Ham and Swiss Puff Pastry Twists Recipe
Introduction
These Ham and Swiss Puff Pastry Twists are a delicious and easy appetizer or snack. Flaky puff pastry filled with savory ham and melty Swiss cheese creates a perfect combination of flavors that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 2 sheets frozen puff pastry, thawed
- 4 slices deli ham, torn into pieces
- ¾ cup freshly grated Swiss or Gruyere cheese
- 1 egg + 1 teaspoon water, lightly beaten, for egg wash
- Sesame seeds, for topping
- Parmesan, for topping (optional)
- Fresh herbs, for topping (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Step 2: Using a circular object about the size of your puff pastry sheets, cut a circle out of the middle of both pastry sheets. Try to make the circle as large as possible to minimize waste. Place both circles on the parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Step 3: Evenly scatter the torn ham and grated cheese over one of the puff pastry circles, leaving a ½ inch border around the edges. Brush the exposed border with the egg wash.
- Step 4: Carefully place the second puff pastry circle on top, aligning it perfectly with the bottom circle and enclosing the filling. Press the edges together to seal.
- Step 5: Press into the center of the pastry with a biscuit cutter or glass rim, without cutting through. Use a sharp knife to make slits about 1 inch apart from the center to the edge.
- Step 6: Gently twist each of the slits two to three times to create twists. Don’t worry if some filling falls out; the twists will still bake beautifully.
- Step 7: Brush the top with the remaining egg wash and sprinkle sesame seeds over the pastry.
- Step 8: Bake on the center rack for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the pastry is golden and shiny. Serve immediately, topped with parmesan and fresh herbs if desired.
Tips & Variations
- Use Gruyere cheese for a nuttier flavor if Swiss isn’t available.
- Try adding a pinch of black pepper or mustard inside for an extra kick.
- For a vegetarian version, swap ham with sautéed mushrooms or spinach and use your favorite cheese.
- If you don’t have a circular cutter, you can carefully trim the pastry into squares or rectangles and twist in the same way.
Storage
Store any leftover twists in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a 350-degree F oven for 5 to 10 minutes to restore crispiness. These are best enjoyed fresh but can be frozen before baking for up to a month; bake straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make these gluten-free?
Traditional puff pastry contains gluten, but you can find gluten-free puff pastry at specialty stores or make your own using gluten-free flour blends for a similar result.
Can I prepare these ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the twists and keep them refrigerated for a few hours before baking. Just cover them well with plastic wrap to prevent the pastry from drying out.
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Ham and Swiss Puff Pastry Twists Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6–8 twists 1x
Description
These Ham and Swiss Puff Pastry Twists are a delightful appetizer or snack featuring flaky puff pastry filled with savory deli ham and melted Swiss cheese. Twisted into elegant shapes, topped with sesame seeds, and baked until golden, these twists are perfect for parties or cozy gatherings.
Ingredients
Puff Pastry
- 2 sheets frozen puff pastry, thawed
Filling
- 4 slices deli ham, torn into pieces
- ¾ cup freshly grated Swiss or Gruyere cheese
Toppings
- 1 egg + 1 teaspoon water, lightly beaten, for egg wash
- sesame seeds, for topping
- parmesan, for optional topping
- fresh herbs, for optional topping
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Prepare puff pastry circles: Using a circular object about the same size as your puff pastry sheets, cut out a large circle from the middle of both puff pastry sheets, making sure the circles are the same size to minimize waste. Place both circles on the parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Add filling: On one puff pastry circle, spread the torn ham and grated Swiss or Gruyere cheese, leaving a ½ inch border around the edges. Brush this border with the egg wash to help seal the pastry once topped.
- Seal the twists: Carefully place the second puff pastry circle on top of the filling, aligning edges perfectly. Press the edges together gently to seal the filling inside.
- Create twists: Using a biscuit cutter or the rim of a glass, press into the center of the pastry circles without cutting through. Then, using a sharp knife, cut slits about 1 inch apart from the center out to the edges around the circle. Gently grasp each slit and twist it two to three times to create the twisted look. Don’t worry if some filling falls out; it will still bake nicely.
- Apply egg wash and toppings: Brush the entire top surface with the remaining egg wash. Sprinkle sesame seeds evenly on top for added texture and flavor.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet on the center oven rack and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the puff pastry turns golden brown and shiny.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and serve immediately. Optionally, sprinkle with grated parmesan and fresh herbs to enhance flavor and presentation.
Notes
- Make sure the puff pastry is thoroughly thawed before handling to prevent cracking.
- Gruyere cheese can be used instead of Swiss for a nuttier flavor.
- If filling spills out during twisting, just brush with a little egg wash to help it brown nicely.
- Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme add a nice fresh touch as garnish.
- Serve these twists warm for the best texture and flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: ham puff pastry, Swiss cheese twists, savory appetizer, puff pastry appetizer, party snacks
