Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pockets are buttery, golden, and delightfully flaky hand-held treats filled with savory ham and melty cheese. They’re perfect for breakfast on-the-go, brunch spreads, quick lunches, or even a light dinner paired with soup or salad.
Wrapped in crisp layers of puff pastry, each bite delivers that unbeatable combo of salty, smoky ham and rich cheese, all encased in a delicate crunch. Think of it as a gourmet take on a classic ham-and-cheese sandwich, but with the elegance and texture of a French pastry.
These pockets are easy to customize and even easier to devour. Whether you’re entertaining guests or simply indulging in some weekday comfort food, they’ll never disappoint.
🧀 Ingredients:
For the Puff Pastry Pockets:
- 2 sheets of puff pastry (thawed if frozen)
- 8 slices of deli ham (thinly sliced, about 6 oz)
- 1 cup shredded or sliced cheese (Swiss, Gruyère, cheddar, or mozzarella work well)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon water (to mix with the egg)
- Black pepper, to taste
- Optional: a sprinkle of dried thyme or parsley
For Serving (Optional):
- Honey mustard, Dijon, or ranch dipping sauce
- Mixed greens or tomato soup on the side
👨🍳 Instructions:
1. Preheat & Prepare:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
Lightly flour your work surface and unfold or roll out your puff pastry sheets. If using frozen pastry, let it thaw in the fridge for about 30–40 minutes or on the counter until pliable but still cool.
2. Cut the Pastry:
Cut each sheet of puff pastry into 4 equal rectangles. You should have 8 rectangles total.
Place 4 rectangles on the prepared baking sheet. These will be the bottom layers.
3. Assemble the Pockets:
If using mustard, spread a small amount (about ½ tsp) on each bottom rectangle—don’t go too close to the edges.
Top each with 1–2 slices of ham, folding to fit neatly. Then sprinkle or layer about 2 tablespoons of cheese over the ham. A dash of black pepper or a sprinkle of dried herbs like thyme or oregano is optional but adds a lovely touch.
Place the remaining 4 pastry rectangles on top. Use a fork to crimp the edges tightly and seal in the filling. This prevents leakage and gives them that classic pocket look.
4. Egg Wash:
In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and tablespoon of water. Brush this egg wash lightly over the tops of each pastry pocket. This gives them that shiny, golden-brown finish.
Optional: Lightly score the top of each pocket with a sharp knife (just a few diagonal slashes) to let steam escape and add a decorative touch.
5. Bake:
Bake in the preheated oven for 18–22 minutes, or until the pockets are puffed and golden brown. The cheese should be melted and the edges crisp.
Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving. They’re best enjoyed warm!
🥪 Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a side salad of arugula and balsamic vinaigrette.
- Dip in honey mustard, Dijon, or a cheesy bechamel sauce.
- Pair with a cozy bowl of tomato soup for the ultimate comfort meal.
🔁 Tips & Variations:
- Cheese Choices: Use Gruyère for a French flair, cheddar for classic comfort, or even pepper jack for a spicy kick.
- Add Veggies: Try a few sautéed onions, spinach, or thin tomato slices inside for extra layers of flavor.
- Make Ahead: Assemble ahead of time, refrigerate, and bake just before serving.
- Freezer Friendly: Freeze unbaked pockets on a tray, then store in a zip-top bag. Bake straight from frozen, adding 5–8 extra minutes.
🏆 Final Thoughts:
These Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pockets are the perfect combination of elegant and easy. Flaky on the outside, cheesy on the inside, and packed with savory ham, they strike the perfect balance between indulgent and comforting. Whether you’re hosting brunch or grabbing a snack between meetings, these pockets are bound to become a favorite.
Let me know if you’d like a variation with turkey, spinach, or a sweet-savory twist like apple and brie!