🧀🥓 Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pockets
🧂 Ingredients (Makes 4–6 pockets)
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1 sheet puff pastry (thawed if frozen)
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4–6 slices ham (cooked or deli-style)
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½ to 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Swiss, Gruyère, or mozzarella)
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1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
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1 tsp Dijon mustard or cream cheese (optional, for extra flavor)
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Black pepper or herbs (like thyme or parsley), optional
👨🍳 Instructions
1. Prep the Puff Pastry
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Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
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Lightly flour your surface and roll out the puff pastry to smooth it out.
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Cut into 4 or 6 rectangles or squares, depending on the size you want.
2. Assemble the Pockets
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On half of each pastry piece, spread a little mustard or cream cheese (optional).
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Add a slice of ham and a spoonful of cheese.
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Leave a small border around the edges.
3. Seal and Finish
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Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling to form a pocket.
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Press edges together with a fork to seal.
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Brush tops with beaten egg for a golden finish.
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(Optional) Sprinkle with black pepper, sesame seeds, or herbs.
4. Bake
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Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
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Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until puffed and golden brown.
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Let cool slightly before serving – cheese will be hot!
🍽️ Serving Ideas
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Great with a green salad, tomato soup, or just as a savory snack.
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Serve warm or room temperature – they’re also lunchbox-friendly.
🔄 Variations
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Breakfast version: Add scrambled eggs or bacon.
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Veggie twist: Add spinach, mushrooms, or caramelized onions.
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Mini version: Cut smaller pieces for bite-sized party snacks.
Would you like a make-ahead freezer version, or one with a sweet and savory combo (like adding apple slices or fig jam)?