Holiday Ham Puffs

Holiday Ham Puffs Recipe - Creamy and Savory Treat for Your Holiday Feast

Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 15 minutes | Servings: 40 appetizers

Introduction

Holiday Ham Puffs are a delicious and easy-to-make appetizer that is perfect for any festive gathering. These puffs are made with a creamy mixture of cream cheese, deviled ham, and seasonings, all spread on thin rye bread triangles and baked until puffed and golden brown.

History

The recipe for Holiday Ham Puffs has been a popular appetizer for holiday gatherings for many years. It is a classic recipe that is loved by many for its creamy and savory flavors.

Ingredients

1 package (8 oz / 227 g) of softened cream cheese
1 egg yolk
1 tbsp of baking powder
a dash of salt
10 to 15 slices of thin bread (preferably rye)
mayonnaise
1 can (4.5 oz / 128 g) of deviled ham
paprika

How to prepare

Combine cream cheese, egg yolk, baking powder, salt, and deviled ham in a mixing bowl.
Mix the ingredients until they are well blended.
Cut each slice of bread into 4 triangles.
Spread mayonnaise on each triangle, followed by a generous amount of ham mixture.
Sprinkle with paprika.
This step can be done ahead of time and the appetizers can be frozen.
To serve, preheat the oven to 375°F (191°C) and bake the appetizers for 12 to 15 minutes, or until they are puffed and browned.

Variations

Substitute the deviled ham with cooked and crumbled bacon for a different flavor.
Use different types of bread, such as whole wheat or sourdough, for a unique twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to soften the cream cheese before mixing it with the other ingredients to ensure a smooth and creamy texture.

- You can prepare the ham mixture ahead of time and freeze the assembled puffs for easy entertaining.

- Sprinkle paprika on top of the puffs before baking for added flavor and a pop of color.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Holiday Ham Puffs as an appetizer at holiday parties, potlucks, or family gatherings. They pair well with a variety of beverages, such as wine, beer, or cocktails.

Cooking Techniques

Bake the assembled puffs in the oven until they are puffed and golden brown for the best results.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can substitute the deviled ham with cooked and crumbled sausage or ground beef for a different flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

You can assemble the puffs ahead of time and freeze them before baking. Simply bake them from frozen when ready to serve.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Holiday Ham Puffs on a decorative platter garnished with fresh herbs or cherry tomatoes for a festive touch.

Pairing Recommendations

Holiday Ham Puffs pair well with a variety of beverages, such as white wine, champagne, or sparkling water.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Holiday Ham Puffs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (177°C) until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Holiday Ham Puffs contains approximately 150 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Holiday Ham Puffs contains approximately 10 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Holiday Ham Puffs contains approximately 8 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Holiday Ham Puffs contains approximately 4 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Holiday Ham Puffs are a good source of calcium, vitamin A, and iron.

Alergens

Holiday Ham Puffs contain dairy (cream cheese) and gluten (rye bread).

Summary

Holiday Ham Puffs are a delicious appetizer that is relatively low in carbohydrates and high in fats. They are a good source of protein and provide essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Holiday Ham Puffs are a delicious and easy-to-make appetizer that is perfect for any festive gathering. With a creamy ham mixture spread on thin rye bread triangles and baked until puffed and golden brown, these puffs are sure to be a hit with your guests. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I vividly recall the moment I first laid eyes on this recipe for Holiday Ham Puffs. It was a chilly winter day, and I was at a holiday party hosted by a dear friend of mine. The scent of cinnamon and cloves filled the air, and the sound of laughter and merriment surrounded me. As I made my way through the crowd, my friend handed me a plate piled high with these delectable little puffs of ham and cheese. One bite was all it took for me to fall in love with the savory, flaky goodness of these holiday treats.

I immediately asked my friend for the recipe, eager to recreate these delicious bites of heaven in my own kitchen. She chuckled and told me that the recipe was a family secret, passed down from generation to generation. But she could see the spark of curiosity in my eyes and decided to make an exception for me.

As she recited the ingredients and instructions, I listened intently, taking mental notes and committing every detail to memory. The recipe called for diced ham, creamy Swiss cheese, buttery puff pastry, and a touch of Dijon mustard. The ingredients were simple, but the combination was pure magic.

After the party, I rushed home and immediately set to work in my kitchen. I carefully diced the ham and grated the Swiss cheese, feeling a sense of excitement and anticipation building inside me. As the puffs baked in the oven, the tantalizing aroma filled my home, and I knew I had stumbled upon something truly special.

When the timer finally dinged, I eagerly pulled the golden brown puffs from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. As I took my first bite, I was transported back to that holiday party, surrounded by friends and laughter. The flavors were even better than I remembered, and I knew that this recipe would become a staple in my own holiday traditions.

Over the years, I have made these Holiday Ham Puffs for countless gatherings and celebrations. Each time, they are met with rave reviews and requests for the recipe. I have shared it with friends and family, passing on the tradition of these delicious little bites to the next generation.

But my journey with this recipe did not end there. As I continued to make these puffs year after year, I began to experiment with different variations and additions. I tried adding a sprinkle of herbs or a dash of hot sauce to give them an extra kick. I even tried substituting different types of cheese or using leftover holiday ham for a unique twist.

Through trial and error, I perfected the recipe to suit my own taste and style. It became a reflection of my own culinary journey, a testament to my love of cooking and my passion for creating delicious, memorable dishes. I have come to cherish this recipe not only for its delicious flavors but also for the memories and traditions that it represents.

As I sit here now, reflecting on the many years I have spent perfecting this recipe, I am filled with a sense of gratitude and joy. It has brought me closer to my friends and family, creating moments of togetherness and laughter that I will treasure forever. And as I look ahead to the future, I know that these Holiday Ham Puffs will continue to be a beloved part of my holiday celebrations, a reminder of the love and care that goes into every dish I create.

So the next time you find yourself at a holiday party, surrounded by laughter and merriment, be sure to seek out the person serving the Holiday Ham Puffs. Take a bite, savor the flavors, and let yourself be transported to a place of warmth and joy. And remember, behind every delicious dish lies a story of passion, creativity, and love.