Ham-Cheese Cornucopias

Ham-Cheese Cornucopias Recipe: Authentic Belgian Delight

Region / culture: Belgium | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 30

Introduction

Ham-Cheese Cornucopias are a delicious and savory appetizer that is perfect for any occasion. These bite-sized treats are made with a sour cream pastry dough, sliced ham, and creamy Boursin cheese. They are easy to make and are sure to impress your guests.

History

The origin of Ham-Cheese Cornucopias is not clear, but they are believed to have been inspired by traditional cornucopia-shaped pastries. These tasty treats have become a popular appetizer at parties and gatherings, thanks to their delicious flavor and cute presentation.

Ingredients

1 recipe of sour cream pastry
1 lb (454 g) cooked ham, sliced 0.63" thick
0.5 cup of Boursin cheese
1 cup of presifted all-purpose flour
0.5 tsp of salt
0.33 cup + 1 tbsp of softened butter
0.25 cup of sour cream

How to prepare

Special equipment: 2.5-inch round cookie cutter.
Prepare the sour cream dough by combining all pastry ingredients.
Knead lightly, then roll it out to a thickness of 0.25 inch.
Cut the ham into sticks measuring 0.63" x 1.5".
Spread the Boursin Cheese lightly over the entire surface of the dough.
Cut out 30 rounds of dough using the cookie cutter.
Place a ham stick in the center of each circle.
Fold the bottom edges together and press lightly to form a cornucopia shape.
Bake on a well-greased baking sheet for 15 to 20 minutes at 350°F (177°C).

Variations

Try using different types of cheese, such as cheddar or Gouda, for a different flavor.
Add herbs and spices to the filling for extra flavor, such as garlic powder, paprika, or thyme.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to roll out the pastry dough to the correct thickness to ensure that the cornucopias hold their shape while baking.

- Be sure to grease the baking sheet well to prevent the cornucopias from sticking.

- You can customize the filling by using different types of cheese or adding herbs and spices for extra flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Ham-Cheese Cornucopias as a delicious appetizer at your next party or gathering. They pair well with a glass of white wine or a refreshing cocktail.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to fold the dough carefully to form the cornucopia shape, ensuring that the filling stays inside while baking.

- Bake the cornucopias at the correct temperature and time to ensure that they are cooked through and golden brown.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use store-bought puff pastry or pie dough instead of making your own sour cream pastry.

- Substitute cooked bacon or turkey for the ham if desired.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the sour cream pastry dough and assemble the cornucopias ahead of time. Simply store them in the refrigerator until ready to bake.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the Ham-Cheese Cornucopias on a platter and garnish with fresh herbs or edible flowers for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve Ham-Cheese Cornucopias with a side of fruit or a green salad for a well-rounded appetizer. They also pair well with a variety of wines, such as Chardonnay or Pinot Noir.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Ham-Cheese Cornucopias in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (177°C) for a few minutes until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Ham-Cheese Cornucopias contains approximately 200 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Ham-Cheese Cornucopias contains approximately 12 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Ham-Cheese Cornucopias contains approximately 10 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Ham-Cheese Cornucopias contains approximately 8 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Ham-Cheese Cornucopias are a good source of calcium, iron, and vitamin A.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (cheese, butter, sour cream) and wheat (flour), which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Ham-Cheese Cornucopias are a tasty appetizer that is relatively high in fat and calories, but also provide a good amount of protein and essential nutrients.

Summary

Ham-Cheese Cornucopias are a delicious and savory appetizer that is perfect for any occasion. These bite-sized treats are easy to make and are sure to impress your guests with their cute presentation and flavorful filling. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I recall the feeling of curiosity that overcame me when I found this recipe for Ham-Cheese Cornucopias. It was tucked away in an old, dusty cookbook that had been handed down to me from my own grandmother. As I flipped through the yellowed pages, my eyes landed on the intriguing title and I knew I had to give it a try.

I had never heard of Ham-Cheese Cornucopias before, but the combination of ingredients sounded delicious. Ham, cheese, and a flaky pastry shell - what's not to love? I decided to make it for my family's Sunday dinner, eager to see how it would turn out.

As I gathered the necessary ingredients, I couldn't help but think back to all the recipes I had learned over the years. Some had been handed down through generations, like my grandmother's famous apple pie. Others I had picked up from friends, neighbors, and even strangers I had met along the way.

One of my favorite recipes came from a kind old woman I met at a farmer's market many years ago. She had been selling homemade jams and jellies, and when I complimented her on the delicious samples she offered, she had handed me a recipe card for her famous peach cobbler. I had made it countless times since then, always smiling at the memory of our chance meeting.

But back to the Ham-Cheese Cornucopias. As I began to assemble the ingredients, I thought about all the different people and places that had contributed to my culinary knowledge. From my mother, who taught me how to make the perfect roast chicken, to the Italian chef I had met on vacation in Tuscany who showed me the secret to making authentic pasta carbonara, each experience had shaped me into the cook I was today.

As the Ham-Cheese Cornucopias baked in the oven, filling the kitchen with a mouthwatering aroma, I couldn't help but feel a sense of pride. Not only had I learned a new recipe, but I had also added another chapter to the story of my culinary journey.

When I finally pulled the golden, flaky pastries out of the oven, my family gathered around the table, eager to taste the fruits of my labor. As they took their first bites, their faces lit up with delight. The Ham-Cheese Cornucopias were a hit, a perfect blend of savory ham and gooey cheese wrapped in a buttery crust.

As we enjoyed our meal together, my mind wandered back to the old cookbook and the recipe that had sparked my curiosity. I realized that cooking wasn't just about following instructions - it was about creating memories, sharing stories, and connecting with others through the universal language of food.

And so, as I sat at the table surrounded by my loved ones, I felt grateful for all the recipes I had learned over the years, each one a piece of my personal history. The Ham-Cheese Cornucopias may have been a new addition to my repertoire, but they had already found a special place in my heart, alongside all the other dishes that had brought joy and nourishment to my family over the years.