Ham and Cheese Sticks are a delicious, easy-to-make snack or appetizer that combines savory ham, gooey cheese, and buttery crescent dough. These sticks are perfect for parties, game days, or even as a quick lunch option. The combination of flavors, along with the buttery mustard glaze, makes these sticks irresistible.
Ingredients
- 2 tubes crescent dough sheets: Crescent dough sheets are the perfect base for these sticks, providing a flaky and tender crust that wraps around the ham and cheese.
- 1 lb deli-sliced ham: Use your favorite deli ham; thin slices work best for rolling into the dough.
- 8 cheddar cheese sticks: These provide a gooey, melted cheese center. You can use pre-cut cheese sticks or cut your own from a block of cheddar.
- ¼ cup butter, melted: Adds richness to the glaze and helps the seasonings adhere to the dough.
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce: This adds a deep, umami flavor to the glaze.
- ½ Tbsp Dijon mustard: Provides a tangy flavor that complements the ham and cheese.
- ½ Tbsp dried minced onion or onion powder: Adds a subtle onion flavor to the glaze, enhancing the overall taste.
- ½ Tbsp poppy seeds: These add a bit of texture and a nutty flavor to the finished sticks.
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent the sticks from sticking.
2. Prepare the Crescent Dough
- Unroll the Dough:
- Carefully unroll the crescent dough sheets onto a clean work surface. If using crescent rolls instead of sheets, pinch the perforated edges together to form a solid sheet of dough.
- Cut the Dough:
- Using a pizza cutter or sharp knife, cut each sheet of dough into 8 even rectangles.
3. Assemble the Ham and Cheese Sticks
- Layer the Ham and Cheese:
- Place a slice of ham on each rectangle of dough. Top the ham with a cheddar cheese stick.
- Roll the Sticks:
- Starting at one end, roll each piece of dough around the ham and cheese, sealing the edges as you go to prevent the cheese from leaking out during baking.
- Place on Baking Sheet:
- Arrange the rolled sticks on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one.
4. Make the Glaze
- Mix the Ingredients:
- In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, dried minced onion (or onion powder), and poppy seeds. Stir well to combine.
- Brush the Sticks:
- Using a pastry brush, generously brush the glaze over the top of each ham and cheese stick. Make sure to cover them completely for maximum flavor.
5. Bake
- Bake the Sticks:
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the dough is golden brown and fully cooked. The cheese should be melted and bubbly.
6. Serve
- Cool Slightly:
- Allow the ham and cheese sticks to cool slightly on the baking sheet before serving. This helps the cheese to set a bit, making them easier to handle.
- Serve:
- Serve the sticks warm, either on their own or with a dipping sauce like honey mustard or ranch.
Tips and Variations
- Cheese Variations:
- While cheddar is a classic choice, you can experiment with other types of cheese like mozzarella, Swiss, or pepper jack for different flavors.
- Add Spices:
- For a bit of heat, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes into the glaze or inside the rolls.
- Make It a Meal:
- Serve these sticks with a side salad or some soup to turn them into a satisfying meal.
- Use Puff Pastry:
- For an even flakier texture, try using puff pastry instead of crescent dough. Just keep an eye on the baking time, as puff pastry may bake faster.
- Ham Substitutes:
- Turkey, roast beef, or even vegetarian deli slices can be used in place of ham for a different twist on this recipe.
- Storage:
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to regain their crispiness.
Ham and Cheese Sticks are a crowd-pleasing snack that’s both simple to make and incredibly tasty. The combination of savory ham, melted cheddar, and flaky crescent dough, all topped with a flavorful glaze, makes these sticks perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them at a party or enjoying them as a snack, these Ham and Cheese Sticks are sure to be a hit. Enjoy them warm out of the oven for the best experience!
