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Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pockets Recipe

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4.9 from 57 reviews

These Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pockets are a quick and delicious snack or light meal featuring flaky puff pastry filled with savory chicken ham and melted cheddar cheese. With an optional Dijon mustard layer to add a tangy depth, these golden-baked pockets make a perfect appetizer or lunchbox treat.

Ingredients

Pastry Base

  • 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
  • Flour, for dusting the surface

Fillings

  • 4 slices chicken ham
  • 4 slices cheddar cheese
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional)

Finishing

  • 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
  2. Prepare Pastry: Lightly dust your work surface with flour and roll out the thawed puff pastry sheet just slightly to smooth it out without thinning it too much.
  3. Cut Pastry: Cut the puff pastry into 4 equal squares, ensuring even sizes for consistent baking.
  4. Add Mustard Layer (Optional): If using, spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard over each pastry square to add a tangy flavor that complements the ham and cheese.
  5. Fill Pastry: Place one slice of chicken ham and one slice of cheddar cheese onto one half of each pastry square, layering them neatly.
  6. Seal Pockets: Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling to create a triangle or rectangular pocket. Press the edges firmly with a fork to seal and prevent leakage during baking.
  7. Apply Egg Wash: Brush the tops of each pocket with the beaten egg to achieve a beautiful golden and glossy finish once baked.
  8. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the puff pastry is fully puffed and has turned a golden brown color.
  9. Cool and Serve: Remove the pockets from the oven and allow them to cool for a few minutes to settle before serving warm.

Notes

  • Ensure the puff pastry is properly thawed but kept cold before rolling to maintain flakiness.
  • Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to get clean pastry squares without tearing.
  • Customize fillings by adding herbs like thyme or swapping ham for turkey or other deli meats.
  • For a crispier bottom, place the baking sheet on the lower rack of the oven.
  • These pockets can be made in advance and reheated in the oven to maintain texture.