Cheesy Ham Puff Twists

These golden, flaky ham and cheese sticks have been my go-to appetizer for years whenever I need something impressive yet effortless. The combination of buttery puff pastry, savory ham, and melted cheese creates an irresistible treat that disappears within minutes at any gathering.

I first made these twists for a last-minute dinner party when I had limited ingredients in my fridge. They were such a hit that guests started requesting them specifically whenever they visited, and now they're a staple in my entertaining repertoire.

• Puff pastry sheet: thawed beforehand ensures easy handling and proper rising during baking
• Deli ham: provides the perfect savory foundation without overpowering the other flavors
• Shredded cheddar cheese: creates that irresistible stretchy melt factor and sharp flavor
• Beaten egg: delivers that beautiful golden brown finish that makes these sticks visually appealing
• Sesame seeds: add a pleasant nutty crunch and elegant appearance to the finished product

How To Make Ham and Cheese Sticks

Prepare the oven:

Set your oven to 200°C and line your baking tray with parchment paper which prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze

Prepare the pastry:

Roll out the thawed puff pastry on a lightly floured surface until it forms an even rectangle making sure the thickness is consistent for even baking

Layer the ham:

Arrange the ham slices in a single layer across the entire surface of the pastry leaving a small border around the edges for sealing

Add the cheese:

Sprinkle the shredded cheddar evenly over the ham making sure to distribute it uniformly to ensure every bite has the perfect cheese to ham ratio

Fold and cut:

Carefully fold the pastry in half lengthwise to sandwich the filling pressing lightly along the edges to seal then use a sharp knife to cut into strips approximately 2.5 cm wide

Create the twists:

Gently twist each strip several times holding both ends and placing onto the prepared baking tray with a small space between each to allow for expansion

Finish and bake:

Brush each twist generously with beaten egg and sprinkle with sesame seeds if desired then bake for 12 to 15 minutes until they puff up beautifully and turn golden brown

The quality of your cheese makes a significant difference in these sticks. I once splurged on an aged cheddar for a holiday version, and my father-in-law, who rarely comments on food, asked for the recipe. That moment convinced me that sometimes simple ingredients deserve a small upgrade.

Make-Ahead Options

These ham and cheese sticks are perfect for preparing in advance. You can assemble them completely, place them on a baking sheet, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to serve, simply brush with egg wash and bake as directed, adding about 2 minutes to the cooking time since they'll be cold. This makes them ideal for entertaining when you want to minimize last-minute preparation.

Flavor Variations

The basic ham and cheese combination is wonderful, but this recipe welcomes customization. Try using smoked gouda instead of cheddar for a deeper flavor profile. Prosciutto can replace regular ham for a more upscale version. For an herby twist, sprinkle fresh chopped chives or thyme over the cheese layer before folding. My personal favorite variation includes a light spread of whole grain mustard on the pastry before adding ham, which adds a lovely tangy note that complements the richness of the cheese.

Serving Suggestions

These ham and cheese sticks shine in multiple settings. Serve them alongside a simple green salad for a light lunch, or arrange them on a platter with various dipping sauces like honey mustard or marinara for an appetizer spread. They make excellent additions to brunch buffets and pair wonderfully with soups. For a special touch at dinner parties, stand them vertically in a tall glass or vase lined with parchment paper for a dramatic presentation that always impresses guests.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I make these ham and cheese sticks ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare these up to the twisting stage, then refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. You can also freeze the unbaked twists for up to 1 month - just add 2-3 extra minutes to the baking time when cooking from frozen.

→ What other cheeses work well in this dish?

While cheddar provides excellent flavor and melt, you can substitute with gruyère, swiss, mozzarella, or a blend of your favorite cheeses. Each will offer a different flavor profile while maintaining that delicious gooey texture.

→ How do I keep the cheese from leaking out during baking?

Make sure to press the edges firmly when folding the pastry, and twist the strips tightly. You can also chill the assembled twists for 15 minutes before baking, which helps the pastry set and prevents excessive leaking during the baking process.

→ What can I serve with ham and cheese sticks?

These savory sticks pair wonderfully with dipping sauces like honey mustard, ranch dressing, or marinara. They also complement soups and salads perfectly, or can be served as part of an appetizer spread with olives, pickles, and other finger foods.

→ Can I use other meats instead of ham?

Absolutely! Prosciutto, turkey, salami, or even smoked salmon work beautifully. For a vegetarian option, omit the meat entirely and add extra cheese or include thin slices of roasted vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini.

→ How do I store and reheat leftover ham and cheese sticks?

Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a preheated 350°F/180°C oven for 5-7 minutes until crisp and heated through. Avoid microwaving as this will make the pastry soggy.