Crispy Ham & Cheese Puff Pastry Stacks Recipe
These Crispy Ham & Cheese Puff Pastry Stacks are a delightful and easy-to-make appetizer or snack featuring flaky puff pastry layered with savory ham and melted cheese. Enhanced with a hint of Dijon mustard and optional fresh herbs, these golden-brown stacks bake to perfection, offering a crispy exterior with a gooey, flavorful center. Perfect for entertaining or a satisfying bite anytime.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 8 puff pastry stacks 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
Pastry
- 1 package (approximately 17.3 ounces) frozen puff pastry sheets, thawed
Fillings & Seasoning
- 8 slices of ham
- 8 slices of cheese (Swiss, Gruyere, or Cheddar recommended)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: fresh herbs (such as thyme or rosemary) for garnish
Egg Wash
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 tablespoon milk
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Prepare Puff Pastry: Roll out the thawed puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface to smooth the edges and slightly increase their size for easier handling and uniformity.
- Cut Pastry Squares: Cut each puff pastry sheet into 4 equal squares, yielding a total of 8 squares from one package.
- Make Egg Wash: In a small bowl, whisk together the beaten egg and 1 tablespoon of milk to create an egg wash that will give the pastry a golden, glossy finish.
- Assemble Stacks: Place one slice of ham on each puff pastry square, optionally spreading a thin layer of Dijon mustard over the ham for added flavor. Then add a slice of cheese on top.
- Season and Garnish: Lightly season each stack with salt and pepper, and if desired, sprinkle fresh herbs over the cheese to enhance the aroma and taste.
- Seal Stacks: Top each stack with another puff pastry square, pressing gently to seal the edges. Crimp the edges with a fork for a decorative effect and to keep the filling inside while baking.
- Apply Egg Wash: Brush the tops of each puff pastry stack with the prepared egg wash to help achieve a beautifully golden and crispy exterior.
- Bake: Arrange the stacks on the parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving some space between them to allow for expansion. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until puffed up and golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from oven and let the stacks cool slightly before serving to allow the filling to set slightly and prevent burning your mouth.
Notes
- Ensure puff pastry is fully thawed and cold before rolling for best results.
- Feel free to substitute ham with turkey or roast beef for variation.
- Choose your favorite cheese; Swiss and Gruyere add a nutty flavor, while Cheddar is sharper.
- The Dijon mustard adds tanginess but can be omitted for a milder taste.
- To keep stacks crispy, serve shortly after baking.
- These stacks can be made ahead and baked just before serving for convenience.
Keywords: Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry, Puff Pastry Stacks, Appetizer, Baked Snack, Ham and Cheese Snack, Easy Puff Pastry Recipe
