These ham and cranberry sliders are the perfect mix of savory and sweet! Soft rolls, tasty ham, and zingy cranberry sauce come together for a fun and yummy treat.
They’re easy to make and disappear fast at parties! I love popping one in my mouth for a quick snack. Just warning you, you’ll want to keep coming back for more! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Hawaiian Sweet Rolls: These are perfect for sliders because of their softness and slight sweetness. If you can’t find them, any slider or dinner rolls will work, like potato rolls or soft white bread.
Deli Ham: I love using honey or maple ham for that extra sweetness, but you can choose smoked ham or turkey for a healthier version. Just ensure they’re thinly sliced so they’re easy to bite into!
Swiss Cheese: While Swiss adds a nice flavor, you can swap it for provolone or gouda if you prefer something different. They melt beautifully just the same.
Cranberry Sauce: You can use homemade or store-bought cranberry sauce. If you’re not a fan, try using apple butter or a tangy barbecue sauce for a twist!
Dijon Mustard: This gives a nice kick! If you want something milder, yellow mustard works well. You could even leave it out for a less tangy flavor.
How Do You Get the Sliders to Stay Soft and Tasty?
The secret to keeping your sliders soft and tasty is in the baking technique. Covering with foil keeps them moist, while the butter and poppy seeds add flavor. Here’s how to do it:
- Preheat your oven properly to help with even cooking.
- After layering your ingredients, brush the tops with the butter mixture generously. This keeps them rich and soft.
- Cover the sliders with foil for the first part of baking, then uncover to let the tops brown. This balance helps maintain moisture while getting a nice texture!
Letting them cool for a few minutes after baking helps them hold their shape when you pull them apart. Enjoy your sliders warm for the best experience!
How to Make Ham And Cranberry Sliders
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 Hawaiian sweet rolls (slider size)
- 12 slices deli ham (about 6 oz)
- 6 slices Swiss cheese, halved
- 1/2 cup prepared cranberry sauce (whole berry or jellied)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take you about 10 minutes to prepare and 20 minutes to bake, totaling around 30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick and delicious treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Rolls:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that heats up, take your Hawaiian rolls and slice them in half horizontally, keeping the rolls together on the bottom half. This will help prevent any mess when you layer your ingredients!
2. Adding Flavor:
Spread a generous layer of Dijon mustard across the bottom half of the sliced rolls. This adds a nice tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the ham and cranberry sauce.
3. Layering the Good Stuff:
Now it’s time for the ham! Layer the deli ham slices evenly over the mustard. Next, place the Swiss cheese halves over the ham, making sure to cover every inch. Finally, spoon the cranberry sauce evenly over the cheese. Don’t skimp on this part; it brings everything together!
4. Completing Your Sliders:
Place the top halves of the rolls over the cranberry sauce to finish the sliders. They’re starting to look delicious already!
5. Preparing for Baking:
In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, poppy seeds, dried parsley, salt, and pepper. Brush this tasty mixture generously over the tops of the sliders. This will give them a nice flavor and color as they bake.
6. Baking Time:
Cover the baking pan loosely with aluminum foil and bake in your preheated oven for 15 minutes. Afterward, remove the foil and let them bake for an additional 5-7 minutes. Keep an eye on them until the cheese is melted and the tops are golden brown!
7. Finishing Touch:
Once they’re done baking, carefully remove the sliders from the oven and let them cool slightly. This helps them hold together when you pull them apart.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, separate the sliders and serve them warm. They’re perfect for parties, game days, or just a cozy night in!
Enjoy these sweet and savory ham and cranberry sliders that balance the tang of cranberry with melty cheese and soft, buttery rolls!
Can I Substitute Other Types of Rolls for Hawaiian Rolls?
Absolutely! While Hawaiian rolls are sweet and soft, you can use any slider or dinner rolls, such as potato rolls or a soft white bread. Just keep in mind that the flavor may differ slightly!
Can I Make These Sliders in Advance?
Yes, you can assemble the sliders a few hours ahead of time! Just cover them tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. When you’re ready to enjoy, just pop them in the oven for baking!
How Should I Store Leftover Sliders?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. They can also be microwaved, but they may get a bit soft!
Can I Add Other Ingredients?
Definitely! Feel free to add some sautéed onions or bell peppers for extra flavor, or even a little spinach for some greens. Adjust ingredients based on your preference for a more personalized touch!
