Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute cheddar with mozzarella, Swiss, or any preferred melting cheese for varied flavor.

How should I store leftovers?

Keep cooled sticks in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.

Can I prepare these in advance?

Prepare and assemble ahead, then refrigerate, and bake fresh when ready to serve for optimal texture and flavor.

Do I have to use sesame seeds?

Sesame seeds are optional; you can omit them or substitute with poppy seeds or grated parmesan for extra interest.

Can I freeze the dough with fillings?

Yes, assemble and freeze unbaked sticks on a tray. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the oven time.

Ham and Cheese Sticks with Flaky Puff Pastry

A plate of ham and cheese sticks, ready to be enjoyed. | myhomemaderecipe.com

Ham and cheese sticks are the ultimate snack for gatherings and lazy afternoons. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a batch that rivals any bakery’s, and they disappear fast at every party I host.

These are a lifesaver when guests show up unexpectedly or you need a warm comfort food to share. My family asks for these every movie night and not one stick is ever left behind.

Ingredients

Puff pastry sheet: brings all the crisp and flakiness use good quality butter based pastry for best results
Deli ham: classic for savory flavor look for fresh and not overly processed slices
Shredded cheddar cheese: melts beautifully try to grate your own for the best melt
Egg: brushed on top for shine and color spring for a fresh egg for rich color
Sesame seeds: add a gentle crunch and nutty taste optional but elevates the finish lightly toasted seeds give extra aroma if you use them

Instructions

Prep and preheat:: Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit Place a piece of parchment paper on a baking sheet so clean up is a breeze
Layer the pastry:: Lay out the thawed puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to prevent sticking Place slices of ham evenly so every stick gets plenty of flavor
Add the cheese:: Evenly sprinkle shredded cheddar across the ham Make sure the cheese reaches the edges for full coverage Once I started grating cheese fresh the results were far creamier
Fold seal and slice:: Fold the pastry in half gently Align the edges as best you can and press lightly to seal Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to cut the pastry into one inch wide strips Even strips give you even baking
Shape and top:: Take each strip and twist it several times to form a spiral Carefully move the twists to your lined baking sheet Brush all sides with beaten egg for a glossy golden finish Sprinkle sesame seeds on top for extra flavor if you like
Bake until golden:: Place the tray in your oven and bake for twelve to fifteen minutes You are looking for puffed pastry that is deep golden and crispy Watch closely as ovens vary and you want that perfect color

A plate of ham and cheese sticks, a delicious and easy-to-make appetizer. | myhomemaderecipe.com

This recipe’s magic is the way puff pastry turns so shatteringly crisp outside while the cheese stays bubbly and rich I always reach for the sharpest cheddar I can find because the tang stands up to the buttery layers so well My youngest once volunteered to help twist the strips and now it is our weekend ritual

Storage Tips

Ham and cheese sticks keep well in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days For longer storage refrigerate and reheat in the oven to bring back that signature crunch Avoid microwaving as it softens the pastry

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap in turkey or roast beef in place of ham Any melty cheese such as mozzarella or Swiss works beautifully If you want a vegetarian option roasted vegetables like peppers or mushrooms make a flavorful filling

Serving Suggestions

Serve as a snack with honey mustard or ranch for dipping Perfect for lunchboxes or to round out a brunch spread At parties I cut them smaller so there are more to go around and they are always the first appetizer gone

Cultural Context

Savory pastries are beloved across Europe where every country has its version of a ham and cheese treat Puff pastry itself has a long tradition in French cuisine and the combo of salty meat and cheese inside delicate pastry never loses its charm

A plate of ham and cheese sticks, a popular appetizer or snack. | myhomemaderecipe.com

With this simple recipe you can turn a handful of everyday staples into an unforgettable snack or light meal These sticks are so comforting and easy that they have become my cure for hectic days and last-minute cravings

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use different types of cheese?: Yes, you can substitute cheddar with mozzarella, Swiss, or any preferred melting cheese for varied flavor.
→ How should I store leftovers?: Keep cooled sticks in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.
→ Can I prepare these in advance?: Prepare and assemble ahead, then refrigerate, and bake fresh when ready to serve for optimal texture and flavor.
→ Do I have to use sesame seeds?: Sesame seeds are optional; you can omit them or substitute with poppy seeds or grated parmesan for extra interest.
→ Can I freeze the dough with fillings?: Yes, assemble and freeze unbaked sticks on a tray. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the oven time.