If you're looking for a quick, crowd-pleasing appetizer or party snack, these Puff Pastry Bites with Ham and Cheese are just the thing. Made with flaky puff pastry, savory ham, and melty cheese, these mini bites come together in minutes and bake up golden and irresistible. Whether you’re hosting friends or want a warm treat for the family, this recipe is easy, elegant, and packed with flavor.
Why Everyone Will Love This Recipe
- Fast and foolproof – only a few ingredients and 20 minutes in the oven.
- Family-friendly – perfect for kids’ lunches, after-school snacks, or game night.
- Customizable – swap out fillings to suit your cravings.
- Visually appealing – golden pastry with sesame seeds adds texture and color.
What Are Puff Pastry Bites?
Puff pastry bites are small, savory pastries made by wrapping puff pastry dough around a flavorful filling—often a combination of meats, cheeses, or vegetables—and baking until crisp and golden. Inspired by classic French and Mediterranean baking techniques, these easy snacks are a favorite for entertaining thanks to their versatility and delicious contrast of flaky crust and melty center. They’re essentially mini hand pies or savory pinwheels, but even easier to assemble.
Pro Tips for the Best Puff Pastry Bites
- Use cold puff pastry to make rolling and cutting easier.
- Don't overfill – too much cheese or ham can cause leaking during baking.
- Brush with egg wash to get that golden, shiny finish.
- Try other toppings – swap sesame seeds for poppy seeds, or add grated Parmesan.
- Make it vegetarian by replacing ham with sautéed mushrooms or spinach.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Homemade Puff Pastry?
Yes, but store-bought puff pastry works perfectly and saves time—just make sure it’s thawed but still cold when working with it.
What’s the Best Cheese for These Bites?
Firm, melty cheeses like mozzarella, provolone, or gouda work great. Avoid very soft or runny cheeses that might ooze out.
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Absolutely. Assemble and refrigerate the bites for a few hours before baking. Bake fresh when ready to serve.
How Do I Keep the Pastry from Getting Soggy?
Avoid wet or watery fillings. Pat any vegetables or meats dry before using, and don’t skip preheating the oven—it helps the pastry puff up quickly.
How to Store Puff Pastry Bites
Let the pastries cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container. They’ll keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5–7 minutes to restore crispiness—avoid the microwave as it will soften the pastry.
How to Freeze Puff Pastry Bites
To freeze, prepare the bites but don’t bake them. Arrange on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then store in a zip-top freezer bag for up to 1 month. Bake straight from frozen at 375°F (190°C), adding about 5 extra minutes to the baking time. You can also freeze baked bites, though the pastry will lose a bit of its flakiness upon reheating.
Ingredients
How to Make Puff Pastry Bites
Start by unrolling your puff pastry on a flat surface. Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, divide the sheet into three long, equal strips. Lay slices of cooked ham along each strip, followed by sticks of cheese placed right down the center. This layering gives each bite that gooey, savory core.
To seal the rolls, lightly brush one edge of each strip with the beaten egg. Gently roll up the pastry from the opposite side, enclosing the filling snugly and pressing the egg-washed edge to seal the seam. You’ll now have three pastry logs filled with deliciousness.
Slice each roll into even bite-sized pieces. Arrange the mini pastries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them slightly apart to allow for puffing.
Brush the tops with more beaten egg to help them brown beautifully, then sprinkle generously with white and black sesame seeds for a tasty and decorative finish.
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Start by unrolling your puff pastry on a flat surface. Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, divide the sheet into three long, equal strips. Lay slices of cooked ham along each strip, followed by sticks of cheese placed right down the center. This layering gives each bite that gooey, savory core.
Bake in a preheated oven at 190°C (374°F) for about 20 minutes, or until the bites are puffed and golden brown. Let them cool slightly before serving—they’re best enjoyed warm when the cheese is still melty and the pastry is crisp.
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