Description
These Ham and Cheese Sticks feature flaky pastry filled with savory cheddar cheese and diced ham, making them a perfect snack or appetizer. Easy to prepare and deliciously satisfying, they are sure to impress at any gathering!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup diced ham
- 1/4 cup cold water
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Sesame seeds (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and black pepper. Whisk together to ensure even distribution.
- Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, work the butter into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese and diced ham, mixing evenly throughout the dough.
- Gradually add the cold water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing gently with a fork until the dough starts to come together. Be careful not to overwork the dough; it should be slightly sticky but manageable.
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently a few times until smooth. Shape into a disc, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll the chilled dough into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick.
- Cut the dough into strips about 1 inch wide and 4 inches long using a pizza cutter or sharp knife.
- Place a small amount of the remaining diced ham and shredded cheese at one end of each strip (about a tablespoon).
- Fold the dough over the filling to create a pocket and press the edges together to seal. Crimp the edges with a fork for a decorative touch.
- Place the assembled sticks on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each one.
- Brush the tops with the beaten egg and sprinkle with sesame seeds if desired.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed up. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes to prevent over-baking.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Transfer the ham and cheese sticks to a serving platter. They can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.
- Serve with a side of mustard or a tangy dipping sauce, or pair with a fresh salad or bowl of soup.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.
- For longer storage, freeze unbaked sticks individually on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Notes
- Der Teig darf während der Ruhezeit nicht bewegt werden.
- Für ein intensiveres Knoblaucharoma können mehr Zehen verwendet werden.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes