These Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pockets are the ultimate easy, crowd-pleasing appetizer or snack—golden, buttery, and stuffed with melty cheese and savory ham. Perfect for brunch, parties, or a quick handheld meal!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✅ Quick & easy – Ready in 25 minutes with just 5 ingredients!
✅ Versatile – Swap fillings for endless variations.
✅ Freezer-friendly – Make ahead and bake when needed.
✅ Kid-approved – A fun, flaky handheld snack.
Ingredients (Makes 8 pockets)
- 1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed
- 1 cup diced ham (or turkey/chicken)
- 1 cup shredded Swiss or cheddar cheese
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard (optional, for tang)
- 1 egg + 1 tbsp water (for egg wash)
- Optional add-ins:
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh herbs (parsley, chives)
- ½ tsp garlic powder
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Pastry
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roll out thawed puff pastry on a floured surface into a 10×12-inch rectangle.
- Cut into 8 equal squares (or 4 large rectangles).
2. Add Fillings
- Spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard (if using) on each square.
- Top with ham and cheese, leaving a small border.
- Optional: Sprinkle with herbs or garlic powder.
3. Fold & Seal
- Fold each square into a triangle (or rectangle) and crimp edges with a fork.
- Place on baking sheet.
4. Egg Wash & Bake
- Whisk egg + water, then brush over pastry.
- Bake 15-18 minutes until puffed and golden.
5. Serve Warm!
- Let cool slightly—cheese will be molten hot!
Serving Ideas
🍽 Brunch star – Pair with fruit salad and mimosas.
🎉 Party appetizer – Serve with honey mustard or ranch dip.
🍱 Lunchbox treat – Pack with veggies and dip.
Pro Tips
🔹 Thaw pastry properly – Leave in fridge overnight or at room temp for 40 mins.
🔹 Prevent sogginess – Pat ham dry if using juicy leftovers.
🔹 Extra flakiness – Chill filled pockets 10 mins before baking.
5 Delicious Variations
- Spinach & Feta – Swap ham for sautéed spinach + feta.
- BBQ Chicken – Use shredded chicken + BBQ sauce + cheddar.
- Apple & Brie – Thin apple slices + brie + honey drizzle.
- Pizza Pockets – Pepperoni + mozzarella + marinara.
- Breakfast Edition – Scrambled eggs + bacon + cheese.
Storage & Reheating
❄️ Freeze unbaked – Store sealed pockets on a tray until firm, then transfer to a bag. Bake frozen (+5 mins).
🔥 Reheat baked pockets – 5 mins in a 350°F (175°C) oven.
Final Thoughts
These Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pockets are irresistibly easy—whether you need a last-minute appetizer or a satisfying snack. The crispy, buttery layers with melty cheese will have everyone begging for the recipe!
