Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry

### Instructions:

#### Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to **400°F (200°C)**. Puff pastry bakes best in a hot oven, allowing it to puff up beautifully and become golden brown.

#### Step 2: Prepare the Puff Pastry
Unroll the puff pastry onto a flat, lightly floured surface. If you’re using store-bought puff pastry, it typically comes pre-rolled, so you can simply unfold it. Cut the pastry into rectangles, about 3 to 4 inches wide, or smaller if you’re making appetizers.

#### Step 3: Add the Ham and Cheese
Lay a slice or two of ham on each piece of puff pastry, depending on the size. Follow with a generous amount of shredded cheese on top. For extra flavor, spread a thin layer of **Dijon mustard** on the pastry before adding the ham and cheese, but this is optional based on your taste preferences.

#### Step 4: Fold and Seal
Carefully fold the pastry over the ham and cheese, creating a pocket or a half-moon shape. If you prefer, you can leave them open like a flatbread or roll them into little pinwheels. Press the edges of the pastry down to seal the filling inside. Use a fork to gently crimp the edges for a decorative touch and to ensure the pockets stay sealed during baking.

#### Step 5: Brush with Egg Wash
In a small bowl, whisk together the **egg** with a splash of water to make an egg wash. Brush this mixture over the top of the puff pastry to give it a glossy, golden finish as it bakes.

#### Step 6: Bake the Pastries
Place the filled pastries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake them in the preheated oven for about **12-15 minutes**, or until the puff pastry is golden and crisp. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t over-brown.

#### Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!
Once the pastries are golden brown and flaky, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. These delicious ham and cheese puff pastries are perfect as a snack, appetizer, or light meal.

### Tips for Success:

– **Use High-Quality Ingredients:** Since the recipe is so simple, using high-quality ingredients like good-quality ham and cheese will make a noticeable difference in flavor.
– **Experiment with Cheese:** While cheddar and Swiss are classic choices, feel free to experiment with other types of cheese. Gruyère, mozzarella, or brie can add an extra layer of complexity to the flavor.
– **Add Veggies:** For a more well-rounded pastry, consider adding some spinach, mushrooms, or even caramelized onions for an extra burst of flavor.
– **Make It Ahead:** These pastries can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the fridge for a few hours or overnight. Simply bake them when you’re ready to serve.
– **Make Mini Versions:** For parties or gatherings, cut the puff pastry into smaller squares and create bite-sized ham and cheese pockets. This makes them perfect for dipping or serving as hors d’oeuvres.

### Why This Recipe Works:
– **Flaky Pastry, Savory Filling:** The puff pastry works as the perfect vessel for the ham and cheese, creating a delightful texture contrast between the flaky exterior and the melty interior. Each bite is satisfying and full of flavor.
– **Quick and Convenient:** The simplicity of the ingredients and the speed of the preparation make this recipe a perfect choice when you’re short on time but still want something delicious and homemade.
– **Versatile and Customizable:** Whether you need a quick lunch, a snack, or a party appetizer, these ham and cheese puff pastries can be customized to fit any occasion. You can add different seasonings, fillings, or even drizzle them with a bit of honey mustard or your favorite dipping sauce.

### Final Thoughts:
**Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry** is a recipe that never goes out of style. It’s the ultimate comfort food that’s both sophisticated and simple to make. With just a few ingredients and a little time in the oven, you can enjoy a golden, flaky treat that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re making these as a snack, appetizer, or main dish, these puff pastries are perfect for any occasion. So go ahead—give them a try and savor the delicious combination of buttery puff pastry, savory ham, and gooey melted cheese!