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Golden Ham and Cheese

Featured in Appetizers & Snacks.

These cheesy ham bites take simple ingredients and turn them into a tasty treat. Flaky dough wraps around quality ham and rich cheddar, all brushed with a flavorful glaze made with butter, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce. The poppy seeds and dried onion in the glaze add extra flavor and charm. Make these ahead, freeze, and serve with dipping sauces like ranch or marinara. Ready in 25 minutes, they're flexible and perfect for laid-back snacks or fancy get-togethers.
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Updated on Sun, 27 Apr 2025 18:37:52 GMT
Crispy ham and cheese bites—ideal for grab-and-go snacking. Pin it
Crispy ham and cheese bites—ideal for grab-and-go snacking. | tasteofmoms.com

Cheese and Ham Sticks have transformed from basic lunchbox snacks into a flexible, crowd-favorite starter that fits perfectly at both casual get-togethers and fancy morning meals. Through trying many different versions, I've found that the real trick comes from balancing buttery pastry, flavorful ham, and gooey cheese, making snackable treats that vanish right away.

When I first brought these to a morning party, nobody thought I'd made them myself. The key is grabbing top-notch ingredients and putting them together the right way.

Key Components and Shopping Advice

  • Crescent Rolls: Stay in fridge until you're ready
  • Ham: Pick premium deli cuts with some thickness
  • Cheese: Grab types that melt well
  • Butter: Go for unsalted to manage saltiness
  • Worcestershire: Gives that extra flavor kick
  • Seasonings: Grab fresh herbs when you can
Crispy ham and cheese sticks, a delicious appetizer or snack for any event. Pin it
Crispy ham and cheese sticks, a delicious appetizer or snack for any event. | tasteofmoms.com

Step-by-Step Making Instructions

Working With The Dough

  • Store in cold until it's time to start
  • Open slowly to keep it intact
  • Squish perforations together
  • Give it a minute to soften up
  • Use a cool countertop

Stacking Ingredients Right

  • Spread ham with edges touching
  • Drop cheese in key spots
  • Keep edges clear for closing
  • Don't stuff too much inside
  • Arrange fillings down the middle

How To Roll Properly

  • Begin from the longer side
  • Roll firmly but don't squish
  • Close all edges completely
  • Press seams down tight
  • Put sealed side underneath

Adding The Butter Mix

  • Mix butter with your spices
  • Paint all over the outside
  • Sprinkle more seasoning if wanted
  • Keep your butter mix soft
  • Brush right before they go in the oven

Cooking To Perfection

  • Use middle rack in your oven
  • Keep heat even throughout
  • Look for nice brown color
  • Check underneath for doneness
  • Let them rest a few minutes

My best party trick is making these ahead and popping them in the oven when guests arrive - the smell brings everyone running to the kitchen!

Ham and cheese sticks, perfectly baked with a melty, savory filling. Pin it
Ham and cheese sticks, perfectly baked with a melty, savory filling. | tasteofmoms.com

These Cheese and Ham Sticks have become what I always make for both everyday hangouts and special celebrations. The mix of crispy dough, tasty ham, and melted cheese creates perfect little nibbles that everyone loves. Whether you're feeding hungry kids after school or hosting a fancy brunch, these adaptable snacks turn out yummy every single time.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can these be frozen uncooked?
Definitely! Assemble them first, freeze on a tray, and then move to a freezer bag. Add slight extra bake time when cooking from frozen.
→ What dips go best with these?
Ranch dressing, marinara, or honey mustard are awesome dipping options.
→ Can I use other cheeses?
Of course! Swiss adds nuttiness while Gouda makes it smoother.
→ How do I tell when they're done?
Watch for a golden-brown color after 12-15 minutes of baking.
→ How can I make a gluten-free version?
Simply swap for gluten-free dough and you're good to go.

Ham and Cheese Sticks

Crispy bites stuffed with ham and gooey cheddar, finished with a buttery glaze. Great for snacks or hosting guests.

Prep Time
10 Minutes
Cook Time
15 Minutes
Total Time
25 Minutes
By: Ashley


Difficulty: Intermediate

Cuisine: American

Yield: 8 Servings (8 rolls)

Dietary: ~

Ingredients

→ Main Ingredients

01 8 cheese sticks, cheddar
02 1 pound of thinly sliced ham from the deli
03 2 packs of crescent dough sheets

→ Butter Topping Mix

04 1/4 cup melted butter
05 1/2 tablespoon mustard (Dijon type)
06 1 teaspoon of Worcestershire
07 1/2 tablespoon onion flakes or powder
08 1/2 tablespoon poppy seeds

Instructions

Step 01

Set the oven to 350°F (175°C). Use parchment or grease your baking pan.

Step 02

Lay out the crescent sheets and slice each into four squares. You’ll have 8 pieces.

Step 03

On each piece, lay some ham, set a cheese stick on top, then tuck the edges and roll up the dough tightly.

Step 04

Combine the melted butter with Worcestershire, mustard, dry onion, and poppy seeds in a dish.

Step 05

Place the wrapped rolls on the pan and coat them with the buttery topping using a brush.

Step 06

Bake for 12 to 15 minutes until they’re golden and crisp. Enjoy warm.

Notes

  1. Pick good-quality ham and cheese for the best flavor.
  2. Work with cold dough straight from the fridge for easier handling.
  3. These can be frozen and baked directly from frozen, just add extra baking time.
  4. Serve them with dips like honey mustard, ranch, or marinara.
  5. Try swapping for gluten-free dough or non-dairy cheese options if needed.

Tools You'll Need

  • Cookie sheet
  • Parchment or cooking spray
  • Mixing bowl
  • Brush for spreading glaze

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Contains cheese and butter (dairy)
  • Includes crescent dough (wheat)
  • Uses mustard