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.
Looking for a quick, crowd-pleasing appetizer? These puff pastry bites filled with ham and cheese are the ultimate party snack. They’re golden, flaky, and loaded with gooey melted cheese and savory ham—ready in less than 30 minutes. Perfect for family gatherings, game nights, or holiday tables!
Ingredients
- 1 sheet puff pastry (about 250 g / 9 oz), thawed if frozen
- 100 g (3.5 oz) cooked ham, thinly sliced or diced
- 100 g (3.5 oz) cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, gouda, or gruyere), cubed or shredded
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Sesame seeds or poppy seeds (optional, for topping)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pastry
- Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roll out the puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface to smooth it out.
Step 2: Cut and Fill
- Cut the pastry into small squares (about 2 x 2 inches).
- Place a small piece of ham and a cube or pinch of cheese in the center of each square.
Step 3: Fold and Seal
- Fold each square into a triangle or bundle, pinching the edges to seal well.
- Place on the baking sheet, seam side down.
- Brush the tops with beaten egg for a golden finish.
- Sprinkle with sesame or poppy seeds if desired.
Step 4: Bake
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes, or until puffed and golden brown.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm for the meltiest cheese experience.
- Pair with mustard dip, ranch, or a simple tomato sauce.
- Perfect as appetizers, lunchbox snacks, or finger food for parties.
Tips for Success
- Don’t overfill the bites—too much filling can cause them to burst open.
- Use different cheese varieties for fun flavor twists.
- These can be made ahead and baked straight from the freezer (just add 3–4 minutes extra baking time).
✨ Crispy, cheesy, and irresistibly delicious, these ham and cheese puff pastry bites will disappear fast—so make a double batch if you’re feeding a crowd!
