Golden, flaky, and irresistibly cheesy, Ham and Cheese Sticks make the ultimate crowd-pleasing appetizer or snack in just 25 minutes.
Crispy on the outside with a melty, savory center, these portable bites deliver comfort food perfection with every pull-apart twist.
What You’ll Need for These Ham and Cheese Sticks
- Puff pastry – The buttery, flaky foundation that crisps up beautifully in the oven.
- Sliced ham – Savory, slightly smoky, and perfectly salty; choose a deli-fresh variety or your personal favorite.
- Shredded cheese – Melts into gooey richness; cheddar adds sharpness, Swiss brings a nutty note—pick your cheese adventure.
- Egg – Whisked into a glossy wash that ensures a golden, crisp finish.
- Mustard (optional) – Adds a tangy layer of flavor that cuts through the richness if you’re craving complexity.
How to Make Ham and Cheese Sticks (In a Nutshell)
Start by preheating your oven and lining your baking sheet for a fuss-free cleanup.
Roll out the puff pastry and slice it into uniform strips. If you’re using mustard, spread a touch on each one before layering on the ham and cheese.
Roll the strips from the filled end into tight spirals, then lay them seam-side down on your baking sheet.
Brush each stick with egg wash for that signature golden shine. A sprinkle of sesame or poppy seeds adds flair and crunch.
Bake until puffed and deeply golden, then let cool just enough to handle—and devour.
Bite-Sized Brilliance: Tips & Variations
For extra flakiness, ensure the puff pastry stays chilled until assembly. If it gets too soft, pop it in the fridge for a few minutes before rolling.
Mix and match fillings—turkey, salami, or even cooked bacon all shine in this format. Gouda, mozzarella, or pepper jack make excellent cheesy twists.
Want to make it spicy? Stir a little hot honey or Dijon into the mustard layer, or dust the finished sticks with chili flakes for a kick.
Keeping the Crunch: How to Store and Reheat
Store leftover ham and cheese sticks in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
To reheat and recapture their crispiness, warm them in a 375°F oven for 5–7 minutes. Avoid the microwave—it softens the pastry.
For longer storage, freeze unbaked rolled sticks on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding an extra 5 minutes to the cook time.
These ham and cheese sticks are a flaky, cheesy, and easy-to-love treat perfect for any occasion—game day, brunch, or a cozy night in.
Ham and Cheese Sticks
Ingredients
- 6 oz shredded cheese cheddar, Swiss, or preferred variety
- 1 tablespoon mustard optional
- 6 oz sliced deli ham or any variety of choice
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 egg for egg wash
- 1 sheet puff pastry thawed
- Sesame seeds or poppy seeds optional, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- On a lightly floured surface, unroll the thawed puff pastry sheet and gently flatten it out. Cut into strips approximately 1 inch wide by 6 inches long.
- If desired, spread a light layer of mustard across each pastry strip. Place a piece of ham and scatter a portion of shredded cheese on one end of each strip.
- Starting at the end with the ham and cheese, roll each strip tightly into a cylindrical stick. Transfer each to the prepared baking sheet, placing them seam-side down.
- Beat the egg in a small bowl and brush it evenly over the tops of each pastry stick. Sprinkle with sesame or poppy seeds if using.
- Bake for 15 to 20 minutes until the pastry is puffed and golden in color.
- Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly. Serve warm.
