🧀🥓 Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Sticks
🍽️ Servings: ~12 sticks
⏰ Time: 30 minutes (10 min prep + 20 min bake)
📝 Ingredients:
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1 sheet puff pastry, thawed (store-bought, about 9×9 inches)
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4–5 slices ham (thinly sliced)
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½ to 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, gruyère, or a mix)
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1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
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1 tsp mustard or mayonnaise (optional, for flavor)
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1 tsp sesame seeds or poppy seeds (optional topping)
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Pinch of black pepper or paprika (optional for flavor)
🔥 Instructions:
1. Preheat Oven:
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Preheat to 400°F (200°C).
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Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Puff Pastry:
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Lightly roll out the puff pastry to even it out.
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If using mustard/mayo, lightly spread a thin layer on half of the sheet.
3. Add Fillings:
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Lay ham slices evenly over one half of the pastry.
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Sprinkle shredded cheese generously over the ham.
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Fold the pastry sheet in half over the filling and press lightly.
4. Cut and Twist:
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Slice into ½ to 1-inch strips using a sharp knife or pizza cutter.
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Twist each strip a few times and place on the baking sheet.
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Brush with beaten egg.
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Sprinkle with seeds, pepper, or paprika if using.
5. Bake:
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Bake for 18–22 minutes or until golden and puffed.
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Let cool slightly before serving.
🧊 Make-Ahead Tip:
Assemble and freeze uncooked sticks on a tray. Once frozen, transfer to a bag. Bake from frozen at 400°F, adding 2–4 minutes.
🧡 Variations:
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Swap ham for turkey, bacon, or spinach for a vegetarian version.
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Add a touch of Dijon mustard or honey inside for flavor kick.
Would you like a video-style step-by-step or a mini version for party trays?