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Step 4: Roll the Pastry Strips
- Roll each strip: Starting from one end of the pastry strip, carefully roll the puff pastry into a spiral, encasing the ham and cheese inside. The result should be a little cheese and ham-filled puff pastry roll. Repeat with the remaining strips.
- Place on a baking sheet: Arrange the rolled puff pastry sticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Make sure there’s a little space between each stick so they can bake evenly.
Step 5: Brush and Bake
- Brush with olive oil: For an extra golden and crispy finish, lightly brush the top of each puff pastry stick with olive oil. This is optional, but it helps with browning and adds flavor.
- Bake in the oven: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes or until the puff pastry is golden brown and the cheese is melted. Keep an eye on them towards the end to prevent burning.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Once the puff pastry sticks are baked to perfection, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve them warm as a snack or appetizer, and watch them disappear quickly!
Why This Recipe Works
- Puff pastry: The star ingredient here is the puff pastry. Its buttery, flaky layers are the perfect base for the savory filling inside. When baked, it turns into a light, crispy snack that’s irresistible.
- Ham and cheese combo: The salty ham and the melty cheese are a classic flavor pairing that works perfectly with the texture of the puff pastry. Together, they create a rich, savory treat that’s hard to beat.
- Quick and easy: With only 4 ingredients, this recipe is incredibly easy to whip up in a short amount of time. It’s great for when you need a tasty treat with minimal effort.
Tips and Variations
- Use different cheeses: Try different types of cheese such as Swiss, Gruyère, or Parmesan for unique flavor twists.
- Add herbs: For extra flavor, sprinkle some dried oregano, garlic powder, or fresh thyme on the cheese before rolling up the pastry.
- Try different meats: Switch the ham for turkey, salami, or even prosciutto for different savory variations.
- Dipping sauce: Serve these puff pastry sticks with a side of dipping sauce, like mustard, ketchup, or a spicy aioli for an added flavor boost.
Healthier Twist
While this recipe is incredibly indulgent, if you’re looking to lighten it up a bit, you can use a whole wheat puff pastry and opt for a low-fat cheese or use turkey ham for a leaner version. However, the beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and deliciousness, so feel free to indulge every now and then!
Conclusion
These Puff Pastry Sticks with Ham and Cheese are an easy, flavorful snack that will quickly become a favorite in your household. With just 4 ingredients, you can create a crispy, cheesy delight that’s perfect for parties, gatherings, or a quick snack for yourself. The best part is that they are incredibly customizable to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs.
Whether you’re entertaining guests or just looking for something simple and delicious, these puff pastry sticks are sure to impress. Try them out and enjoy the crispy, melty goodness today!
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