Crispy & Flaky Puff Pastry Sticks with Ham and Cheese Recipe

Looking for an easy, delicious, and crowd-pleasing snack? These Puff Pastry Sticks with Ham and Cheese are crispy, flaky, and packed with savory goodness. Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a quick appetizer, or simply craving a cheesy treat, this easy puff pastry recipe is perfect.

Made with just a few simple ingredients, these cheese roll ups come together quickly and bake to golden perfection. The buttery puff pastry crisps up beautifully, while the melted cheese and ham inside create a satisfying bite. Plus, they’re incredibly versatile – you can switch up the fillings to suit your taste.

In this article, we’ll walk you through how to make these irresistible puff pastry savoury recipes, along with expert tips to ensure they turn out perfectly every time. Keep reading for step-by-step instructions, serving ideas, and storage tips.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These puff pastry sticks with ham and cheese are an instant favorite for so many reasons!

• Quick and Easy – Minimal prep and a short bake time make this an ideal last-minute snack.
• Crispy and Flaky – The puff pastry bakes into perfectly golden, crispy layers.
• Perfect for Any Occasion – Great for parties, snacks, lunchboxes, or as an appetizer.
• Endless Variations – Swap out ingredients to create different flavors each time!

Now, let’s get started with the ingredients you’ll need.

Ingredients for Puff Pastry Cheese Sticks

To make these crispy flaky cheese sticks, you’ll need:

• 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed if frozen)
• 6 slices of ham (thinly sliced)
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or Swiss)
• 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional, for extra flavor)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional, for added seasoning)
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano (or Italian seasoning)
• Sesame seeds or poppy seeds (optional, for topping)

Essential Kitchen Equipment

Before you begin, make sure you have the following tools:

• Rolling pin (optional)
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Sharp knife or pizza cutter
• Pastry brush for egg wash
• Fork for sealing edges

How to Make Puff Pastry Sticks with Ham and Cheese

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Puff Pastry

Lightly flour your work surface and roll out the puff pastry sheet if needed. If it’s already at the right size, you can skip rolling.

Step 3: Add the Fillings

Spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard over the puff pastry (if using). Evenly layer the ham slices on top, followed by the shredded cheese.

Step 4: Slice and Shape the Sticks

Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, slice the pastry into 1-inch wide strips. If you want a twisty effect, gently twist each strip before placing it onto the baking sheet.

Step 5: Apply Egg Wash

Brush each pastry stick with the beaten egg for a golden, glossy finish. Sprinkle with garlic powder, oregano, and sesame seeds for extra flavor.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden

Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown. Keep an eye on them, as baking times may vary slightly depending on your oven.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Let the sticks cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm for the best texture!

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Tips for the Best Cheese Roll Ups

• Don’t Overfill – Too much cheese or ham can cause the pastry to burst open while baking.
• Use Cold Puff Pastry – This helps the layers puff up properly in the oven.
• Twist for Extra Crispiness – Twisting the strips adds more texture and crunch.
• Experiment with Cheese – Try gouda, provolone, or parmesan for a different flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping the Egg Wash – It gives the sticks a beautiful golden color and helps them crisp up.
• Not Preheating the Oven – A hot oven is essential for achieving the best rise in puff pastry.
• Using Wet Ingredients – Avoid overly wet ingredients like fresh tomatoes, as they can make the pastry soggy.

Serving and Presentation Ideas

These puff pastry sticks with ham and cheese look amazing on a serving platter, but here are some ways to elevate their presentation:

• Serve with dipping sauces like honey mustard, marinara, or garlic aioli.
• Pair with a fresh salad for a light meal.
• Arrange in a basket lined with parchment paper for a rustic, bakery-style look.

How to Store and Reheat

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating Instructions

To keep them crispy, reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-7 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the pastry soft and chewy instead of crisp.

Variations & Substitutions

Want to try something different? Here are some easy swaps and variations:

• Vegetarian Option – Skip the ham and add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted red peppers.
• Spicy Version – Add red pepper flakes or jalapeño slices for some heat.
• Breakfast Twist – Swap ham for cooked bacon and serve with scrambled eggs.
• Sweet & Savory – Use brie and honey instead of ham and cheese for a gourmet twist.

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FAQ About Puff Pastry Sticks with Ham and Cheese

Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the sticks, store them in the fridge, and bake when ready.

Can I freeze them?
Absolutely! Freeze unbaked sticks on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes.

Can I use store-bought puff pastry?
Yes! Store-bought puff pastry works perfectly and saves time.

What cheese works best?
Cheddar, Swiss, mozzarella, or gouda are great choices. Avoid very soft cheeses like fresh mozzarella, as they release too much moisture.

Conclusion

These puff pastry sticks with ham and cheese are a must-try for anyone who loves a crispy, cheesy, and satisfying snack. With their golden, flaky layers and rich filling, they’re guaranteed to be a hit at any gathering. Whether you serve them as easy finger food for a party or a quick snack for your family, they’re always a winner.

If you enjoyed this puff pastry recipe, don’t forget to share it with friends and subscribe for more delicious ideas! Happy baking!

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