Honey Mustard Glazed Ham Roll-Ups

Honey Mustard Glazed Ham Roll-Ups have become a staple in our home, and for good reason! Every time I make them, whether it’s for a casual family gathering, a potluck with friends, or just a simple weekend snack, they disappear in minutes. There’s something undeniably satisfying about the savory ham and creamy cheese, all wrapped up in a soft roll and then elevated with that irresistible sweet and tangy honey mustard glaze. Even my picky eaters devour these, and I often find myself making a double batch because they are just that popular. The best part? They are incredibly easy to prepare, making them a go-to appetizer or light meal whenever we crave something delicious and fuss-free. If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing recipe that’s both simple to make and bursting with flavor, then look no further than these Honey Mustard Glazed Ham Roll-Ups. Trust me, they’ll be a hit in your house too!

Ingredients

• Sliced Ham: The star of the show! Choose deli ham slices, preferably a good quality variety for the best flavor. Thinly sliced ham is ideal for easy rolling. Look for smoked, black forest, or even honey ham for different flavor profiles. About 1 pound of ham is generally sufficient for a good-sized batch.
• Cheese: Cream cheese is the classic choice for ham roll-ups, providing a creamy and tangy filling that complements the ham perfectly. Softened cream cheese is essential for easy spreading. You can also experiment with flavored cream cheeses like chive and onion, or even jalapeño cream cheese for a spicy kick. About 8 ounces of cream cheese is a good starting point.
• Honey Mustard: This is what brings the magic! Use a good quality honey mustard dressing or sauce. The combination of sweet honey and tangy mustard creates a glaze that’s both flavorful and sticky, coating the ham roll-ups beautifully. You’ll need about ½ cup to ¾ cup for glazing.
• Rolls or Bread: Soft rolls or bread slices are needed to encase the ham and cheese filling. Hawaiian sweet rolls, slider buns, or even regular soft dinner rolls work wonderfully. For bread slices, you can use white bread, wheat bread, or even brioche – just make sure they are soft and pliable for rolling. You will need about 12-24 rolls or slices, depending on the batch size.
• Butter (Optional): Melted butter can be brushed on the rolls before baking (if baking) to add richness and a golden-brown crust. This is especially recommended if you are using plain dinner rolls to enhance their flavor and texture. About 2-4 tablespoons of melted butter should be enough.
• Poppy Seeds or Sesame Seeds (Optional): For a visual appeal and a slight nutty flavor, poppy seeds or sesame seeds can be sprinkled on top of the glazed roll-ups before or after baking. This adds a nice textural element as well. About 1-2 tablespoons of seeds are usually sufficient.
• Fresh Parsley or Chives (Optional, for Garnish): Freshly chopped parsley or chives can be used as a final garnish to add a pop of color and freshness. This is especially nice if you are serving these roll-ups as appetizers for a party or special occasion. A small bunch should be enough for garnishing.

Instructions

1. Prepare the Honey Mustard Glaze: In a small bowl, combine your honey mustard dressing or sauce. If you want to enhance the glaze further, you can whisk in a teaspoon of Dijon mustard for extra tang, a tablespoon of honey for more sweetness, or a dash of apple cider vinegar for brightness. Taste and adjust the flavors to your preference. The glaze should be pourable but not too thin.
2. Soften the Cream Cheese: Ensure your cream cheese is softened to room temperature. This will make it much easier to spread smoothly on the ham slices. If you’re in a hurry, you can microwave it for a very short time (10-15 seconds at a time) but be careful not to melt it completely. It should be soft and spreadable, like softened butter.
3. Assemble the Ham Roll-Ups: Lay out a slice of ham on a clean surface. Take a spoonful of softened cream cheese and spread it evenly over the ham slice, leaving a small border around the edges. You don’t want to overload it with cream cheese, as it might squish out when you roll it up. Aim for a thin, even layer.
4. Roll Up the Ham and Cheese: Starting from one end, tightly roll up the ham slice with the cream cheese filling. Roll it up firmly but gently, like you would roll a jelly roll or a sushi roll. Secure the roll-up by placing the seam side down. Repeat this process with the remaining ham slices and cream cheese until you have used up all the ingredients or have the desired number of roll-ups.
5. Prepare the Rolls (If Baking): If you are using rolls or buns, slice them in half horizontally. If you are using bread slices, you can leave them as they are or cut them into smaller squares or rectangles, depending on your preference and desired size for the roll-ups. If you plan to bake the roll-ups for a warm appetizer, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
6. Place Roll-Ups on Rolls/Bread: Arrange the ham roll-ups on the bottom halves of the rolls or on the bread slices. If you are baking them, place them in an oven-safe baking dish or on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Make sure they are arranged in a single layer to ensure even baking and glazing.
7. Glaze the Roll-Ups: Generously brush the honey mustard glaze over the top of each ham roll-up. Make sure to coat them evenly for maximum flavor. If desired, sprinkle poppy seeds or sesame seeds over the glazed roll-ups at this stage.
8. Bake (Optional, for Warm Roll-Ups): If you want to serve warm ham roll-ups, bake them in the preheated oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until the rolls are lightly golden brown and the glaze is bubbly and slightly caramelized. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning, especially if your glaze is high in sugar. Baking is not necessary if you prefer cold roll-ups or are short on time – they are delicious served chilled or at room temperature as well.
9. Cool Slightly and Serve: If baked, let the ham roll-ups cool slightly before serving. This will allow the glaze to set a bit and prevent burning your mouth. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives, if desired, for a fresh touch and visual appeal. Serve immediately while warm (if baked) or chilled/at room temperature if you prepared them as cold appetizers.

Nutrition Facts

(Please note: Nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)

• Serving Size: 2 roll-ups
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 250-350 kcal (depending on ingredients and roll size)
• Fat: 15-25g (depending on ham and cheese type)

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15-20 minutes (This includes softening cream cheese, preparing glaze, assembling roll-ups)
• Cook Time: 10-15 minutes (Optional, for baking warm roll-ups)
• Total Time: 25-35 minutes (for warm roll-ups), 15-20 minutes (for cold roll-ups)

These Honey Mustard Glazed Ham Roll-Ups are incredibly quick and easy to prepare, making them perfect for last-minute gatherings or when you need a fast and satisfying snack. The majority of the time is spent in assembly, which is a breeze. Baking adds a little extra time but elevates the dish with warmth and a caramelized glaze.

How to Serve

These versatile Honey Mustard Glazed Ham Roll-Ups can be served in a variety of ways, making them suitable for different occasions:

• As Appetizers:
  • Arrange them attractively on a platter for parties, potlucks, or holiday gatherings.
  • Serve them chilled or at room temperature for easy snacking.
  • Consider using toothpicks or small skewers to make them even easier to pick up and eat, especially for standing events.
• For Parties and Gatherings:
  • They are perfect finger food for cocktail parties, game day celebrations, or birthday parties.
  • Make a large batch ahead of time and keep them chilled until ready to serve.
  • Offer a variety of dips alongside, even though they are delicious on their own.
• As a Light Meal or Snack:
  • Serve a few roll-ups alongside a fresh salad for a light lunch or dinner.
  • They make a satisfying afternoon snack or a quick bite when you’re on the go.
  • Pair them with a cup of soup for a comforting and easy meal, especially during colder months.
• Serving Temperature:
  • Chilled: Excellent as a refreshing appetizer, especially during warmer weather. The flavors meld together beautifully when cold.
  • Room Temperature: Convenient and easy for serving at parties where keeping food warm or cold is not practical. They hold up well at room temperature for a few hours.
  • Warm (Baked): Offer a comforting and slightly more substantial appetizer or snack. The warm glaze and slightly toasted rolls add a delightful texture and aroma.
• Accompaniments and Dips:
  • Honey Mustard Dip: Serve extra honey mustard on the side for dipping, enhancing the glaze flavor.
  • Ranch Dressing: A classic pairing that complements the ham and cheese and provides a cool contrast to the sweetness of the glaze.
  • Spicy Mayo: For those who like a little heat, a spicy mayonnaise or sriracha mayo dip adds a kick.
  • Sweet Pickle Relish: The tanginess of sweet pickle relish can cut through the richness of the cream cheese and ham.
  • Fruit Platter: Serve alongside a platter of fresh fruits like grapes, melon, and berries to provide a refreshing balance.
  • Vegetable Sticks: Offer carrot sticks, celery sticks, or cucumber slices for a healthy and crunchy side.

Additional Tips

1. Quality of Ham Matters: Opt for good quality deli ham for the best flavor. Smoked ham, black forest ham, or even honey ham will all work wonderfully and bring different flavor nuances to the roll-ups. Avoid overly salty or processed ham if possible.
2. Cheese Variations for Flavor Depth: While cream cheese is classic, don’t be afraid to experiment! Try flavored cream cheeses like chive and onion, garlic and herb, or even jalapeño cream cheese for a spicy kick. You could also use a blend of cream cheese and shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack for a different texture and flavor profile.
3. Make-Ahead Magic: These roll-ups are fantastic for making ahead of time. Assemble them completely, including glazing, and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. This makes party prep a breeze! If baking, you can assemble and refrigerate them unbaked, then bake just before serving.
4. Storage Savvy: Leftover ham roll-ups should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for 2-3 days. While they are best served fresh, they still taste great the next day. If you baked them, they might lose a bit of their crispness upon refrigeration, but the flavor will remain delicious.
5. Spice it Up for a Kick: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the honey mustard glaze, or use jalapeño cream cheese as mentioned earlier. You could also finely dice a jalapeño and mix it into the cream cheese for a more direct spicy flavor.
6. No-Bake Option for Speed: For a truly no-bake appetizer, skip the baking step entirely! The honey mustard glaze is delicious even without baking, and these roll-ups are perfectly enjoyable chilled or at room temperature. This is ideal for hot days or when you are short on time.
7. Glaze Variations to Explore: While honey mustard is the star, you can tweak the glaze to your liking. Add a dash of Worcestershire sauce for savory depth, a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness, or a touch of brown sugar for a richer sweetness. Experiment with different types of mustard, like Dijon or stone-ground mustard, for a different flavor profile.
8. Presentation Perfection: For a more elegant presentation, garnish the platter with fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or dill. You can also arrange the roll-ups in a spiral pattern on a platter or use tiered serving dishes to add visual interest. Consider using colorful toothpicks or small skewers for serving to enhance the presentation and make them easier to handle.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I make these Honey Mustard Glazed Ham Roll-Ups ahead of time?

A: Absolutely! In fact, these roll-ups are perfect for making ahead. You can assemble them, glaze them, and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. This makes them incredibly convenient for parties and gatherings, allowing you to get ahead on your appetizer prep. If you plan to bake them, you can assemble and refrigerate them unbaked, then bake just before serving.

Q2: What kind of ham is best for these roll-ups?

A: Good quality deli ham is recommended for the best flavor. Smoked ham, black forest ham, or honey ham are all excellent choices. Thinly sliced ham is ideal for easy rolling. You can choose your favorite type of ham based on your personal taste preference. Avoid overly salty or very thick-cut ham, as it might be harder to roll and the flavor might be overpowering.

Q3: Can I use different types of cheese besides cream cheese?

A: Yes, you can definitely experiment with different cheeses! While cream cheese is the classic choice, you can use other soft cheeses like goat cheese, Boursin cheese, or even ricotta cheese (though ricotta might be a bit softer and require draining). For a firmer cheese option, try a mixture of cream cheese with shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, or provolone. Flavored cream cheeses, as mentioned earlier, are also a great way to add extra flavor.

Q4: Can I freeze Honey Mustard Ham Roll-Ups?

A: Freezing is not highly recommended for fully assembled and glazed ham roll-ups, especially if they are baked with rolls. The cream cheese and rolls can change texture upon thawing, and the glaze might become sticky. However, if you want to freeze them, it’s best to assemble the ham and cheese roll-ups without the glaze and rolls. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in a freezer bag. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight, and then glaze and serve them cold or bake them on fresh rolls.

Q5: How should I store leftover ham roll-ups?

A: Leftover ham roll-ups should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for 2-3 days. Ensure they are properly sealed to prevent them from drying out or absorbing odors from the refrigerator. When ready to eat, you can enjoy them cold or at room temperature. If you baked them, reheating is not generally recommended as it might dry them out further.

Q6: Can I make these roll-ups without honey?

A: If you are avoiding honey, you can substitute it with other sweeteners in the glaze, although it will change the flavor profile. Maple syrup, agave nectar, or even a sugar-free honey substitute can be used. You can also create a mustard glaze with a base of Dijon mustard, mayonnaise, and a touch of sweetness from a sugar alternative or fruit puree. The key is to maintain the balance of sweet and tangy flavors that are characteristic of honey mustard.

Q7: What are some good dipping sauces that go well with ham roll-ups?

A: While Honey Mustard Glazed Ham Roll-Ups are delicious on their own, offering dipping sauces can elevate them further. Great options include: extra honey mustard dressing, ranch dressing, spicy mayonnaise (sriracha mayo or chipotle mayo), a creamy horseradish sauce, or even a sweet and sour sauce for contrast. Consider your guests’ preferences and offer a variety of options.

Q8: Are these ham roll-ups suitable for kids?

A: Yes, Honey Mustard Glazed Ham Roll-Ups are generally very kid-friendly! The combination of ham, cream cheese, and sweet honey mustard glaze is usually appealing to children. They are also easy to eat as finger food, making them a great option for kids’ parties or snacks. However, always be mindful of any potential allergies or dietary restrictions when serving to children, and ensure the ham and cheese are cut into appropriate sizes to prevent choking hazards for younger children.

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