These Ham and Cranberry Sliders are a tasty treat for any gathering! Imagine sweet cranberry sauce and savory ham piled together on soft rolls. Yum!
They are super easy to make—just layer everything and bake! I love serving these at parties; they disappear faster than my Netflix binge-watch sessions! 😂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Slider Buns: I recommend using Hawaiian rolls for their sweetness, but regular dinner rolls work perfectly too. If you’re gluten-free, look for gluten-free slider buns that can give you that soft texture.
Deli Ham: Any thinly sliced deli ham will work, but honey or smoked ham adds a nice flavor. If you’re avoiding pork, turkey ham is a great substitute too.
Cranberry Sauce: Store-bought whole berry sauce is convenient, but homemade cranberry sauce adds a fresh taste. If you’re short on time, you can use jellied cranberry sauce as well.
Cream Cheese: Cream cheese is creamy and delicious, but if you want a lighter option, consider using Greek yogurt. Just keep in mind, the flavor will change a bit!
Poppy Seeds: They add a nice crunch and flavor, but if you don’t have them, you can skip them or use sesame seeds instead. Your sliders will still taste great!
How Do I Assemble the Perfect Sliders?
Assembling these sliders is super simple, but there are a couple of tricks to keep in mind for the best results. Make sure you have everything ready before you start layering.
- Begin with the bottom half of your slider buns; a nice even spread of the cream cheese mixture sets the stage for flavor.
- Layer the ham slices neatly, covering every corner, then spoon cranberry sauce on top. Don’t shy away from the sauce; it balances the ham’s saltiness!
- When placing the top halves back on, be gentle. Try to keep them aligned so they bake evenly.
- Brushing the butter mixture on top before baking adds a lovely golden color and flavor. Keep an eye on them while they bake to avoid over-browning.
By following these steps, you’ll have perfectly assembled sliders that are bursting with flavor! Enjoy making them for your next gathering!
Ham And Cranberry Sliders
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Sliders:
- 12 slider buns (e.g., Hawaiian rolls or dinner rolls)
- 1 lb thinly sliced deli ham
- 1 cup cranberry sauce (whole berry or chunky style)
For The Cream Cheese Mixture:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise (optional, for cream cheese mixture)
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
For The Topping:
- 2 tbsp butter, melted
- 1 tbsp poppy seeds
- 1 tbsp finely chopped fresh rosemary or thyme (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and 15-20 minutes to bake, making a total of around 30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick appetizer or snack that your guests will love!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure your sliders bake evenly and become toasty and delicious.
2. Prepare the Buns:
Take the slider buns and slice them horizontally. If you can, keep the top and bottom halves together as one sheet to make it easier to assemble your sliders.
3. Make the Cream Cheese Mixture:
In a medium bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise (if you’re using it), Dijon mustard, and a bit of salt and pepper. Stir until everything is creamy and well combined.
4. Assemble the Sliders:
Spread a generous layer of your cream cheese mixture on the bottom halves of the slider buns. Then, layer the ham slices evenly over the cream cheese. Finally, spoon the cranberry sauce over the ham for that sweet and tangy kick.
5. Add the Tops:
Carefully place the top halves of the buns on top of the cranberry layer. Make sure they align nicely.
6. Prepare the Butter Mixture:
In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, poppy seeds, and any chopped herbs you’re using. This mixture will help give your sliders a beautiful flavor and golden color.
7. Brush the Sliders:
Using a brush or a spoon, evenly spread the melted butter mixture over the tops of the assembled sliders.
8. Bake the Sliders:
Place the assembled sliders into a baking dish, cover them tightly with foil, and pop them into the oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes until they are warmed through and the tops are slightly golden.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Once they are done, remove the sliders from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Then, cut them apart and serve them warm. These sliders are sure to be a hit!
Enjoy your delicious and easy Ham And Cranberry Sliders! Perfect for any gathering or just a tasty treat at home.
Can I Use Different Types of Bread for Sliders?
Absolutely! While Hawaiian rolls are a favorite for their sweetness, you can use any type of bread like dinner rolls, whole grain, or even gluten-free options. Just ensure they are soft enough to hold the filling without falling apart.
Can I Prepare the Sliders Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can assemble the sliders ahead of time! Just cover them with foil and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready, simply pop them in the oven to heat through.
What Can I Use Instead of Cream Cheese?
If you want a lighter option, Greek yogurt or ricotta cheese can be used instead of cream cheese. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture will change slightly, but they will still be delicious!
How Should Leftovers Be Stored?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the oven or microwave to keep the buns from getting soggy. Enjoy your sliders again!