Ingredients
For the pastry:
2 sheets puff pastry, thawed
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
150 g cooked ham, thinly sliced or chopped
2 tbsp cream cheese, softened (optional)
1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
½ tsp Italian seasoning
¼ tsp black pepper
½ tsp garlic powder
For the egg wash:
1 large egg
1 tbsp milk
Optional topping:
2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp sesame seeds
1 tbsp melted butter
Extra chopped parsley
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the oven
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking tray with parchment paper to prevent the pastry from sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the filling
In a mixing bowl, combine mozzarella, cheddar, chopped ham, cream cheese (if using), parsley, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and black pepper. Mix until evenly combined.
Step 3: Prepare the puff pastry
Lightly flour a clean work surface and unfold the thawed puff pastry sheets. Gently roll each sheet into an even rectangle if needed.
Spread a thin layer of the cheese and ham mixture over one half of each pastry sheet, leaving a small border around the edges. Fold the other half over the filling and gently press down.
Step 4: Cut into strips
Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, cut the filled pastry into strips approximately 1–1½ inches wide.
Pick up each strip and twist it 2–3 times to create a spiral shape, keeping the filling inside as much as possible.
Step 5: Arrange on the baking tray
Place the pastry twists on the prepared baking tray, leaving about 2 inches of space between each one to allow them to puff up.
Refrigerate for 10 minutes if the pastry has become too soft. This helps the twists hold their shape while baking.
Step 6: Apply the egg wash
Whisk the egg and milk together in a small bowl. Brush the mixture lightly over the tops and sides of each pastry twist.
Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese or sesame seeds if desired.
Step 7: Bake until golden
Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed, crisp, and golden brown and the filling is hot.
If the tops brown too quickly, loosely cover them with foil for the remaining baking time.
Step 8: Garnish and serve
Remove the twists from the oven and allow them to cool for 5 minutes. Brush lightly with melted butter, if desired, and sprinkle with fresh parsley.
Serve warm while the cheese is deliciously melted and the pastry is crisp and flaky.
Cooking Tips
Keep the pastry cold: Cold puff pastry rises better and creates crisp, flaky layers.
Avoid overfilling: Too much filling can leak out while baking.
Use freshly shredded cheese: It often melts more smoothly than pre-shredded cheese.
Seal the edges: Gently press the folded pastry together to help keep the filling inside.
Make them crispy: Bake until deeply golden rather than removing them while pale.
Try different fillings: Cooked chicken, turkey, sautéed mushrooms, or spinach can be used instead of ham.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with tomato ketchup or marinara sauce.
Pair with creamy garlic dip.
Enjoy with scrambled eggs for breakfast.
Serve alongside fresh garden salad or tomato soup.
Include in lunchboxes or serve as a party appetizer.
Nutrition Information
Approximate values per serving, assuming 10 servings.
Nutrient
Amount
Calories
290 kcal
Protein
11 g
Carbohydrates
24 g
Fat
17 g
Saturated Fat
8 g
Fiber
1 g
Sugar
2 g
Sodium
570 mg
Nutrition will vary depending on the puff pastry, cheese, and ham used.
Nut Information (Allergy & Dietary Notes)
Peanuts: None in the listed ingredients.
Tree nuts: None in the listed ingredients.
Dairy: Contains mozzarella, cheddar, cream cheese, and milk.
Eggs: Contains egg in the egg wash.
Gluten: Contains wheat in puff pastry.
Soy: May be present in some commercial puff pastry or processed ham.
Pork: Contains ham; use cooked turkey or chicken slices as an alternative.
For people with food allergies, check the labels of the puff pastry, ham, and cheese, and prevent cross-contamination.
Storage Instructions
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Freeze baked and cooled pastry twists for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Reheat in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–8 minutes until crisp and hot.
Make ahead: Assemble the twists, refrigerate them covered for several hours, then apply egg wash and bake when needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use store-bought puff pastry?
Yes. Frozen store-bought puff pastry works perfectly. Thaw it according to the package instructions while keeping it chilled.
2. Can I make these without ham?
Yes. Replace the ham with cooked chicken, turkey, sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or extra cheese.
3. Why did my puff pastry twists become soggy?
This can happen if the pastry gets too warm, the filling contains excess moisture, or the twists are underbaked. Keep the pastry cold and bake until golden and crisp.
4. Can I prepare these ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble the twists and refrigerate them until ready to bake. For the best texture, bake them shortly before serving.
5. Can I make these in an air fryer?
Yes. Place the twists in a single layer in a preheated air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 10–14 minutes, checking frequently until golden and fully cooked. Cook in batches if necessary.
Conclusion
These cheesy ham and cheese puff pastry twists are buttery, flaky, and packed with a delicious savory filling. They are simple to prepare with store-bought puff pastry and make a wonderful snack for family gatherings, breakfast, lunchboxes, or parties. Serve them warm with your favorite dipping sauce for a tasty homemade treat.