Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pockets
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
These delicious Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pockets are a perfect combination of flaky pastry and savory filling that will delight your taste buds.
Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pockets are a delightful treat that can be served as an appetizer, snack, or even a quick meal. The combination of creamy cheese and savory ham wrapped in golden, flaky pastry is irresistible!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Flaky pastry that adds a delightful crunch
- Savory ham and melty cheese combination
- Perfect for parties, snacks, or quick meals
The Perfect Snack for Any Occasion
Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pockets are not just a treat for your taste buds; they are also incredibly versatile. Whether you're hosting a party, looking for a quick snack, or preparing a meal for your family, these pockets fit the bill perfectly. They can be served as an appetizer, a party snack, or even as a light lunch. Their flaky texture and savory filling make them a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love.
Additionally, these puff pastry pockets are easy to customize. You can experiment with different types of cheeses or add vegetables to the filling. Spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers can enhance both the flavor and nutritional value. This flexibility allows you to cater to different tastes and dietary preferences, making these pockets a great choice for any gathering.
Tips for Perfect Puff Pastry Pockets
To ensure that your Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pockets turn out perfectly, there are a few tips to keep in mind. First, make sure your puff pastry is thoroughly thawed before rolling it out. This will help it maintain its flaky texture. If the pastry is too cold, it may crack, and if it's too warm, it might become difficult to handle.
When sealing the pockets, be sure to press the edges firmly to prevent any filling from leaking out during baking. Crimping with a fork not only seals them but also adds an attractive decorative touch. Finally, don’t skip the egg wash; it gives the pockets a beautiful golden color and enhances their visual appeal.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to make these delicious pockets:
Ingredients
- 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
- 200g ham, diced
- 150g cheese (cheddar or your choice), grated
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: herbs like thyme or parsley for added flavor
Make sure all ingredients are fresh for the best taste!
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pockets:
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
Prepare the Pastry
Roll out the thawed puff pastry on a floured surface and cut it into squares, about 10x10 cm.
Add Filling
In the center of each square, place a tablespoon of diced ham and a tablespoon of grated cheese. Season with salt and pepper.
Seal the Pockets
Fold the pastry over to form a triangle and press the edges together to seal. Use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative touch.
Apply Egg Wash
Brush the tops of the pockets with the beaten egg for a golden finish.
Bake
Place the pockets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Serve
Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your delicious Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pockets!
These pockets are best enjoyed warm but can be stored in the fridge for a day or two.
Storage and Reheating
If you have any leftover Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pockets, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you're ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in the oven at a low temperature until warmed through. This will help maintain the crispiness of the pastry, ensuring a delightful eating experience.
For longer storage, you can freeze the uncooked pockets. Just prepare them as per the recipe, place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, and then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to bake, there's no need to thaw; just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Serving Suggestions
These Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pockets can be served alongside a variety of dips and sauces for added flavor. Consider pairing them with a tangy mustard, a creamy ranch dressing, or even a homemade tomato sauce. These accompaniments can elevate the dish even further, making it a memorable experience for your guests.
You can also serve them with a fresh salad or a side of roasted vegetables. A light salad with a vinaigrette dressing complements the richness of the pockets beautifully, while roasted veggies add a healthy twist. This combination transforms the snack into a well-rounded meal that is both satisfying and delicious.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use different fillings?
Absolutely! You can substitute the ham and cheese with chicken, vegetables, or any filling of your choice.
→ Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble them ahead of time and freeze them. Just bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
→ What can I serve with these pockets?
They pair well with a side salad, dipping sauces, or even a simple soup.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pockets
These delicious Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pockets are a perfect combination of flaky pastry and savory filling that will delight your taste buds.
Created by: Naomi Clarke
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 12 pockets
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
- 200g ham, diced
- 150g cheese (cheddar or your choice), grated
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: herbs like thyme or parsley for added flavor
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
Roll out the thawed puff pastry on a floured surface and cut it into squares, about 10x10 cm.
In the center of each square, place a tablespoon of diced ham and a tablespoon of grated cheese. Season with salt and pepper.
Fold the pastry over to form a triangle and press the edges together to seal. Use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative touch.
Brush the tops of the pockets with the beaten egg for a golden finish.
Place the pockets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your delicious Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pockets!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Total Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 25g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 0g
- Protein: 10g