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Crispy Ham & Cheese Puff Pastry Stacks Recipe

Crispy Ham & Cheese Puff Pastry Stacks Recipe

5 from 6 reviews

Crispy Ham & Cheese Puff Pastry Stacks are a delightful savory treat featuring layers of tender ham and melted cheese encased in flaky, golden puff pastry. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or light meal, these stacks combine the rich flavors of Black Forest ham and melted cheddar cheese with a hint of tangy Dijon mustard, creating an irresistible combination. Quick and easy to prepare, they bake to a perfectly crisp finish and are ideal for entertaining or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

Pastry

  • 2 sheets puff pastry (thawed)
  • Flour (for dusting)

Filling

  • 8 slices ham (Black Forest, prosciutto, or honey-glazed)
  • 8 slices cheese (cheddar, Swiss, Gruyère, or mozzarella)
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional)

Finishing

  • 2 eggs beaten (for egg wash)

Instructions

  1. 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.
  2. Prepare Puff Pastry: Lightly dust a clean surface with flour and roll out one sheet of puff pastry slightly to smooth out creases and prepare it for layering.
  3. Layer Ham and Cheese: Evenly distribute the slices of ham over the rolled-out pastry sheet. If you like a bit of tang, spread 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard over the ham. Then layer the slices of cheese on top of the ham.
  4. Seal the Stack: Carefully place the second puff pastry sheet over the ham and cheese layers. Press the edges firmly to seal the stack completely and crimp the edges with a fork to secure and add a decorative touch.
  5. Apply Egg Wash: Brush the top and edges of the pastry stack with the beaten eggs. This egg wash will give the pastry a beautiful golden and glossy finish once baked.
  6. Bake: Place the pastry stack on the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes or until the pastry is puffed up, crispy, and golden brown.
  7. Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes to set. Slice into individual stacks and serve warm for the best flavor and texture.

Notes

  • Use your favorite type of ham and cheese to customize the flavor of the stacks.
  • If you prefer, omit the Dijon mustard or substitute with a different spread like honey mustard or mayo.
  • Ensure the puff pastry sheets are fully thawed for easy handling and better puff during baking.
  • The egg wash is crucial for a golden, crispy exterior but can be skipped for a lighter crust.
  • These stacks can be prepared in advance and baked right before serving to save time.
  • Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated in the oven for best texture retention.

Nutrition

Keywords: ham and cheese puff pastry, savory puff pastry, easy snack, appetizer recipe, baked ham stacks, cheese pastry stacks