Ham and Cheese Puffs
User Reviews
5
Ham and Cheese Puffs
Description
This recipe involves cutting partially thawed puff pastry into squares, spreading Dijon mustard diagonally, then layering with shaved ham and shredded cheddar cheese. Each square is folded into a parcel by overlapping corners, sealed using beaten egg yolk, and placed on a baking tray. Brushing the tops with egg before baking contributes to an even golden color. Baking at 200°C (425°F) yields puffed, deeply golden pastries with crisp exteriors and soft, cheesy, and savory fillings.
Ham and Cheese Puffs serve well warm, making them appropriate for finger food at gatherings or a quick snack. The blend of spicy mustard, salty ham, and creamy cheese inside flaky pastry creates a familiar flavor profile with a satisfying mouthfeel.
Cheese choice affects flavor and texture; cheddar works well, but mozzarella can be used with a parmesan addition for more flavor. These puffs store for two days refrigerated and reheat well in an oven. They also freeze for up to two months once cooked and reheat retaining quality. Assembling ahead and refrigerating before baking is possible for convenience.
Ingredients
- 2 puff pastry 25cm/10" square, sheets
- 4 - 5 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 8 oz/250g ham shaved
- 2 cups cheddar cheese or any other melting cheese) (Note 1, shredded
- 2 egg or 1 egg - Note 2, yolk
- cooking spray
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 200°C/425°F (180°C fan-forced). Spray 2 baking trays lightly with oil or line with baking paper (parchment paper).
- Puff pastry - Let the puff pastry partially defrost then cut into 9 x 8cm/3.5" squares.
- Spread about 1/2 tsp of mustard diagonally across each square.
- Top with ham and sprinkle with cheese.
- Wrap - Dab one corner with egg yolk using a brush. Fold the opposite corner over the filling first, then fold the corner with the egg yolk over it and press down to bond. Place on baking tray then repeating with remaining squares.
- Bake - Brush the top with egg. Bake for 15 minutes or until deep golden brown and puffed.
- Serve warm!
Notes
- Pre-shredded cheese can be replaced with sliced cheese cut into thin batons for easier folding.
- Mozzarella cheese is milder; add parmesan to enhance flavor if used.
- Brushing with whole egg or just yolk affects the golden color; yolk creates a deeper golden finish.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for 2 days and reheated in a 180°C (350°F) oven for 5 minutes.
- Cooked puffs freeze well up to 2 months and should be reheated in a 180°C (350°F) oven for about 12 minutes.
- You can assemble the puffs ahead and refrigerate before baking for convenience.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
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