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Crispy Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Stacks

crispy ham and cheese puff pastry stacks - featured image

These crispy puff pastry stacks combine flaky layers with gooey cheese and savory ham for a quick, easy, and delicious snack perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 package frozen puff pastry sheets, thawed
  • 8 oz thinly sliced deli ham or leftover baked ham
  • 8 oz Swiss cheese, Gruyère, or cheddar, sliced
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
  • Fresh thyme or rosemary (optional)
  • 1 egg, beaten with 1 tablespoon water (egg wash)

Instructions

  1. Thaw puff pastry according to package instructions, about 40 minutes at room temperature. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Lightly flour your surface and roll each puff pastry sheet gently to smooth and slightly enlarge it to about 12×12 inches.
  3. Cut the pastry sheets into 3-inch squares, about 16 squares per sheet.
  4. Brush a light layer of melted butter on one pastry square. If using, spread a thin smear of Dijon mustard.
  5. Add a slice of ham and a piece of cheese on top.
  6. Top with another square of puff pastry and gently press the edges to seal.
  7. Repeat for all stacks.
  8. Brush the tops and edges of each stack with the egg wash for a golden finish.
  9. Place the stacks on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each.
  10. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown.
  11. Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes on the tray to allow cheese to set.
  12. Serve warm.

Notes

Keep puff pastry cold and work quickly to ensure maximum puff. Avoid overly wet ham to prevent sogginess. Egg wash is essential for a shiny, golden finish. If pastry browns too fast, loosely cover with foil midway through baking. Stacks can be assembled ahead and refrigerated up to 2 hours before baking. Freeze individually for up to 2 months and bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.

Nutrition

Keywords: ham, cheese, puff pastry, snack, appetizer, easy recipe, quick snack, crispy, savory