Crispy Ham & Cheese Puff Pastry Stacks Recipe
These Crispy Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Stacks feature flaky puff pastry layered with savory ham and melty cheese, finished with a golden egg wash. Ideal for brunch or a light dinner, they combine simplicity and impressive flavor in an easy-to-make, elegant dish.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins
- Total Time: 50 mins
- Yield: 8 puff pastry stacks 1x
- Category: Lunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
Puff Pastry Stack Ingredients
- 1 package (approximately 17.3 ounces) frozen puff pastry sheets, thawed
- 8 slices of ham
- 8 slices of cheese (Swiss, Gruyere, or Cheddar recommended)
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 tablespoon milk
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: fresh herbs (such as thyme or rosemary) for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easy.
- Prepare Puff Pastry: Roll out the thawed puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface to smooth out edges and slightly increase the size for even layering.
- Cut Pastry Squares: Cut each sheet into 4 equal squares, producing a total of 8 squares from the package.
- Make Egg Wash: In a small bowl, mix the beaten egg with 1 tablespoon of milk to create an egg wash that will help the pastry achieve a golden, crispy finish.
- Assemble Stacks: Place a slice of ham on each puff pastry square, optionally spreading a thin layer of Dijon mustard over the ham before adding a slice of cheese. Season with salt, pepper, and optionally sprinkle fresh herbs on top.
- Layer and Seal: Top each ham and cheese stack with another puff pastry square. Press gently to seal the edges and use a fork to crimp and decorate the edges, ensuring the pastry stays sealed while baking.
- Brush with Egg Wash: Brush the tops of the stacks with the prepared egg wash evenly to enhance browning and crispiness.
- Bake: Place the stacks spaced apart on the lined baking sheet, then bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until puffed and golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the stacks from the oven and let them cool for about 5 minutes before serving to allow the cheese to set slightly.
Notes
- Try different cheeses such as mozzarella or pepper jack for unique flavors.
- For extra flavor, add caramelized onions or a slice of ripe tomato between the ham and cheese layers.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and reheat in a toaster oven to retain crispiness.
- Serve these stacks with a fresh side salad or a warm bowl of tomato soup for a complete meal.
- Perfect for serving at brunch, lunch, or as a light dinner option.
Keywords: puff pastry, ham and cheese, easy recipes, brunch ideas, savory snacks, flaky pastries
