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Ham and Cheese Sticks

Ham and Cheese Sticks

These Ham and Cheese Sticks are a quick, savory snack featuring flavorful ham and melty cheese wrapped in flaky puff pastry or crescent dough. Perfect for parties, lunchboxes, or a simple after-school treat, they require minimal ingredients and come together in under 30 minutes. Customize with your favorite cheeses, seasonings, or dough types for a delicious, crowd-pleasing appetizer or snack.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • Ham slices – thinly sliced, good quality, about 6-8 slices
  • Cheese sticks – mozzarella or cheddar, 6-8 sticks
  • Puff pastry or crescent roll dough – one sheet or package, enough to make strips
  • Egg wash – 1 beaten egg

Optional Seasonings

  • Garlic powder – ½ teaspoon (optional)
  • Italian herbs (thyme, rosemary, or mixed herbs) – 1 teaspoon (optional)
  • Crushed red pepper flakes – a pinch, for spicy twist (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Your Dough: Roll out your puff pastry or crescent roll dough on a clean surface to an even thickness of about 1/8 inch. Use a rolling pin if necessary. Cut the dough into long rectangles or strips suitable for wrapping the ham and cheese.
  2. Assemble the Sticks: Place a slice of ham and a cheese stick at the edge of each dough strip. Carefully roll the dough over the ham and cheese, completely encasing them, and gently press to seal the edges. Repeat with all strips.
  3. Apply the Egg Wash: Whisk one egg and brush it evenly over each rolled stick to ensure a shiny, golden crust after baking.
  4. Bake Until Golden: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the sticks on a parchment-lined baking sheet with space between each to allow puffing. Bake for 15–20 minutes or until the dough is puffed and golden brown.
  5. Cool and Serve: Let the Ham and Cheese Sticks cool slightly on a wire rack to prevent sogginess. Serve warm for the best melty-cheese experience.

Notes

  • Keep your dough chilled before baking to help it puff beautifully.
  • Avoid overfilling with ham or cheese to prevent dough tearing or leaking.
  • Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter for clean, straight cuts of dough strips.
  • Mix a little water or milk with the egg wash for a subtler crust sheen.
  • Check baking time early (start at 15 minutes) to prevent overbaking and drying out the sticks.

Nutrition

Keywords: ham and cheese sticks, savory snack, easy appetizer, party snack, kids' lunchbox snack, quick snack, puff pastry snack