These Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pockets are the ultimate easy, crowd-pleasing appetizer or snackâgolden, buttery, and stuffed with melty cheese and savory ham. Perfect for brunch, parties, or a quick handheld meal!
Why Youâll Love This Recipe
â
 Quick & easy â Ready in 25 minutes with just 5 ingredients!
â
 Versatile â Swap fillings for endless variations.
â
 Freezer-friendly â Make ahead and bake when needed.
â
 Kid-approved â 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)
- œ 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 10Ă12-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 slightlyâcheese will be molten hot!
Serving Ideas
đœÂ Brunch star â Pair with fruit salad and mimosas.
đ Party appetizer â Serve with honey mustard or ranch dip.
đ±Â Lunchbox treat â Pack with veggies and dip.
Pro Tips
đč Thaw pastry properly â Leave in fridge overnight or at room temp for 40 mins.
đč Prevent sogginess â Pat ham dry if using juicy leftovers.
đč Extra flakiness â Chill filled pockets 10 mins before baking.
5 Delicious Variations
- Spinach & Feta â Swap ham for sautĂ©ed spinach + feta.
- BBQ Chicken â Use shredded chicken + BBQ sauce + cheddar.
- Apple & Brie â Thin apple slices + brie + honey drizzle.
- Pizza Pockets â Pepperoni + mozzarella + marinara.
- Breakfast Edition â Scrambled eggs + bacon + cheese
Storage & Reheating
âïžÂ Freeze unbaked â Store sealed pockets on a tray until firm, then transfer to a bag. Bake frozen (+5 mins).
đ„ Reheat baked pockets â 5 mins in a 350°F (175°C) oven.
Final Thoughts
These Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pockets are irresistibly easyâwhether you need a last-minute appetizer or a satisfying snack. The crispy, buttery layers with melty cheese will have everyone begging for the recipe!