Description
These Heavy Hors d’oeuvres combine flaky puff pastry with savory ham, melted Gruyere, and crisp apple slices, finished with a touch of honey and fresh thyme for a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors. Ideal as a sophisticated appetizer or party snack, they are simple to prepare and deliver a delightful combination of textures and tastes.
Ingredients
Scale
Pastry and Spread
- 1 sheet of puff pastry
- 2 tablespoons stoneground mustard
Fillings
- 12 slices of deli ham
- 3 ounces Gruyere, thinly sliced
- 1/2 Pink Lady or Honeycrisp apple, thinly sliced
Seasoning and Garnish
- 2 teaspoons olive oil
- pinch of kosher salt and ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon honey
- several sprigs fresh thyme
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure a hot environment for baking the puff pastries.
- Prepare Puff Pastry: Roll the puff pastry to smooth out any lines and trim the edges to straighten them. Cut the pastry into six equal pieces by slicing lengthwise down the center, then slicing crosswise into three sections.
- Prepare Pastry Base: Place the cut pastries on a rimmed baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Score a 1/4 inch border around each piece and prick the inside area with a fork or knife multiple times to prevent excessive puffing during baking.
- Layer Ingredients: Evenly spread the stoneground mustard inside the scored border on each pastry piece using the back of a small spoon. Layer 3 slices of Gruyere cheese first, followed by 2 slices of deli ham, and then fan out 3 to 4 thin apple slices on top of each pastry.
- Season Apples: Brush the apple slices lightly with olive oil and sprinkle each with a pinch of kosher salt and ground black pepper to enhance flavor and help with caramelization.
- Bake Pastries: Bake the assembled pastries in the oven for 20 to 24 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Finish and Garnish: Remove the hors d’oeuvres from the oven. Drizzle each with honey and top with fresh thyme sprigs to add a fragrant, sweet herbal note before serving.
Notes
- Use a rimmed baking sheet to catch any melted cheese or juices during baking.
- Choose apples that hold their shape well during baking, such as Pink Lady or Honeycrisp, for the best texture and flavor contrast.
- Stoneground mustard adds a nice texture and tang; Dijon mustard can be substituted if preferred.
- Allow the puff pastry to come to room temperature before rolling for easier handling.
- For a vegetarian option, substitute the ham with sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables.
- Serve warm to enjoy the best taste and texture.
