My mother had a special recipe for cheesy ham twists that she brought to every potluck from 1975 to 2010. This simple yet delicious treat quickly became a favorite among friends and family. With just four ingredients, these twists were always gone before the main course even began. The recipe was hand-written on church stationery and shared with dozens of friends, making it a beloved classic for gatherings.
Why Make This Recipe
Cheesy ham twists are perfect for any occasion. They are easy to make and require minimal ingredients. Not only are they a crowd-pleaser, but they also offer a tasty combination of flavors that everyone loves. Whether you’re hosting a party or attending a gathering, these twists are sure to impress. Plus, they are fun to eat and can be served warm or at room temperature.
How to Make Cheesy Ham Twists
Ingredients:
- 1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup finely chopped cooked ham
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Let the puff pastry thaw until it is cold but easy to unfold without cracking.
- In a medium bowl, stir together the softened cream cheese, chopped ham, and shredded cheddar until evenly combined.
- Unfold the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface and gently roll it just enough to smooth the seams.
- Spread the filling evenly over half of the pastry, then fold the other half over the top and press lightly.
- Cut the pastry into 12 strips. Twist each strip several times and place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one.
- Bake for 18 to 22 minutes, or until the twists are puffed and deep golden brown.
- Let them cool for 5 minutes before serving warm.
How to Serve Cheesy Ham Twists
Cheesy ham twists can be served warm as a delightful appetizer or party snack. They pair well with various dips like mustard or ranch dressing. For a more festive touch, serve them alongside other finger foods or a cheese platter.
How to Store Cheesy Ham Twists
If you have leftovers, store the cheesy ham twists in an airtight container in the fridge. They will keep for about 2 to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through.
Tips to Make Cheesy Ham Twists
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened for easier mixing with the other ingredients.
- Do not overwork the puff pastry; roll it just enough to smooth the seams.
- Feel free to experiment with different cheeses or add herbs for extra flavor.
Variation
You can substitute the cooked ham with cooked bacon or chicken for a different twist on this classic recipe. Other cheese options, such as mozzarella or gouda, can also be used.
FAQs
1. Can I use fresh pastry instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh pastry if you prefer. Just roll it out to the same thickness as the frozen puff pastry.
2. Can I freeze the cheesy ham twists?
Yes, you can freeze the unbaked twists. Just arrange them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
3. What else can I add to the filling?
You can add chopped vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.
Cheesy Ham Twists
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Let the puff pastry thaw until it is cold but easy to unfold without cracking.
- In a medium bowl, stir together the softened cream cheese, chopped ham, and shredded cheddar until evenly combined.
- Unfold the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface and gently roll it just enough to smooth the seams.
- Spread the filling evenly over half of the pastry, then fold the other half over the top and press lightly.
- Cut the pastry into 12 strips. Twist each strip several times and place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one.
- Bake for 18 to 22 minutes, or until the twists are puffed and deep golden brown.
- Let them cool for 5 minutes before serving warm.
