Ham & Cheese Baked Sticks

This classic ham and cheese stick recipe transforms simple ingredients into a crowd-pleasing snack that's perfect for lunch boxes, game day gatherings, or a quick dinner alongside soup. The flaky crescent dough wrapped around savory ham and gooey cheese creates an irresistible combination that both kids and adults love.

I first made these for my nephew's birthday party as a last minute addition when I realized we needed more food. They disappeared faster than anything else on the table and now they're requested at every family gathering.

Ingredients

• Crescent dough sheets: provides the perfect flaky wrapper. Look for the sheet version rather than the perforated triangles for easier assembly
• Deli sliced ham: adds savory protein. Choose a quality ham with good flavor since it's a starring ingredient
• Cheddar cheese sticks: ensure perfect melty centers. Sharp cheddar offers the best flavor contrast
• Butter: creates that irresistible golden exterior. Use unsalted to control salt levels
• Worcestershire sauce: adds umami depth to the glaze. A little goes a long way
• Dijon mustard: brings tangy complexity. French brands tend to have the best flavor profile
• Dried minced onion: provides savory notes without moisture. Make sure yours is fresh for maximum flavor
• Poppy seeds: add wonderful texture and visual appeal. Store in the freezer to maintain freshness

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare Your Station:

Preheat your oven to exactly 350°F and prepare your baking sheet with either parchment paper or a light coating of cooking spray. Having everything ready before you start assembly makes the process much smoother.

Cut The Dough:

Carefully unroll each tube of crescent dough on a clean surface. Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, divide each sheet into four equal rectangles for a total of eight pieces. If the dough starts to warm and become sticky, place it in the refrigerator for a few minutes.

Layer Your Ingredients:

Place a slice of ham on each rectangle of dough, positioning it so there's a small border of dough visible around the edges. Place a cheese stick near one end of the rectangle. The positioning is crucial for a tight roll that won't leak during baking.

Roll With Precision:

Fold the short ends of the dough over the ends of the cheese stick, then roll the dough tightly from the cheese end to completely encase the filling. Press the seam firmly to seal and place seam side down on the prepared baking sheet.

Create The Flavorful Glaze:

In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, dried minced onion or powder, and poppy seeds until well combined. This glaze elevates these simple rolls into something special with layers of flavor.

Apply The Glaze:

Using a pastry brush, generously coat each roll with the prepared butter mixture, making sure to cover the entire surface. This not only adds flavor but helps the rolls achieve that beautiful golden color during baking.

Bake To Perfection:

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes, watching carefully toward the end. The rolls should be uniformly golden brown with slightly darker edges, and you may see some cheese bubbling at the seams.

Rest Before Serving:

Allow the ham and cheese sticks to rest for 2 to 3 minutes before serving. This brief cooling period allows the molten cheese to set slightly so it doesn't completely ooze out with the first bite.

Save This

The poppy seed topping is what makes these truly special in my opinion. My grandmother always added them to her version, and that tiny crunch brings back memories of standing in her kitchen waiting impatiently for them to come out of the oven, the smell of melting cheese and buttery dough filling the air.

Make Ahead Options

These ham and cheese sticks work beautifully as a make ahead option. You can assemble them completely, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. For longer storage, freeze the assembled but unbaked sticks on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. When ready to bake, add about 5 minutes to the baking time if cooking from frozen. The butter glaze can also be prepared in advance and stored separately in the refrigerator just warm it briefly in the microwave to return it to brushable consistency before using.

Easy Variations

While the classic ham and cheese combination is always a winner, this recipe serves as an excellent base for countless variations. Try turkey and Swiss for a lighter option, or pepperoni and mozzarella for pizza flavors. Vegetarian versions work well with roasted red peppers and provolone. The glaze can also be customized substitute everything bagel seasoning for the poppy seeds or add a pinch of cayenne for heat. For a sweet twist, use ham with brie and add a thin spread of fig jam before rolling. Each variation maintains the essential character while offering a new flavor experience.

Serving Suggestions

These versatile sticks shine in multiple settings. For a complete dinner, serve them alongside a simple green salad or tomato soup for dipping. They make excellent appetizers cut into bite sized pieces and secured with toothpicks. Pack them in lunch boxes they're delicious even at room temperature. For entertaining, arrange them on a platter with various dipping sauces like honey mustard, ranch dressing, or marinara. They also pair wonderfully with fruit for a balanced plate children especially love them with apple slices or grapes, creating a meal that's both fun and satisfying.

Common Queries

→ Can I use a different cheese type?

Yes, you can substitute cheddar with mozzarella, Swiss, or your preferred cheese sticks for a custom flavor.

→ What’s the best ham to use?

Deli-sliced ham works best for easy wrapping. Honey ham, smoked, or black forest varieties are all delicious options.

→ Can these be prepared ahead of time?

Assemble ahead and refrigerate for several hours. Bake just before serving for melty cheese and fresh pastry.

→ How can I make them crispier?

Bake on a wire rack set over a baking sheet for improved air circulation and a crispier bottom.

→ Are these suitable for freezing?

Yes. After baking, cool completely and freeze in an airtight container. Reheat in a hot oven until warmed through.