- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12–15 minutes
- Total Time: 22–25 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings (8 pastry pockets)
- Difficulty: Easy
Ingredients
- 1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed
- 8 slices deli ham
- 8 slices cheddar cheese or Swiss cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (optional)
- Cooking spray or parchment paper for the air fryer basket
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Puff Pastry
Remove the puff pastry from the freezer and allow it to thaw according to the package instructions. Lightly flour a clean work surface and gently unfold the pastry sheet. Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, divide the pastry into eight equal rectangles.
Step 2: Add the Filling
Place one slice of ham onto one half of each pastry rectangle. Fold or trim the ham if necessary so it fits neatly inside. Add one slice of cheese on top of the ham. If desired, spread a small amount of Dijon mustard over the ham before adding the cheese for extra flavor.
Step 3: Seal the Pockets
Fold the empty half of each pastry rectangle over the filling to create a pocket. Press the edges together firmly, then use the tines of a fork to crimp the edges all the way around. This helps seal the filling inside while creating a decorative edge.
Step 4: Apply the Egg Wash
In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water until smooth. Brush the tops of each pastry pocket with the egg wash to help them bake into a beautiful golden brown. Sprinkle with dried parsley if desired.
Step 5: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3 minutes. Lightly spray the basket with cooking spray or line it with air fryer parchment paper.
Step 6: Air Fry the Pastries
Arrange the pastry pockets in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving space between each one so the hot air can circulate properly. Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed, crisp, and golden brown.
Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook the pockets in batches.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Carefully remove the puff pastry pockets from the air fryer and allow them to cool for about 5 minutes before serving. The cheese inside will be very hot.
Serve warm on their own or with honey mustard, ranch dressing, marinara sauce, or your favorite dipping sauce.
Helpful Tips
- Keep the puff pastry cold for the flakiest texture.
- Avoid overfilling the pockets to prevent the cheese from leaking during cooking.
- Always seal the edges tightly with a fork.
- Every air fryer cooks slightly differently, so begin checking for doneness after 10 to 12 minutes.
- For extra flavor, sprinkle sesame seeds, everything bagel seasoning, or grated Parmesan over the egg wash before cooking.
Storage
Store leftover pastry pockets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 3–5 minutes until warmed through and crispy again.
Freeze unbaked pockets for up to 2 months. Cook directly from frozen, adding approximately 4 to 6 extra minutes to the cooking time.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 410
- Protein: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 2g
- Calcium: 220mg
- Iron: 2mg