Ham & Cheese Pastry

I had a few friends over last Saturday morning to visit and catch up.  I made this ham and cheese pastry and it was pretty darn good.  Frozen puff pastry can make you feel like a legit pastry chef!  Seriously . . . throw a little gruyere and ham between two sheets and . . . VOILA!

It looked really puffy and impressive when it came out of the oven.  Isn't it pretty?

HAM & CHEESE PASTRY

• 1 package (2 sheets) frozen puff pastry, defrosted (recommended: Pepperidge Farm)
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1/4 pound black forest ham, sliced
• 1/2 pound Swiss Gruyere cheese, sliced
•  egg, beaten with 1 tablespoon water, for egg wash

Preheat oven to 450 degrees.


Lay 1 sheet of puff pastry on a floured board and carefully roll it out to 10 by 12 inches.


Place it on a pan lined with parchment and brush the center with the mustard, leaving a 1-inch border around the edge.


Place a layer of ham and then cheese, also leaving a 1-inch border.


Brush the border with the egg wash.


Place the second sheet of puff pastry on the floured board and roll it out to 10 by 12 inches.


Place the second sheet on top of the filled pastry, lining up the edges.


Cut the edges straight with a small, sharp knife and press together lightly.


Brush the top with egg wash and cut a few slits in the top to allow steam to escape.


Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until puffed and golden brown.


Allow to cool for a few minutes, slice into squares, and serve hot or warm.


Source:  Ina Garten