Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Squares are the ultimate savory snack or party appetizer — golden, flaky, and filled with gooey melted cheese and smoky ham. These buttery bites come together with minimal effort, using store-bought puff pastry and simple ingredients, yet they look and taste like something straight from a French bakery. Perfect for brunches, quick lunches, or family gatherings, this recipe delivers both flavor and elegance in every crispy layer.
Ingredients
For the pastry
- 2 sheets of puff pastry, thawed (store-bought or homemade)
- 6–8 slices of cooked ham (smoked or honey ham works best)
- 6–8 slices of cheese (Swiss, cheddar, Gruyère, or mozzarella)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon water (to thin the egg wash)
Optional fillings and add-ins
- 2 tablespoons Dijon or honey mustard (for a flavorful kick)
- A few slices of tomato or caramelized onions
- Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking. - Prepare the puff pastry
Gently unfold the thawed puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface. Roll each sheet slightly with a rolling pin to smooth out the creases and make the dough even. Cut each sheet into even squares (about 3×3 inches or 8×8 cm). You should get around 12–16 squares, depending on the size of your pastry sheets. - Assemble the sandwiches
Place half of the pastry squares on the prepared baking sheet — these will form the bottom layers. Spread a thin layer of Dijon or honey mustard on each piece if desired. Add one slice of ham and one slice of cheese on top, folding or trimming them to fit neatly. Place another pastry square on top of each filled one to form sandwiches. - Seal and brush
Press the edges gently with a fork to seal the layers. This helps keep the cheese from leaking out while baking and gives the pastries a classic decorative touch. Mix the beaten egg with a tablespoon of water to create the egg wash, and brush it evenly over the tops of the pastries. This will give them a beautiful golden-brown shine once baked. - Bake until golden
Bake the puff pastry squares in the preheated oven for 18–22 minutes, or until the tops are puffed and golden brown. The cheese should be melted, and the layers flaky and crisp. - Cool and serve
Let the pastries cool for 5 minutes before serving. They’re best enjoyed warm, with the cheese still gooey. Sprinkle with chopped parsley or thyme for a touch of freshness and color.
Serving Suggestions
Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Squares are incredibly versatile. Serve them as:
- Appetizers: Cut into smaller bite-sized pieces for parties or gatherings.
- Breakfast or brunch: Pair with scrambled eggs, fruit, or fresh orange juice.
- Lunch or dinner: Serve alongside a light salad or bowl of soup for a complete meal.
- Snack: Perfect for an afternoon treat or picnic.
For dipping, try offering honey mustard, marinara sauce, or a creamy cheese dip. The combination of buttery pastry and salty ham with a tangy dip is irresistible.
Tips for Perfect Puff Pastry Squares
- Keep the dough cold: Puff pastry puffs best when cold. If it becomes too soft while assembling, place it back in the fridge for 10 minutes before baking.
- Don’t overfill: A modest amount of cheese and ham is enough — too much filling can cause the pastries to burst open during baking.
- Choose quality cheese: Use cheese that melts well and adds flavor, like Swiss or Gruyère, for a more gourmet result.
- Reheat properly: If you have leftovers, reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes to bring back the crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the pastry soggy.
Storage
Store any leftover puff pastry squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, let them cool completely, wrap individually in plastic wrap, and store in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from frozen in the oven until hot and crisp.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Squares combine simplicity, elegance, and comfort all in one. With their crisp, buttery layers and warm, cheesy filling, they’re impossible to resist. Whether you serve them for a weekend brunch, a quick weekday meal, or as a crowd-pleasing party snack, they’ll always deliver that freshly baked bakery-style perfection.