Introduction
Indulge in the delightful combination of flaky pastry, savory ham, and rich cheese with this delectable puff pastry recipe. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in, these pastry bites are simple to make and provide a satisfying crunch paired with gooey melted cheese. With the addition of fresh herbs and sesame seeds, these treats not only taste great but also look beautiful on any table.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
2 sheets frozen puff pastry, thawed
4 slices deli ham, torn into pieces
¾ cup freshly grated Swiss or Gruyère cheese
1 egg + 1 teaspoon water, lightly beaten (for egg wash)
Fresh herbs, for topping
Parmesan cheese, for topping
Sesame seeds, for topping
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
25 minutes
Total Time
40 minutes
Yield
Serves approximately 4-6 people
Follow these steps to create an impressive and delicious dish that will surely be a hit among family and friends. Enjoy the preparation, baking, and, most importantly, the tasting!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
Prepare the Puff Pastry
Unfold the thawed puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface.
Cut the Puff Pastry
Using a large plate or similar object, cut out a large circle from each sheet of puff pastry.
Place First Circle on Baking Sheet
Place one puff pastry circle on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Add Ham
Evenly distribute the torn ham pieces over the pastry circle.
Add Cheese
Sprinkle the grated Swiss or Gruyère cheese over the ham.
Layer the Second Puff Pastry Circle
Place the second puff pastry circle on top, aligning it with the bottom circle.
Create Center Circle
Using a small biscuit cutter or similar object, press a circle in the center of the layered pastry, being careful not to cut all the way through.
Make Strips
With a sharp knife, make cuts from the edge of the center circle to the outer edge of the pastry, creating strips approximately 1 inch wide.
Twist the Strips
Gently twist each strip several times to create a spiral effect.
Brush with Egg Wash
Brush the entire pastry with the egg wash.
Add Toppings
Sprinkle the top with sesame seeds, fresh herbs, and grated Parmesan cheese.
Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and puffed.
Cool Before Serving
Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
Puff Pastry Thawing
Ensure that the puff pastry is fully thawed before using for best results.
Cheese Variations
Feel free to substitute with other cheeses such as cheddar or mozzarella for different flavors.
Fresh Herbs
Use a variety of fresh herbs such as thyme, chives, or parsley for added freshness and taste.
Serving Suggestions
This dish can be served as an appetizer or a main course paired with a salad.
Cook techniques
Thawing Puff Pastry
To ensure the puff pastry unfolds easily, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for about 30 minutes before use.
Cutting Puff Pastry
Use a large plate or a round cutter to create evenly sized pastry circles. Make sure to apply gentle pressure to avoid tearing.
Layering Ingredients
Evenly distribute ingredients like ham and cheese across the pastry circle for balanced flavors in every bite. Consider placing a light layer of cheese on top of the ham to create a cohesive bond.
Creating Spiral Strips
When cutting the strips, stop short of cutting through the center circle to maintain the structure of the pastry. Gently twisting each strip adds a beautiful presentation and helps the pastry puff.
Applying Egg Wash
An egg wash enhances the color and shine of the finished pastry. Make sure to cover the entire surface to achieve an even golden-brown finish.
Selecting Toppings
Feel free to customize toppings like fresh herbs, Parmesan cheese, and sesame seeds. These add not only flavor but also a textural contrast to the flaky pastry.
FAQ
Can I use other types of cheese instead of Swiss or Gruyère?
Yes, feel free to substitute with cheeses like cheddar, mozzarella, or any cheese that melts well.
How do I store leftover pastry?
Store any leftover baked pastry in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven to restore crispiness.
Can I freeze the assembled pastry before baking?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled pastry. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag for up to 1 month. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What can I serve with the puff pastry?
This pastry pairs well with a side salad, soup, or can be served as an appetizer at gatherings.
How do I ensure the pastry puffs up nicely?
Make sure to bake it at the right temperature, and do not overwork the dough while handling it. Also, ensure there is enough space between pastries on the baking sheet for proper airflow.
Conclusion
The delightful combination of flaky puff pastry, savory ham, and rich cheese creates a perfect appetizer or snack that is sure to impress. The twisted design adds an artistic touch, making it not only delicious but visually appealing as well. Enjoy these tasty pastries warm from the oven, topped with fresh herbs and Parmesan for an extra burst of flavor.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Cheesy Spinach and Feta Puffs
Replace the ham with sautéed spinach and crumbled feta cheese for a delicious vegetarian option.
Mushroom and Gruyère Tart
Add sautéed mushrooms and leeks along with Gruyère cheese for a rich and earthy flavor blend.
Ham and Apple Brie Bites
Incorporate slices of tart apples and creamy Brie cheese with the ham for a sweet and savory treat.
Caprese Puff Pastries
Use fresh mozzarella, basil, and tomatoes to create a refreshing take on puff pastry, drizzled with balsamic glaze.
Buffalo Chicken Puffs
Mix shredded cooked chicken with buffalo sauce and blue cheese to create a spicy snack perfect for game day.
Classic Spinach and Cheese Strudel
Fill puff pastry with a mixture of ricotta, mozzarella, and fresh spinach for a classic dish that serves beautifully as an appetizer.
