These Ham and Cranberry Sliders are like yummy little sandwiches that put a twist on tradition. With warm ham and sweet cranberry sauce, they are perfect for any get-together!
You can whip these up in no time, and trust me, everyone will love them! I always make a few extra because they disappear fast—who can resist that combo? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Slider Rolls: Soft slider rolls or small dinner rolls work best for this recipe. If you can’t find them, hamburger buns cut into quarters can be a great substitute. Mini bagels also add a fun twist!
Deli Ham: Deli ham is super convenient, but leftover holiday ham works great too! If you’re looking for something lighter, turkey or chicken slices could fit well instead.
Cranberries: Fresh cranberries shine in this recipe, but frozen ones are just fine, too—just remember to thaw them! For a twist, you could use a fruit spread or a different tart berry like raspberry.
Cream Cheese: I love the creaminess of cream cheese, but you could use goat cheese for a tangy flavor. If you’re dairy-free, try a plant-based cream cheese alternative!
How Do You Get the Perfect Golden Buns?
Achieving that beautiful golden topping on your sliders is simple! Start by brushing melted butter over the buns before baking; this gives them a nice sheen. If you use Dijon mustard, it adds an extra flavor kick!
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) for even cooking.
- Cover the sliders with foil for the first 15 minutes to retain moisture, then remove the foil to let them brown.
Watch closely during the last few minutes to avoid over-browning. Happy baking! 😊
Delicious Ham And Cranberry Sliders
Ingredients You Will Need:
- Slider Rolls: 12 slider rolls or small dinner rolls
- Ham: 12 slices of deli ham or cooked ham slices (about 6 oz)
- Cranberries: 3/4 cup fresh or frozen cranberries (thawed if frozen)
- Sugar: 2 tablespoons sugar
- Cream Cheese: 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- Butter: 1 tablespoon butter, melted
- Dijon Mustard: 1 teaspoon (optional)
- Sea Salt: Coarse sea salt for sprinkling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 20 minutes to bake, totaling about 30 minutes overall. Perfect for a quick snack or a party appetizer!
Easy Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). You want it warm and ready to bake those sliders to perfection!
2. Sweeten the Cranberries:
If you’re using frozen cranberries, make sure to thaw and drain them first. In a small bowl, mix the cranberries with sugar and let it sit for a few minutes. This helps soften them and brings out their natural juices.
3. Cut the Slider Rolls:
Take your slider rolls and slice them in half horizontally. Make sure to keep the bottom halves intact. Place these halves on a baking pan.
4. Spread the Cream Cheese:
Take your softened cream cheese and spread it evenly over the bottom halves of the rolls. This will add a creamy layer that balances the flavors.
5. Layer the Ham:
Next, layer the ham slices evenly on top of the cream cheese. Make sure to cover it well with the ham for all the delicious flavor!
6. Add the Cranberries:
Now, spoon the sugared cranberries over the ham layer, making sure to spread them out evenly. This adds that sweet-tart punch!
7. Complete the Sliders:
Place the top halves of the rolls back on top of the cranberries to complete the sliders.
8. Brush with Butter:
In a small bowl, mix melted butter with Dijon mustard if you choose to use it. Brush this mixture generously over the top of the buns for extra flavor and shine.
9. Sprinkle Some Salt:
Sprinkle coarse sea salt lightly on top of the buns for a delightful touch of flavor.
10. Bake the Sliders:
Cover the whole pan loosely with aluminum foil and bake for 15 minutes. This helps keep the sliders moist.
11. Finish Baking:
After 15 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes or until the tops are golden brown and the sliders are warmed through.
12. Serve and Enjoy:
Once done, take them out of the oven and let cool slightly. Cut the sliders apart and serve them warm. Your tasty Ham and Cranberry Sliders are ready to share—or enjoy all to yourself! 😊
These sliders are a delicious blend of savory and sweet, perfect for gatherings or a casual snack. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Different Types of Meat?
Absolutely! While ham is traditional, you can substitute it with turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Bacon can also add a delicious twist if you want something extra crispy!
How Do I Store Leftover Sliders?
Store any leftover sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
Can I Make These Sliders Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can assemble the sliders in advance and store them in the fridge, covered tightly. Bake them just before serving to enjoy them warm and fresh!
What Are Some Serving Suggestions?
These sliders are great on their own, but you can elevate your presentation by serving them with a side of fresh salad, pickles, or even sweet potato fries. They’re perfect for parties or game days!
