Ham and Cheese Sticks 🧀🥐

Ham and Cheese Sticks : ham and cheese sticks are a delightful treat loved by many. They bring a perfect combination of savory flavors and soft textures that can satisfy any snack attack. With buttery crescent dough wrapped around delicious ham and gooey cheese, these sticks are impossible to resist. Whether you serve them up for lunch, as a quick snack, or at your next party, they are guaranteed to be a hit.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

You will love this recipe for several reasons. First, it is incredibly easy to make, allowing anyone to whip up a batch in no time. Second, the combination of ham and cheese is timeless and always pleasing. Third, these sticks are versatile; you can enjoy them as a snack, a main dish for lunch, or as an appetizer for parties. Finally, they are perfect for making ahead of time and can even be frozen for later use. Once you taste these Ham and Cheese Sticks, you will want to make them again and again!

How to Prepare Ham and Cheese Sticks

Making ham and cheese sticks is a fun and easy process. Follow along as we guide you through the simple steps to create this tasty dish.

Ingredients:

• 1 can of crescent dough
• 8 slices of ham
• 8 slices of cheese (cheddar or Swiss work well)
• 1 egg (for egg wash)
• 1 tablespoon of mustard (optional for extra flavor)
• A pinch of pepper (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that your Ham and Cheese Sticks are cooked to perfection.
2. Prepare the Crescent Dough: Open the can of crescent dough carefully. Unroll the dough onto a clean surface. You will see that it comes in triangle shapes.
3. Add the Ham and Cheese: Take a slice of ham and lay it along the longer side of the triangle. Next, place a slice of cheese on top of the ham. If you like mustard, you can spread a little on the ham before adding the cheese.
4. Roll the Sticks: Starting from the wider side, roll the dough tightly around the ham and cheese. Roll it all the way to the tip of the triangle. Place the rolled stick seam-side down on a baking sheet.
5. Prepare an Egg Wash: In a small bowl, crack the egg and whisk it. Brush this egg wash over the top of each cheese stick to give them a lovely golden color when baked.
6. Bake the Sticks: Once all the sticks are on the baking sheet, place them in the oven. Bake for about 12-15 minutes or until the dough is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
7. Cool and Serve: Keep an eye on them as they bake to avoid burning. Once they are done, take them out of the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.

How to Serve Ham and Cheese Sticks

These Ham and Cheese Sticks can be served in many ways. You can enjoy them on their own or with a dipping sauce. Some popular options for dipping include mustard, ranch dressing, or marinara sauce. They also make excellent finger food at parties and can be paired with a side salad or vegetable platter for a light lunch.

How to Store Ham and Cheese Sticks

If you have leftovers (although it is hard to resist eating them all!), you can easily store your Ham and Cheese Sticks. Allow them to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container. You can keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you prefer to keep them for a longer period, you can freeze them. Simply wrap each stick in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Tips for Preparing Ham and Cheese Sticks

Here are some helpful tips to make your preparation even smoother:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, use fresh ham and cheese. Avoid pre-packaged or heavily processed options.
• Experiment with Cheese: You can use different types of cheese according to your taste. Mozzarella, gouda, or pepper jack are also great options.
• Add Herbs and Spices: Feel free to sprinkle a bit of garlic powder, onion powder, or Italian herbs in the dough for added flavor.
• Make Mini Versions: For a fun twist, cut the crescent dough into smaller triangles for mini sticks. They are perfect for parties!

Variation

You can easily change up this recipe to suit your taste. Here are a few ideas:

• Veggie Sticks: Add some cooked spinach or bell peppers alongside ham and cheese for a veggie-filled version.
• Twist with Chicken: Swap out the ham for shredded chicken and add some BBQ sauce for a different flavor.
• Buffalo Chicken Sticks: Use buffalo sauce instead of mustard with grilled chicken and cheese for a spicy kick.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make Ham and Cheese Sticks ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the sticks in advance and refrigerate them before baking. They can also be frozen and baked right before serving.

2. What is the best cheese to use?
Cheddar and Swiss are popular options, but you can use any cheese you enjoy. Mozzarella is also a great choice for a gooey texture.

3. Can I use a different type of dough?
Absolutely! You can use puff pastry, biscuit dough, or even homemade dough if you prefer. Each type will give a different texture.

With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create delicious Ham and Cheese Sticks that everyone will enjoy. Don’t forget to add your own touch and make this recipe your own! Enjoy your cooking journey, and have fun sharing these tasty snacks!