Savory Puff Pastry Lucky Pigs

Savory Puff Pastry Lucky Pigs with Ham and Cheese

These little lucky pigs are a wonderful snack for a New Year celebration buffet and bring joy to the table. Many children at this age love picking up food with their hands, which naturally supports their fine motor skills. With their mild filling and crispy shell, they invite guests of all ages to take a bite.

Ingredients

• 1 roll of fresh puff pastry (approx. 275 g, organic if possible)
• 100 g mild cooked ham
• 100 g mild grated cheese (such as young Gouda)
• 1 egg (organic)
• 1 tablespoon water
• Optional: A few dark sesame seeds for the eyes

Preparation

1. Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius (convection) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Roll out the puff pastry on your workspace.
2. Use a round cutter or a glass (about 7 cm in diameter) to cut circles out of the dough. Cut smaller circles for the snouts and little triangles for the ears from the leftover dough.
3. Dice the cooked ham very finely and mix it with the grated cheese in a bowl. Place a small spoonful of the filling in the center of half of the large dough circles.
4. Place a second large dough circle on top and press the edges firmly together with a fork until they are completely sealed. Whisk the egg with the water and lightly brush the filled circles.
5. Stick on the little snout circles and ear triangles, use a toothpick to poke nostrils, and press in sesame seeds for the eyes. Place the pigs on the baking sheet and bake for about 15 minutes until golden brown.
6. Remove the finished lucky pigs from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack. Always check the temperature of the filling before serving, as the inside often stays hot longer than the pastry.

Variations and Tips

• Vegetarian option: Simply swap the ham for finely grated zucchini or carrots. Squeeze the liquid out of the vegetables beforehand so the pastry stays crispy.
• Storage: The baked pigs keep for about two days in the refrigerator. They also freeze beautifully and can be reheated in the oven when needed.
• For the whole family: Adults often enjoy a bit more flavor. You can refine a portion of the filling with a touch of mustard, pepper, or fresh herbs.

Allergy and Safety Notes

• This recipe contains gluten, dairy, and egg. Always introduce new ingredients one at a time and in small amounts to easily monitor for any reactions.
• Be mindful of choking hazards with seeds or kernels. You can also simply press small indentations into the dough with a toothpick to create the eyes.
• If you have any uncertainties about your child diet or introducing new foods, it is always best to consult your pediatrician.

Nutritional Information

The mild cheese in this recipe provides valuable calcium, which plays an important role in bone development. At the same time, the puff pastry offers quick energy for exciting holiday celebrations. The lean cooked ham adds a portion of protein to support growing bodies.