotassium: 120mgFiber: 1gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 350IUCalcium: 180mgIron: 1mg
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!