Ham and Cheese Puffs

The lunchbox filler that looks fancy… but is actually ridiculously easy.

You know those recipes that make you feel like you’ve done something impressive, even though it’s basically puff pastry doing all the heavy lifting? This is one of those.

These ham and cheese puffs are golden, cheesy, flaky and perfect for lunchboxes, morning tea, party platters and more.

They’re simple, kid-friendly and easy to make in a big batch. Plus, you can make them full-size or mini depending on whether you’re packing lunchboxes, snack boxes or feeding a crowd.

Recipe inspo from @vj_cooks on Instagram - such a clever little lunchbox idea.

Why We Love These

1. They’re made with simple ingredients.

2. They feel a bit more exciting than a standard sandwich.

3. They’re easy to pack in lunchboxes or snack boxes.

4. They can be made mini for little hands.

5. They’re freezer-friendly if you want to prep ahead.

And let’s be honest… ham, cheese and puff pastry is always going to be a win.

Ingredients

1. 4 sheets puff pastry, thawed
2. 150g cheese slices
3. 200g sliced ham
4. 1 egg, whisked
5. Sesame seeds, optional
6. Tomato relish, optional for an adult version

Method

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C fan-forced and line a baking tray with baking paper.

2. Place one sheet of puff pastry onto a chopping board.

3. Add a layer of cheese slices, then top with sliced ham. For a more grown-up version, you can spread a thin layer of tomato relish onto the pastry first.

4. Place a second sheet of puff pastry over the top and gently press it down so everything sits together nicely.

5. Cut the pastry into long triangles.

6. Starting from the wider end, roll each triangle up into a croissant shape.

7. Place them onto your lined baking tray, brush with whisked egg and sprinkle with sesame seeds if using.

8. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed, golden and cooked through.

9. Let them cool slightly before packing.

How To Make Mini Lunchbox Puffs

For smaller lunchbox-friendly bites, add the fillings to one side of the puff pastry, fold the pastry over itself, then slice into smaller triangles before rolling.

They’re a great size for bento boxes, snack boxes and little lunchboxes where a full-sized puffs might be too much.

Lunchbox Tip

Because these have ham and cheese, pack them with an ice brick or inside an insulated lunch bag to help keep everything fresh until lunchtime.

They’re especially good for school lunches, kindy lunches, vacation care days or even mum’s work lunch when you want something easy but still delicious.

These ham and cheese puffs are one of those easy wins that feel a little bit fun without requiring much effort.

They’re golden, cheesy, freezer-friendly and perfect for the days when sandwiches just aren’t going to cut it.

Make a batch, pack a few, freeze a few, and thank yourself later.