Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pockets

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Sure! Here’s a delicious and easy Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pockets recipe — a warm, flaky, cheesy treat that’s perfect for breakfast, lunch, or as a quick snack. 🧀🥐

Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pockets

These golden, buttery pastries are stuffed with gooey melted cheese and savory ham — simple to make, yet impressive enough to serve for brunch, parties, or even weeknight dinners. Using store-bought puff pastry keeps it quick and foolproof!

Ingredients (Makes 6–8 pockets)

  • 2 sheets puff pastry, thawed (from a 17.3 oz box)
  • 8 slices ham (thinly sliced, any type you like)
  • 1 to 1½ cups shredded cheese (Swiss, cheddar, or mozzarella work great)
  • 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
  • 1 tablespoon water
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard or mayonnaise (optional, for extra flavor)
  • A pinch of black pepper (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.

2. Prepare the Pastry

Lightly flour your work surface and unfold the thawed puff pastry sheets.
Cut each sheet into 3 or 4 equal rectangles (depending on how large you want the pockets).

You’ll have 6–8 rectangles total.

3. Add the Filling

On half of the rectangles:

  • Spread a thin layer of mustard or mayonnaise (optional).
  • Place a slice of ham on top.
  • Sprinkle a generous spoonful of cheese over the ham.
  • Add a pinch of black pepper, if desired.

Leave about a ½-inch border around the edges for sealing.

4. Seal the Pockets

Brush the edges lightly with beaten egg.
Top each filled rectangle with another piece of puff pastry.
Press the edges firmly with a fork to seal them shut.

Use a sharp knife to cut 2–3 small slits on top of each pocket — this lets steam escape while baking.

5. Add the Egg Wash

Mix the beaten egg with 1 tablespoon of water.
Brush the tops of the pastries with this egg wash — it gives them a shiny, golden finish.

6. Bake

Place the pockets on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed.

7. Cool and Serve

Remove from the oven and let them cool for 5–10 minutes before serving.
Enjoy them warm with a side of honey mustard, ranch dip, or ketchup.

Optional Add-Ins & Variations

  • 🧅 Add caramelized onions or a few spinach leaves for extra flavor.
  • 🍅 Add a slice of tomato before baking for freshness.
  • 🥓 Use crispy bacon instead of ham for a smoky twist.
  • 🧄 Sprinkle garlic powder or herbs (like thyme or oregano) on top before baking.
  • 🧀 Try different cheeses — Swiss for classic flavor, cheddar for sharpness, or brie for indulgence.

Storage & Reheating

  • Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Freeze: Freeze unbaked or baked pockets for up to 1 month.
    • To bake from frozen: add 5–7 minutes to the baking time.
  • Reheat: Warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 8–10 minutes — they’ll get crisp again!

Serving Ideas

These puff pastry pockets pair perfectly with:

  • A fresh green salad
  • A bowl of tomato soup
  • A fruit salad for a light brunch combo

Quick Tip

For perfectly flaky layers, keep the puff pastry cold until ready to use. If it softens too much, chill the assembled pockets in the fridge for 10 minutes before baking.

In Summary

Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pockets are:

  • 🥐 Golden and flaky
  • 🧀 Gooey and cheesy
  • ⏱️ Quick to prepare
  • 🧡 Loved by both kids and adults

Perfect for busy mornings, lunchboxes, or cozy weekend treats — this recipe will quickly become a staple in your kitchen!

Would you like me to give you a mini version (bite-sized ham & cheese puff pastry bites) too? They’re perfect for parties and appetizers.

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