Save It A playful twist on the classic ham and cheese slider featuring a tangy cherry glaze that brings a sweet and savory kick to every bite. Perfect for parties game days or a family friendly dinner.
I first served this Cherry-Glazed Ham and Cheese Slider Mashup at a weekend get together and it disappeared faster than any other appetizer on the table.
Ingredients
- Slider buns: 12 Hawaiian or brioche style
- Deli ham: 12 slices about 250 g (9 oz)
- Swiss cheese: 12 slices
- Unsalted butter: 2 tablespoons melted
- Cherry preserves or jam: 1/2 cup
- Dijon mustard: 2 tablespoons
- Balsamic vinegar: 1 tablespoon
- Brown sugar: 1 tablespoon
- Ground black pepper: 1/4 teaspoon
- Fresh parsley (optional): 1 tablespoon chopped
Instructions
- Prep the oven and pan:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x13 inch baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Prepare the buns:
- Slice the slider buns in half horizontally. Place the bottom halves in the prepared dish.
- Layer fillings:
- Layer each bun with a slice of ham and Swiss cheese. Cover with the top buns.
- Make cherry glaze:
- In a small saucepan over medium heat combine cherry preserves Dijon mustard balsamic vinegar brown sugar and black pepper. Stir until smooth and warm about 3 minutes.
- Butter the buns:
- Brush melted butter over the tops of the buns.
- Glaze and bake:
- Generously spoon or brush cherry glaze over the tops. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 15 minutes. Remove the foil and bake 8 to 10 more minutes until the tops are golden and cheese is melted.
- Finish and garnish:
- Let sliders cool 3 to 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired and serve warm.
Save It These sliders are always a hit with my family especially on movie nights when everyone wants something fun and tasty.
Serving Suggestions
Pair sliders with a crisp green salad or crunchy potato chips for a complete meal. They also go well with a fruity rosé or light lager.
Variation Ideas
Try Gruyère or provolone instead of Swiss cheese for a different flavor. Add a layer of whole grain mustard or mayonnaise to the buns for extra tang.
Nutritional Highlights
Each slider is about 210 calories with 9 g fat 22 g carbohydrates and 10 g protein.
Save It A simple glaze and quick assembly make these sliders perfect for any occasion bringing sweet and savory joy to every bite.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of buns work best for these sliders?
Soft buns like Hawaiian or brioche complement the ham and cheese well, providing a tender base that absorbs the glaze flavors.
- → Can I substitute Swiss cheese with other types?
Yes, Gruyère or provolone cheeses are excellent alternatives that melt nicely and add unique flavors.
- → How is the cherry glaze prepared?
The glaze is made by heating cherry preserves with Dijon mustard, balsamic vinegar, brown sugar, and black pepper until smooth and warming through.
- → How long should the sliders be baked?
Bake them covered for 15 minutes, then uncovered for 8–10 minutes to melt the cheese and brown the tops.
- → Are there any suggested serving ideas?
Serve sliders warm with a crisp green salad or potato chips, and pair with fruity rosé or a light lager for a complete meal.