Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Bites

Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Bites

If you're looking for a delightful appetizer that combines the flaky goodness of puff pastry with the savory flavors of ham and cheese, look no further! These Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Bites are not only incredibly easy to make, but they also pack a punch of flavor that will leave your guests begging for more. Perfect for parties, game nights, or even a cozy family gathering, these little bites are sure to impress. With just a few simple ingredients and a quick prep time, you can whip up a batch in no time. Ready to elevate your snacking game? Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!

Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: French
Serves: 24 bites

Ingredients

  1. 1 package puff pastry sheets
  2. 8 oz ham, diced
  3. 8 oz cheese, shredded (cheddar or Swiss)
  4. 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the puff pastry from sticking.
  2. Thaw the puff pastry sheets according to the package instructions. This usually takes about 10-15 minutes at room temperature. Make sure the sheets are pliable but not overly soft.
  3. While the puff pastry is thawing, prepare the filling. In a mixing bowl, combine the diced ham and shredded cheese. You can use either cheddar or Swiss cheese based on your preference. Mix well to ensure the ham and cheese are evenly distributed.
  4. Once the puff pastry is ready, lightly flour your work surface to prevent sticking. Unfold the puff pastry sheets and roll them out gently with a rolling pin to smooth out any creases.
  5. Using a sharp knife or a pizza cutter, cut the puff pastry into squares or rectangles, approximately 3x3 inches in size. You should be able to get about 24 pieces from one package of puff pastry.
  6. Place a spoonful of the ham and cheese mixture in the center of each puff pastry square. Be careful not to overfill, as this may cause the pastries to burst open during baking.
  7. Fold the corners of the puff pastry over the filling to create a pocket or triangle shape. Press the edges together firmly to seal. You can also use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative touch and to ensure they are sealed well.
  8. Brush the tops of the puff pastry bites with the beaten egg using a pastry brush. This will give them a beautiful golden color when baked.
  9. Arrange the filled and brushed puff pastry bites on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each bite to allow for expansion during baking.
  10. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the puff pastry is golden brown and puffed up. Keep an eye on them to avoid over-baking.
  11. Once baked, remove the puff pastry bites from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack.
  12. Serve the ham and cheese puff pastry bites warm as an appetizer or snack. Enjoy!

Tips

  1. Choose Your Cheese Wisely: While cheddar and Swiss are popular choices, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère or mozzarella for a unique twist on flavor.
  2. Don't Rush the Thawing: Ensure your puff pastry is fully thawed and pliable before rolling it out. This will help prevent tearing and make it easier to work with.
  3. Mind the Filling: Avoid overfilling your pastry squares. A spoonful of the ham and cheese mixture is just right to prevent any bursting during baking.
  4. Seal It Well: Press the edges of the pastry firmly to seal, and consider using a fork to crimp the edges for an extra touch of flair.
  5. Watch the Bake Time: Keep an eye on your bites as they bake. Ovens can vary, so check for that perfect golden brown color to ensure they’re just right.
  6. Serve Them Warm: These puff pastry bites are best enjoyed warm, so plan to serve them right out of the oven for maximum flavor and flakiness.

Nutrition Facts

Calories: 80kcal

Carbohydrates: 5g

Protein: 4g

Fat: 6g

Saturated Fat: g

Cholesterol: 15mg

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