Ham and Cheese Sticks

These ham and cheese sticks come together quickly and are perfect for a snack or a party appetizer. They combine savory ham and melty cheddar cheese wrapped in buttery crescent dough, making every bite irresistibly comforting. If you need a reliable crowd-pleaser, these sticks are exactly that.

I first made these for a casual family get-together and everyone asked for seconds. They have since become a go-to for last-minute snacks around here.

Ingredients

• Crescent dough sheets: choose fresh or high-quality packaged for flakiness and ease of rolling
• Deli-sliced ham: a good balance of smoky and salty flavor enhances the overall taste
• Cheddar cheese sticks: these melt perfectly inside and add a creamy texture mild or sharp works depending on your preference
• Melted butter: adds richness and helps the topping stick
• Worcestershire sauce: brings a tangy umami boost
• Dijon mustard: a touch of sharpness that brightens flavors
• Dried minced onion or onion powder: provides subtle savory depth
• Poppy seeds: add a mild nutty crunch and visual appeal

Step-by-Step Instructions

Sauté the Oven:

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Prepare a baking sheet by lightly greasing it or lining it with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.

Slice and Prepare:

Roll out the crescent dough sheets flat on a clean surface. Cut each tube into four pieces so you end up with eight equally sized sections ready for filling.

Assemble the Sticks:

Evenly distribute slices of deli ham onto each dough piece. Then place one cheddar cheese stick on top of the ham for each section. Fold the dough ends over the filling and roll them up carefully, sealing any edges to keep the cheese enclosed as it melts.

Arrange for Baking:

Place all the rolled sticks spaced out on your prepared baking sheet so they have room to crisp instead of steaming.

Mix the Glaze:

In a small bowl, stir together the melted butter, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, dried onion, and poppy seeds to create a flavorful brushing mixture.

Apply and Bake:

Brush the butter mixture evenly over each dough stick. This not only adds taste but also helps them brown beautifully. Bake in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes or until the sticks are golden and puffed.

Serve Fresh:

Remove from the oven and serve these warm for the best melt-in-your-mouth experience.

Save

I especially love the blend of melted cheese wrapped in buttery dough accented with the Worcestershire and mustard glaze. We have shared these sticks during family game nights and they always bring a smile.

Storage Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat them in the oven or air fryer to maintain crispness rather than the microwave, which can make the dough soggy. For longer storage, freeze the sticks before baking on a parchment-lined tray then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen adding a few extra minutes.

Ingredient Substitutions

Try swapping cheddar sticks for mozzarella or pepper jack for a different cheese experience. Substitute deli ham with cooked turkey or chicken slices for a leaner option. If you cannot find crescent dough sheets, puff pastry also works well though it will be a bit flakier.

Serving Suggestions

Offer these sticks with mustard, ranch, or honey mustard for dipping. Pair with a fresh green salad or crisp veggies on the side for a balanced snack or light meal. They also work wonderfully alongside soup for a comforting combo.

Cultural Context

Ham and cheese rolled snacks have roots in American and European picnic and party foods where easy assembly and handheld portions are prized. Cousins to pigs in a blanket and kolaches, these sticks reflect the joy of simple ingredients coming together to make a comforting bite.

Pro Tips

Make sure to seal the dough ends tightly to avoid cheese leakage during baking I learned the hard way not to skip brushing the glaze it really takes these sticks from good to great Let sticks rest for a few minutes out of the oven before serving to avoid burning your mouth but don’t wait too long or they lose their melted cheese magic

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of cheese works best for these sticks?

Cheddar cheese sticks provide a perfect balance of flavor and meltability, but you can try mozzarella or pepper jack for variation.

→ Can I prepare these sticks ahead of time?

Yes, they can be assembled and refrigerated briefly before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if chilled.

→ What dough alternatives can be used?

Crescent dough offers a flaky texture, but puff pastry or biscuit dough can be tasty substitutes with slight changes in texture.

→ How can I add more flavor to the butter glaze?

Try mixing in fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary, or a pinch of smoked paprika to enhance the savory notes.

→ Are these sticks suitable for a low-calorie diet?

With moderate serving size and balanced ingredients, they fit well into low-calorie meal plans when enjoyed in moderation.