Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry

Name: Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 8 servings
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 1 package puff pastry (thawed if frozen, about 450 g / 16 oz); 200 g deli ham (sliced); 200 g Gruyère cheese (grated); 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash); 1 tbsp water (mixed with egg for egg wash)

45 min 8 servings Easy

All Recipes

Crispy and golden, these ham and cheese puff pastries are a delightful appetizer or snack that's simple to prepare and perfect for any occasion.

Prep

20 min

Cook

25 min

Total

45 min

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

The ham and cheese puff pastry, or 'feuilleté au jambon et au fromage,' is a classic French appetizer that combines the rich flavours of ham and cheese enveloped in a light, flaky puff pastry. This dish is perfect for those who appreciate the delicate balance of buttery pastry and savoury filling. Originating as a popular snack in French bakeries, this puff pastry is both versatile and satisfying. Whether enjoyed warm from the oven or at room temperature, it's an ideal choice for entertaining guests or simply indulging in a comforting treat.

Instructions

Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Prepare the puff pastry

Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to smooth out any creases.

Pro tip: Keep the pastry cold for easier handling.

Assemble the pastries

Cut the pastry into 8 equal rectangles. Place a slice of ham and a sprinkle of cheese on one half of each rectangle, leaving a border for sealing.

Pro tip: Avoid overfilling to prevent leakage.

Seal the pastries

Brush the edges with the egg wash, fold the pastry over the filling, and press the edges with a fork to seal.

Pro tip: Ensure a tight seal to keep the filling inside during baking.

Prepare for baking

Transfer the pastries to the prepared baking sheet and brush the tops with the remaining egg wash.

Pro tip: This will give the pastries a golden, shiny finish.

Bake the pastries

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastries are golden brown and puffed.

Pro tip: Rotate the baking sheet halfway through for even baking.

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Tips & Tricks

Use cold puff pastry for easier handling and better puffing.
Experiment with different cheeses for varied flavours.
Seal the pastry edges well to prevent leakage during baking.
Ensure the oven is fully preheated for optimal puffiness.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I keep the puff pastry flaky?

Use cold puff pastry and ensure the oven is fully preheated before baking to achieve the best flakiness.

Can I use other types of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute Gruyère with cheddar, mozzarella, or your favourite cheese for different flavours.

How long do these pastries stay fresh?

They are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container and reheated in the oven for up to 2 days.

Can I freeze the puff pastries?

Yes, assemble them, then freeze unbaked. Bake directly from frozen, adding about 5 extra minutes.

What can I serve with these pastries?

They pair well with a light salad or a bowl of soup for a complete meal.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these ham and cheese puff pastries warm, accompanied by a side salad for a more complete meal. They also pair wonderfully with a glass of crisp white wine or sparkling cider. To make-ahead, prepare the pastries up to the baking step, then freeze them. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time. Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat in the oven for a few minutes to regain crispness.

Nutrition per serving

320

Calories

12g

Protein

19g

Fat

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