There’s a certain buzz of excitement in the air as the holiday season approaches, and nothing captures that festive spirit quite like the delightful aroma wafting from the oven when you prepare Mini Christmas Ham & Quiche Cups. These little bites of joy are like a warm hug on a chilly winter morning, rich with the smoky flavors of ham, sharp cheddar, and tangy feta, all nestled in a perfectly flaky pastry shell.
After a long week filled with holiday hustle, it’s not just nice to have something homemade on the table; it’s essential. These quiche cups are not only incredibly easy to whip up but also easily customizable to suit all tastes. Picture them at your next cozy brunch or glimmering on a holiday appetizer spread—there’s no doubt they’ll be a crowd-pleaser. Let’s dive into this recipe that promises both festivity and comfort in every bite!
Why are Christmas Ham & Quiche Cups a Must-Try?
Festive Flavor Explosion: Each bite offers a delightful mix of smoky ham, sharp cheddar, and creamy feta.
Easy to Make: No fuss, just simple steps for a delicious outcome!
Versatile Choices: Customize with veggies, different cheeses, or even gluten-free shells to fit any dietary need.
Perfect for Gatherings: These mini quiches are ideal as appetizers or brunch treats, guaranteed to impress guests.
Make Ahead Convenience: Prep them a day early, and just pop them in the oven before serving!
Christmas Ham & Quiche Cups Ingredients
For the Filling
• 4 large eggs – The creamy base for your Christmas Ham & Quiche Cups!
• 1/3 cup milk – Adds an extra layer of creaminess that brings the filling together.
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese – Offers a sharp, rich flavor that complements the ham beautifully.
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese – Adds a tangy contrast to the richness, enhancing the flavor profile.
• 1/2 cup diced ham – The star of the show, providing that essential smoky richness.
For the Crust
• 12 pre-made mini pastry shells (or wonton wrappers) – Convenient and flaky options that hold the filling perfectly.
For Garnish
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (optional) – A sprinkle for a pop of color and a fresh note!
• Salt & pepper – Essential for seasoning to taste, elevating all flavors.
Feel free to mix and match ingredients based on your preferences, but the combination of these items creates the delightful festive treat that everyone will love!
How to Make Christmas Ham & Quiche Cups
-
Preheat the oven to 350°F. This temperature is perfect for achieving a beautifully set filling and a golden crust—just what you need for these festive bites.
-
Whisk together the eggs and milk in a bowl until well combined. This creamy mixture will be the base of your quiche cups, so make sure it’s silky smooth!
-
Add the shredded cheddar, crumbled feta, and diced ham into the egg mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste—the mixture should be bursting with flavors already!
-
Arrange the mini pastry shells in a muffin tin or on a baking sheet. This stabilizes them and ensures even baking, so they hold their delightful shape while cooking.
-
Pour the egg mixture into each pastry shell, filling them about two-thirds full. Be careful not to overfill to prevent any spills in the oven!
-
Garnish with parsley, if desired. Its fresh touch not only looks appealing but adds a little pop of flavor too!
-
Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes. They’re ready when the filling is set and the tops are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them so they don’t over-brown!
-
Cool slightly before serving. This helps the filling set a bit more, making them easier to enjoy without any messy bites.
Optional: Serve warm with a light salad for a delightful brunch experience!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Christmas Ham & Quiche Cups
-
Fresh Cheese Matters: Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting and a rich flavor compared to pre-packaged options, enhancing your Christmas Ham & Quiche Cups.
-
Watch the Crust: Ensure your pastry shells are completely baked to avoid sogginess—keep an eye out for a golden brown hue!
-
Fill Wisely: Don’t overfill your pastry shells; filling them two-thirds full allows for expansion without spilling over while baking.
-
Herb Variations: Consider using herbs like chives or thyme instead of parsley for a delightful twist that enhances the flavor profile.
-
Experiment: Feel free to add roasted vegetables like spinach or bell peppers to the filling. They add nutrition and a pop of color!
-
Storage Tips: Store any leftovers in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven to restore that fresh-baked crispiness!
Christmas Ham & Quiche Cups Variations
Feel free to add your personal touch to these festive quiche cups and discover new flavors!
-
Vegetarian: Swap the diced ham for sautéed mushrooms or zucchini for a deliciously earthy flavor. Celebrate the vegetables as they soak up all the creamy filling!
-
Spicy: Add some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes to the filling for a delightful kick. The heat enhances the richness of the cheese, creating a warm hug in every bite.
-
Herbed Delight: Toss in fresh rosemary or thyme to the egg mixture for an aromatic twist. It not only elevates the taste but also brings an enchanting fragrance that fills your kitchen.
-
Cheese Lover: Use a combination of cheeses like Gruyère and Parmesan for a complex flavor profile. The richness will create a luxurious mouthfeel perfect for a festive feast.
-
Gluten-Free: Opt for gluten-free pastry shells or make a crustless version using muffin tins. It’s equally delightful while catering to gluten-sensitive guests!
-
Savory Veggie Boost: Include finely chopped spinach or kale in the filling for added nutrition and color. This adds a refreshing balance to the smoky richness of the ham.
-
Breakfast Upgrade: Transform these quiche cups into a breakfast treat by adding diced cooked bacon or sausage. It’s a hearty option that will surely start the day right!
-
Creamy Spin: Replace the milk with heavy cream for an ultra-rich filling. The luscious texture will turn these mini quiches into a decadent treat!
Storage Tips for Christmas Ham & Quiche Cups
Room Temperature: Best enjoyed fresh, but if needed, keep at room temperature for up to 2 hours before serving to maintain flavor quality.
Fridge: Store leftover Christmas Ham & Quiche Cups in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and ready to enjoy!
Freezer: These delights freeze well! Wrap individual quiche cups in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Reheat frozen quiche cups directly from the freezer in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes, or until heated through. Enjoy the delightful flavors anew!
Make Ahead Options
These Christmas Ham & Quiche Cups are a busy home cook’s dream! You can prepare the filling (eggs, milk, cheeses, and ham) up to 24 hours in advance; simply whisk them together, store in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and it will stay fresh and flavorful. The pastry shells can also be filled ahead of time and kept in the fridge for easy assembly. To maintain their delightful quality, bake them just before serving for about 15 minutes at 350°F. This way, you’ll enjoy perfectly cooked quiches with minimal effort, allowing you to savor every festive moment without feeling rushed!
What to Serve with Christmas Ham & Quiche Cups?
These festive delights deserve some fantastic companions to create a full holiday feast!
-
Fresh Green Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette serves as a refreshing contrast to the rich quiche cups, balancing flavors beautifully.
-
Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned root vegetables or Brussels sprouts roasted until caramelized add warmth and earthy tones that complement the smoky ham perfectly.
-
Buttery Dinner Rolls: Soft, pillowy rolls make a lovely addition, perfect for sopping up any leftover flavors and enhancing the comforting vibe of your meal.
-
Creamy Tomato Soup: A warm bowl of creamy tomato soup pairs wonderfully with these quiches, delivering a nostalgic taste reminiscent of wholesome childhood meals.
-
Sparkling Cider: The effervescence and hint of sweetness from a sparkling cider or champagne brings a festive touch, making your gathering feel extra special.
-
Chocolate Mousse: A light, airy dessert like chocolate mousse rounds off your meal beautifully with its rich flavor and silky texture, ensuring a joyous end to your festive gathering!
These combinations will not only elevate your dining experience but will surely impress family and friends!
Christmas Ham & Quiche Cups Recipe FAQs
What type of cheese should I use for the filling?
Absolutely! I recommend using freshly shredded cheddar and crumbled feta for the best flavor and texture. Freshly shredded cheese melts more evenly and enhances the overall taste of your Christmas Ham & Quiche Cups.
How do I store leftovers?
Very easily! Simply place any leftover quiche cups in an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them back in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to regain their delightful crispness.
Can I freeze these quiche cups?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap each quiche cup in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, reheat directly from the freezer at 350°F for about 15 minutes or until warmed through. It’s a great way to have a festive treat ready at a moment’s notice!
What should I do if the pastry shells are soggy?
If you notice your quiche cups have soggy pastry shells, it’s usually because the filling made it through the crust. To prevent this, pre-bake the pastry shells for about 5 minutes at 350°F before adding the filling. This helps create a barrier and allows the crust to firm up, ensuring every bite is a delightful crunch!
Can I make these quiche cups gluten-free?
Very much so! Opt for gluten-free mini pastry shells or use wonton wrappers made from gluten-free ingredients. Alternatively, you can skip the crust altogether and bake the filling in a greased muffin tin for crustless quiche cups—still delicious and adaptable to suit dietary needs!
How can I customize the filling?
The more the merrier! You can add vegetables like sautéed spinach, bell peppers, or even mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor. Feel free to experiment with different cheese varieties like Gruyere or goat cheese to put your personal touch on these festive quiche cups!
Christmas Ham & Quiche Cups: A Festive Delight for Easy Cheering
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- Whisk together the eggs and milk in a bowl until well combined.
- Add the shredded cheddar, crumbled feta, and diced ham into the egg mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Arrange the mini pastry shells in a muffin tin or on a baking sheet.
- Pour the egg mixture into each pastry shell, filling them about two-thirds full.
- Garnish with parsley, if desired.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes.
- Cool slightly before serving.
