These Ham and Cheese Pastry Twists are the perfect blend of flaky, buttery layers and savory, gooey goodness. Each bite delivers a satisfying crunch, followed by the rich flavors of smoky ham and melted cheese.
Ready in just 30 minutes, they’re an effortless treat that feels indulgent yet simple to make. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or need a quick snack, these twists are sure to impress.
The golden, crispy exterior gives way to a warm, cheesy center, making them irresistible fresh from the oven. Their handheld size makes them ideal for sharing or enjoying on the go.
With only 15 minutes of prep, you’ll have a crowd-pleasing dish that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. Perfect for any occasion, these twists are a delicious way to elevate your day.
What You’ll Need for Ham and Cheese Pastry Twists
- 1 sheet (9-inch/23 cm) frozen puff pastry, thawed (about 9 oz/255 g)
- 1 large egg, beaten (for brushing)
- ¾ cup (2 ¼ oz/64 g) sharp cheddar cheese, finely grated (substitute with your favorite cheese if preferred)
- ½ cup (2 oz/57 g) cooked ham, finely chopped (leftover ham works great!)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh herbs (optional; sage, thyme, or rosemary are excellent choices)
How to Make Ham and Cheese Pastry Twists
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C, fan assist) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Set aside.
- On a floured surface, roll the puff pastry into a 10×13-inch (25 ½ x 33 cm) rectangle.
- Brush the surface of the pastry evenly with the beaten egg.
- Sprinkle the pastry with the grated cheese, chopped ham, and herbs (if using). Gently press or roll the toppings into the pastry to help them adhere.
- Working from the 13-inch (33 cm) side, cut the pastry into 18 equal strips (about ¾-inch/2 cm wide).
- Twist each strip of dough and carefully place them on the prepared baking sheets, leaving space between each twist.
- Bake for about 15 minutes, or until the twists are golden brown and puffed.
- Let cool completely on a wire rack before serving. These are best enjoyed the day they’re made. For leftovers, store in an airtight container in the fridge and re-crisp in the oven at 350°F (180°C) for about 3 minutes.
Serving Suggestions to Elevate Your Twists
These Ham and Cheese Pastry Twists are a versatile snack or appetizer. Serve them with a side of garlic aioli or spicy mustard for dipping, or pair them with a fresh green salad for a light lunch. They’re also perfect for brunch alongside scrambled eggs or a fruit platter.
Storing and Reheating Tips for Freshness
While these twists are best enjoyed the day they’re made, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To restore their crispiness, reheat in a 350°F (180°C) oven for about 3 minutes. Avoid the microwave, as it can make them soggy.
Fun Recipe Variations to Try
Switch up the flavors by using mozzarella and sun-dried tomatoes instead of cheddar and ham, or sprinkle on some everything bagel seasoning for a savory twist. For a vegetarian option, skip the ham and add sautéed spinach or caramelized onions.
Time-Saving Tips for Quick Prep
Save time by prepping your ingredients ahead of time. Grate the cheese and chop the ham the night before, and store them in the fridge. If you’re short on time, skip the rolling step and use pre-rolled puff pastry sheets. These small adjustments can make the process even faster!
Equipment Guidance for Perfect Results
A good-quality baking sheet and parchment paper are essential for even baking and easy cleanup. If you don’t have a rolling pin, use a wine bottle to roll out the pastry. And for precise cutting, a pizza cutter or sharp knife works wonders for creating uniform strips.
Ham and Cheese Pastry Twists
Ingredients
- 1 9-inch (23 cm) square sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed (about 9 oz/255 g)
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 3/4 cup (2 1/4 oz/64 g) sharp cheddar cheese, finely grated
- 1/2 cup (2 oz/57 g) cooked ham, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh herbs (like sage, thyme or rosemary, optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C), fan assist, and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Set aside.
- On a floured surface, roll the puff pastry into a 10×13-inch (25 1/2 x 33 cm) rectangle.
- Brush the surface of the pastry with the beaten egg.
- Sprinkle the puff pastry with the cheese, ham, and herbs (if using) and gently press or roll into the pastry to help the ingredients to adhere to the pastry.
- Working from the 13-inch (33 cm) side, cut the pastry into 18 equal strips (about 3/4-inch/2 cm wide).
- Twist each strip of dough and carefully place it on the prepared baking sheets.
- Bake for about 15 minutes or until golden brown and puffed.
- Let cool completely on a wire rack before serving. These are best the day they are made. If you do have leftovers, refrigerate them in an airtight container. You can re-crisp them in the oven at 350°F (180°C) for about 3 minutes.
