These Cheesy Ham Puff Pastry Twists are a perfect blend of crisp, flaky pastry and gooey cheese, with savory ham and aromatic garlic infusing every bite. Whether you’re looking for a quick appetizer, a delicious snack, or even a simple meal, these twists are sure to become a favorite. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, they make for the ideal dish to serve at parties, family gatherings, or just as a tasty treat during the day.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Servings: 4-6

Ingredients:

• Puff Pastry: 400 g (14 oz)
• Ham: 150 g (5 oz), finely chopped
• Garlic Cloves: 3, minced
• Cheese: 150 g (5 oz), grated (a mix of cheddar and mozzarella works best)
• Egg: 1, beaten (for brushing)
• Parsley: 15 g (1 tbsp), chopped
• Dill: 25 g (2 tbsp), chopped
• Butter: 30 g (2 tbsp), melted
• Vegetable Oil: For greasing
• Chili Sauce: 5 g (1 tsp) (optional, for heat)
• Sour Cream: 5 tbsp (for dipping)
• Salt (optional): To taste
• Garlic Head: 1, roasted (for dipping)

Directions:

1. Prepare the Garlic Butter Mix:

Start by melting butter in a small bowl.
Add the minced garlic, parsley, and dill, and mix them well to combine. For an extra layer of flavor, stir in chili sauce (optional) for a bit of heat.

2. Prepare the Puff Pastry:

Preheat the oven to 180°C (360°F).
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry into a thin sheet. This will ensure the twists have a light, flaky texture when baked.
Brush the rolled-out pastry with half of the garlic butter mixture, allowing it to soak in and infuse the pastry with flavor.

3. Add the Filling:

Sprinkle the grated cheese and chopped ham evenly over the puff pastry. The cheese will melt beautifully, creating a rich, gooey center, while the ham adds savory depth.
Fold the pastry in half, gently pressing it down to seal the edges, creating a simple yet effective filling pocket.

4. Cut and Twist:

Using a sharp knife or a pizza cutter, slice the folded pastry into 1-inch wide strips. These strips are the foundation of the twists, so aim for even cuts to ensure uniform cooking.
Take each strip and twist it several times to form a spiral shape. This will give each twist a beautiful, golden-brown finish and a crispy texture.

5. Bake the Pastry Twists:

Place the twisted pastry strips onto a greased baking sheet, making sure they have enough space to expand while baking.
Brush the twists with the beaten egg for that perfect golden sheen.
Bake for 30 minutes, or until the pastry is crispy and golden brown. The twists should puff up beautifully during baking, becoming light and airy.

6. Prepare the Garlic Sour Cream Dip:

While the twists are baking, prepare the dip. Roast the entire garlic head until soft, then squeeze the roasted garlic out of its skin and mash it.
Mix the mashed garlic with sour cream and a pinch of salt for a smooth and creamy dip that pairs perfectly with the savory pastry twists.

7. Serve:

Once the twists are golden and crispy, remove them from the oven and brush them with the remaining garlic butter mixture to add an extra burst of flavor.
Serve the warm, cheesy ham puff pastry twists with the garlic sour cream dip on the side. They’re perfect for dipping and make a mouthwatering combination of textures and flavors.

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Serving Suggestions:

• Serve these Cheesy Ham Puff Pastry Twists as a party appetizer or finger food, paired with extra dipping sauces like marinara or honey mustard for variety.
• They make a delicious side dish for a light meal, especially when served alongside a fresh side salad or a comforting soup.
• For an extra kick, sprinkle some parmesan cheese or red pepper flakes over the twists before baking for an added depth of flavor.

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Cooking Tips:

• For extra flakiness, make sure the puff pastry is chilled before rolling it out. This helps maintain the layers of the pastry and ensures a crisp, flaky texture when baked.
• If you prefer your twists to be crispier, bake them for an additional 5 minutes until they are golden and perfectly crunchy.
• Use a mix of cheddar and mozzarella for a gooey, melt-in-your-mouth cheese experience. The cheddar adds flavor, while mozzarella ensures that cheesy stretch we all love.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Crispy, cheesy, and packed with flavor: Every twist delivers a perfect balance of cheese, ham, and savory herbs.
• Quick and easy to make: With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, these twists are an effortless snack or appetizer.
• Versatile: They’re great for parties, casual gatherings, or even as a fun lunch or dinner option.
• Customizable: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, herbs, or spices to suit your taste.

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These Cheesy Ham Puff Pastry Twists are the ultimate snack for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a quick bite, or preparing a snack for the family, these cheesy twists are sure to impress. The combination of crispy pastry, melted cheese, and savory ham, paired with a flavorful garlic dip, makes every bite a treat. Try them today, and enjoy the deliciousness! 🧀🥐