Crispy Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Squares Recipe

Looking for a simple yet elegant appetizer or snack to impress your guests? These Crispy Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Squares are the perfect solution. Made with layers of buttery puff pastry, savory ham, and melted Swiss cheese, they’re easy to prepare and packed with flavor. Whether you’re hosting a party, planning a quick lunch, or just indulging in a treat, these golden pastries are a hit. Let’s dive into this crowd-pleasing recipe that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum taste.

Ingredients

• Puff Pastry: 1 package (about 1 pound), thawed
• Ham: 8 slices
• Swiss Cheese: 8 slices
• Egg: 1, beaten (for egg wash)
• Optional: Mustard or mayonnaise for spreading

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven
   Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
2. Prepare the Puff Pastry
   • Unfold the thawed puff pastry on a lightly floured surface.
   • If it’s not pre-rolled, use a rolling pin to flatten it into a rectangle, about 1/8-inch thick.
   • Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, divide the pastry into equal squares (roughly 4 inches by 4 inches).
3. Assemble the Pastry Squares
   • If desired, spread a thin layer of mustard or mayonnaise on one side of each puff pastry square.
   • Place a slice of ham and a slice of Swiss cheese onto half of the squares, leaving a small border around the edges.
   • Top with the remaining puff pastry squares to create sandwiches.
4. Seal the Edges
   • Press the edges of the pastry squares together using your fingers or a fork to seal them tightly. This prevents the filling from leaking during baking.
5. Apply the Egg Wash
   • Brush the tops of each pastry square with the beaten egg. This gives the pastries a golden, glossy finish.
6. Bake to Perfection
   • Transfer the assembled pastries to the prepared baking sheet.
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown.
7. Cool and Serve
   • Remove the pastries from the oven and let them cool for 5 minutes before serving.
   • Serve them warm for the best flavor and texture.

Tips for Success

• Customization: Experiment with different fillings, such as turkey, cheddar cheese, or even roasted vegetables.
• Make Ahead: You can assemble the pastries ahead of time and refrigerate them until ready to bake.
• Serving Suggestion: Pair these puff pastry squares with a fresh salad or a bowl of soup for a complete meal.

These Crispy Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Squares are a delightful combination of flaky pastry, savory ham, and gooey cheese. Perfect for any occasion, they’re sure to be a hit with both kids and adults. Whether you’re whipping them up as a quick snack or presenting them as an elegant appetizer, this recipe is bound to impress. Best of all, they’re easy to make and endlessly versatile. Try this recipe today and savor the satisfaction of creating a delicious, homemade treat that’s guaranteed to disappear in no time!