The Puff Pastry Sensation That’s Driving the World Crazy

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If you’re in search of a quick and delicious appetizer or snack with a perfect blend of creamy, cheesy, and savory notes, this Puff Pastry with Ham, Cheese, and Béchamel Sauce recipe is an excellent choice. The crispy puff pastry combined with tender ham and rich béchamel sauce creates a tasty treat perfect for gatherings, brunches, or even a cozy night in.

In this guide, we’ll walk through each step to prepare this delightful puff pastry dish from scratch. We’ll also cover how to make a smooth béchamel sauce, adding a layer of creaminess that brings all the flavors together.

Ingredients

For the Puff Pastry:

  • 1 sheet of puff pastry (store-bought or homemade)
  • 4–6 slices of ham (depending on size and thickness)
  • 4–6 slices of cheese (Swiss, cheddar, or your favorite)
  • 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

For the Béchamel Sauce:

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup milk
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • A pinch of nutmeg (optional)

Optional Add-ons:

  • Dijon mustard for extra flavor
  • Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley

Directions

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Instructions

Step 1: Make the Béchamel Sauce

  1. Melt Butter: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
  2. Add Flour: Whisk in the flour to form a smooth paste (roux), cooking for 1–2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
  3. Add Milk: Gradually pour in milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Stir for 3–5 minutes until the sauce thickens to a creamy texture.
  4. Season: Add salt, pepper, and nutmeg to taste. Once thickened, set the sauce aside to cool.
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Step 2: Assemble the Puff Pastry

  1. Roll Out Puff Pastry: On a floured surface, roll out the puff pastry sheet into a rectangle. Ensure store-bought pastry is thawed if using.
  2. Spread Béchamel Sauce: Evenly spread a thin layer of béchamel over the pastry, leaving a small border around the edges.
  3. Add Ham and Cheese: Arrange ham slices over the sauce, followed by the cheese slices, covering most of the pastry without overlapping too much.

Step 3: Roll and Slice

  1. Roll Up Pastry: Carefully roll the puff pastry from one edge into a log, like a cinnamon roll. Keep the roll tight but not too tight to avoid tearing.
  2. Cut into Pinwheels: Slice the rolled pastry into 1-inch pieces to form pinwheels, showcasing a swirl of ham and cheese.
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Step 4: Bake the Pastry

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Brush with Egg Wash: Place pinwheels on the baking sheet, leaving space between each. Lightly brush with the beaten egg for a golden finish.
  3. Bake: Bake for 15–20 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
  4. Cool: Let the pinwheels cool slightly before serving.

Step 5: Serve with Optional Dipping Sauce

For extra flavor, pair these pinwheels with a dipping sauce like honey mustard or marinara.

Tips for Perfect Puff Pastry with Ham, Cheese, and Béchamel Sauce

  • Thaw Properly: Make sure store-bought pastry is fully thawed to prevent cracking.
  • Avoid Overstuffing: Don’t overfill with ham or cheese to prevent leaks and ensure even cooking.
  • Make Ahead: Prepare and refrigerate or freeze rolls in advance, baking fresh as needed.
  • Customize Fillings: Try different cheeses or add mustard or herbs to the sauce for variety. Smoked ham or prosciutto adds a gourmet twist.

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