Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Rolls

This ham and cheese puff pastry roll is a delightful and savory treat perfect for any occasion. The combination of flaky pastry, rich ham, and melty cheese makes it an irresistible snack or appetizer. These rolls are easy to make but deliver a gourmet flavor that impresses guests every time. With a hint of cream cheese and a touch of paprika, the filling is both creamy and flavorful. The preparation is straightforward, making it a great recipe for those new to working with pastry dough. Baking them fills the kitchen with a warm, inviting aroma. Serve them straight from the oven for the best experience, as the cheese is perfectly gooey at this stage. They are perfect for brunch, parties, or just as a special treat for yourself. You can even get creative with the fillings to suit your preferences. Enjoy these rolls as a part of your next meal or event and savor the simple yet satisfying flavors.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

500 g puff pastry dough
150 g smoked ham
100 g cheese
1 pack cream cheese of choice
1/2 bell pepper
1/2 small red onion

Preparation Time

Total Time: 60 minutes (including prep and cook time)

Step-by-Step Instruction

Thaw the Dough: Begin by thawing the puff pastry dough so it's rollable.
Prepare the Ingredients: Finely chop the smoked ham, bell pepper, and red onion. Grate the cheese.
Roll the Dough: On a floured surface, roll out each pastry sheet into a rectangular shape.
Spread the Cream Cheese: Evenly spread half of the cream cheese onto each rolled-out dough piece.
Layer the Ingredients: Sprinkle the chopped onion, ham, and bell pepper over the cream cheese layer. Finish with a generous layer of grated cheese.
Roll the Dough: Carefully roll the dough with the filling. Ensure the seam is facing downward to keep it intact during baking.
Press Gently: Press the rolled dough slightly to seal it.
Slice the Roll: Cut the rolled dough into approximately 12 pieces.
Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place each piece on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Leave space between each, as the dough will rise.
Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 180°C (356°F).
Bake the Rolls: Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes until golden brown.
Check for Doneness: Ensure the pastry is puffed and has a beautiful golden color.
Cool Slightly: Let the rolls cool slightly before serving to avoid burning your mouth.
Serve Warm: Enjoy them while they are warm and the cheese is still gooey.
Store Leftovers: If any rolls are left, store them in an airtight container.
Reheat if Necessary: Reheat in the oven for the best texture if consuming leftovers.
Experiment with Fillings: Try different cheeses or add spices for new flavors.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust seasoning to your preference.
Add Fresh Herbs: Consider adding fresh herbs such as basil or oregano for added flavor.
Enjoy the Process: Cooking is about creativity—have fun making these delicious rolls.

Tips

Substitute cream cheese with herbed cheese for more flavor.
Use other cheese varieties, like mozzarella or gouda, for different taste profiles.
Add spices like black pepper or garlic powder to spice up the filling.

Variations

Vegetarian Version: Replace ham with sautéed mushrooms or spinach.
Low-Carb Option: Use almond flour dough for a low-carb version.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Serve with a dipping sauce like marinara or ranch.
Garnish with fresh herbs for a touch of color.

Best Places

Bouchon Bakery - Offers exquisite pastries with top-quality ingredients. Location: 1 Rockefeller Plaza, New York, USA.
Paul - Known for its traditional French pastries and delightful rolls. Location: 107 Av. des Champs-Élysées, Paris, France.
Little Portugal Café - Serves delicious European-style pastries. Location: Rua Pascoal de Melo 130, Lisbon, Portugal.
Tartine Bakery - Renowned for its innovative pastries and savory snacks. Location: 600 Guerrero St, San Francisco, USA.
Pastelería Escribà - Offers a range of sweet and savory treats in a charming setting. Location: Gran Via de les Corts Catalanes, 546, Barcelona, Spain.
Maideh Café - Known for its fresh, fluffy pastries. Location: Salah Salem St., Cairo, Egypt.
Cake Boy - A chic pâtisserie serving classic and contemporary creations. Location: Kingfisher House, Juniper Dr, London, England.
Das Mehl - Offers a delightful selection of pastries, including savory options. Location: Schweinfurter Str. 11, Berlin, Germany.
Brioche by Guy Savoy - Combines traditional recipes with modern flair. Location: Rue Troyon, Paris, France.
Shakespeare and Co. - A cozy spot for enjoying baked goods alongside good reads. Location: 23 The Walk, Dubai, UAE.

Enjoy making and sharing these scrumptious ham and cheese rolls!