You only need 4 ingredients, puff pastry sticks with ham and cheese

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Only 4 Ingredients : Minimal effort with maximum flavor—perfect for busy days or last-minute entertaining.

Flaky & Cheesy : The puff pastry becomes irresistibly crispy, while the melted cheese adds gooey goodness.

Customizable : Swap cheeses, add herbs, or use different fillings like turkey or spinach.

Kid-Friendly : Even picky eaters will love these cheesy, hammy treats.

Portable : Perfect for snacking on the go, serving at parties, or packing for picnics.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Makes 12–16 sticks

1 sheet puff pastry (store-bought or homemade), thawed if frozen

4 slices deli ham , cut into thin strips

1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or Gruyère work well)

1 egg , beaten (for egg wash)

Optional Add-Ins:

Fresh herbs (like thyme or rosemary)

Dijon mustard or pesto for extra flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) . Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.

Step 2: Prepare the Puff Pastry

Roll out the puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface to smooth any creases. Cut it into 12–16 even strips, about 1 inch wide.

Step 3: Assemble the Sticks

Place a strip of ham and a sprinkle of shredded cheese along each puff pastry strip.

Fold one side of the pastry over the filling, then roll it up tightly to enclose the ham and cheese. Repeat with the remaining strips.

Step 4: Brush with Egg Wash

Place the assembled sticks on the prepared baking sheet, seam-side down.

Brush the tops lightly with the beaten egg for a golden, shiny finish.

Step 5: Bake

Bake for 15–20 minutes , or until the puff pastry is golden brown and puffed up.

Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.

Why This Recipe Works

Puff Pastry Magic : The buttery layers bake up light, flaky, and irresistibly crisp.

Melty Cheese : The shredded cheese melts perfectly into the ham, creating a gooey, savory center.

Ham Flavor Boost : Deli ham adds a salty, savory element that pairs beautifully with the rich pastry.

Variations to Try

Add Herbs : Sprinkle fresh thyme, rosemary, or chives on top before baking for extra flavor.

Spice It Up : Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot honey after baking.

Veggie Option : Substitute the ham with sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or roasted red peppers.

Gluten-Free Option : Use gluten-free puff pastry dough.

Sweet Twist : Skip the ham and cheese and fill with Nutella or cinnamon sugar for a sweet version.

Tips for Success

Thaw Properly : If using frozen puff pastry, thaw it in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for 30–40 minutes before rolling.

Seal Tightly : Press the edges firmly to prevent the filling from leaking during baking.

Storage : Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven to restore crispiness.

Serving Suggestions

Romantic Touch : Garnish with microgreens or edible flowers for elegance.

Brunch Staple : Pair with mimosas, coffee, or fresh fruit for a complete meal.

Party Platter : Serve alongside other appetizers like dips, sliders, or veggie skewers for variety.

Final Thoughts

These Puff Pastry Sticks with Ham and Cheese are a celebration of simplicity, flavor, and texture, offering a snack that feels indulgent yet approachable. With their minimal ingredients, customizable options, and endless charm, they’re a recipe that’s sure to impress whether you’re cooking for a special occasion, a casual snack, or simply craving something satisfying.

Your Turn! Have you ever made puff pastry snacks or experimented with easy appetizers? Share your favorite variations or serving ideas below.