HAM AND CHEESE STICKS
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a baking sheet by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
Step 2: Prepare the Dough
Roll out your crescent dough sheets on a clean, flat surface. Using a knife or a pizza cutter, cut each sheet into 4 pieces, resulting in a total of 8 pieces.
Step 3: Assemble the Ham and Cheese Sticks
Place a slice of deli-sliced ham on each piece of dough. Next, place a cheddar cheese stick on top of the ham. Fold in the ends of the dough to cover the cheese and ham, then roll the dough tightly to seal. Repeat this process for all 8 pieces.
Tip: Ensure that the ends are well-sealed to prevent the cheese from oozing out during baking.
Step 4: Prepare the Butter Mixture
In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, dried minced onion or onion powder, and poppy seeds. Stir until all ingredients are well combined.
Step 5: Brush the Sticks
Place the prepared ham and cheese sticks on the prepared baking sheet. Using a pastry brush, generously brush the butter mixture over each stick. This will give the sticks a beautiful golden color and infuse them with extra flavor.
Step 6: Bake
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the sticks are golden brown and the dough is cooked through.
Step 7: Serve
Once baked, remove the sticks from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. These Ham and Cheese Sticks are best enjoyed hot and fresh from the oven, when the cheese is still melty and the dough is perfectly flaky.
Tips for Perfect Ham and Cheese Sticks
- Dough Handling: Keep the crescent dough sheets cold until you’re ready to use them. This makes the dough easier to handle and prevents it from becoming too sticky.
- Cheese Variety: While cheddar cheese sticks are delicious, you can experiment with other types of cheese such as mozzarella, Swiss, or pepper jack to add different flavors.
- Serving Suggestions: These sticks are delicious on their own, but you can also serve them with dipping sauces like honey mustard, marinara, or ranch for added flavor.
- Make-Ahead: If you’re preparing for a party, you can assemble the sticks ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. Just brush them with the butter mixture right before baking.
Conclusion
Ham and Cheese Sticks are a fantastic addition to any snack or appetizer menu. Their ease of preparation, combined with their delicious taste and appealing presentation, makes them a go-to recipe for busy weeknights, parties, or casual get-togethers. Whether you’re enjoying them as a snack or serving them at a gathering, these savory sticks are sure to be a hit. So next time you’re looking for a quick and tasty treat, try this simple yet satisfying recipe and enjoy the delightful combination of ham, cheese, and flaky crescent dough.