Description
Ham and Cheese Roll-Ups Recipe
Ingredients:
1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
6 slices of ham
6 slices of Swiss or cheddar cheese
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
1 tablespoon melted butter
1 teaspoon dried parsley (optional)
½ teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out the puff pastry and cut it into 6 equal rectangles.
3. Place one slice of ham and one slice of cheese on each rectangle. Roll each one tightly into a log shape.
4. Place the roll-ups seam-side down on the baking sheet.
5. Brush the tops with beaten egg for a golden finish.
6. Mix melted butter with garlic powder and dried parsley, then brush over the tops.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the pastry is golden and puffed.
8. Serve warm and enjoy your savory ham and cheese roll-ups!
#HamAndCheeseRollUps #SavorySnacks
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect roll-ups every time. First, ensure your puff pastry is fully thawed but still cold; this makes it easier to handle without becoming sticky. On a lightly floured surface, gently roll the pastry sheet to smooth any seams. Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, cut it into six even rectangles. Place a slice of ham, then a slice of cheese on each rectangle, ensuring they lie flat and leave a small border at one end. Starting from the cheese-covered end, tightly roll the pastry into a log, pressing gently to seal the final seam. Arrange the roll-ups on your prepared baking sheet with the seam side firmly down to prevent unrolling. For the egg wash, use a pastry brush to apply a thin, even coat; this creates a professional, golden shine. Combine the melted butter, garlic powder, and parsley, then lightly brush this mixture over the egg wash for extra flavor. Bake in the preheated oven until the pastry is deeply golden and flaky.
Serving Suggestions
These versatile roll-ups are perfect for any occasion. Serve them as a hot appetizer at parties with a side of honey mustard, spicy ranch, or a simple marinara sauce for dipping. For a satisfying lunch or light dinner, pair them with a fresh garden salad or a bowl of creamy tomato soup. They also make a fantastic addition to a brunch spread alongside fruit salad and scrambled eggs. For a fun twist, try different cheese and meat combinations, like prosciutto with mozzarella or smoked turkey with gouda.
How-to Summary
In brief: Thaw pastry, roll and cut into six rectangles. Top each with ham and cheese, roll tightly, and place seam-side down on a baking sheet. Brush with egg wash and a garlic-herb butter mixture. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes until golden brown. Serve warm.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the roll-ups, place them on the baking sheet, and refrigerate for up to 4 hours before baking. You may need to add 1-2 extra minutes to the baking time.
Can I use a different type of cheese? Absolutely. Swiss and cheddar are classics, but provolone, gruyère, or even pepper jack for a kick work wonderfully. Ensure the cheese slices are not too thick to allow for even rolling.
My pastry didn’t puff up. What went wrong? The most common cause is the pastry becoming too warm during handling. Work quickly and keep ingredients cold. Also, ensure your oven is fully preheated before baking.
Can I freeze ham and cheese roll-ups? You can freeze them unbaked. After assembling, flash-freeze on the baking sheet for an hour, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding 5-10 minutes to the cooking time.
What can I use instead of an egg wash? For a dairy-free option, you can use just the melted butter mixture or even a bit of milk or cream. The egg wash provides the best color and shine, however.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using warm puff pastry: This makes it sticky and difficult to roll, and it won’t puff as well. Keep it cool until the moment you use it.
- Overfilling the roll-ups: Using too much ham or cheese can cause the pastry to tear or the roll-up to burst open while baking.
- Not sealing the seam: Always place the roll-up seam-side down and press lightly to seal. A loose seam will unravel in the oven.
- Skipping the egg wash: This simple step is crucial for achieving a beautiful, golden-brown, and flaky crust.
- Under-baking: The pastry should be a deep golden brown. Pale pastry will be soggy and undercooked underneath.
Conclusion
These Ham and Cheese Roll-Ups are a deceptively simple yet impressive treat. By following the detailed guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create a delicious, flaky snack perfect for any event. Their versatility in serving and customization makes them a reliable go-to recipe. Enjoy the process of making them and the delightful results with friends and family. #HamAndCheeseRollUps #SavorySnacks