Oh, Halloween! It’s my absolute favorite time of year! The leaves are turning, costumes are being crafted, and the perfectly crisp air just has this magical aura to it. One of my all-time favorite spooky snacks has to be Coffin Sandwiches. They’re not just delicious but they also bring a good dose of creativity to your Halloween spread. Every October, I remember making these with my friends during our annual Halloween party. The giggles, the frights, and the delight on everyone’s faces when they bite into these flaky puff pastry coffins are memories I treasure dearly.
Coffin Sandwiches are seriously a crowd-pleaser. They are essentially ham and cheese sandwiches, but with a Halloween twist – they’re encased in golden, flaky puff pastry shaped like coffins! Perfect for serving up alongside some ghoulishly good sides or as a treat on their own. Each bite is a delightful crunch followed by the wonderful saltiness of the ham and richness of the cheese. Plus, they’re so much fun to make. Let’s dive into what makes these little coffin-shaped delights unique!
What’s in Coffin Sandwiches?
Puff Pastry: The star of this show! I prefer using store-bought puff pastry since it’s so easy and saves time. Just look for the kind that’s kept in the freezer section, and make sure to let it thaw before you get started.
Ham: I like a nice, smoked ham for a deeper flavor. You can use deli-sliced ham which is convenient; it’s perfect for an instantly satisfying bite!
Cheese: A good Swiss or cheddar cheese adds a creamy, melty texture to the sandwiches. Choose your favorite, but I find a mix really takes things up a notch.
Egg Wash: This is simply a beaten egg, which helps to give your coffins that gorgeous golden sheen as they bake. It’s like a little Halloween magic happening right in your oven!
Seasoning: A pinch of salt and pepper can elevate the flavor, but feel free to get a little adventurous with your spices!
Are Coffin Sandwiches Good for You?
Now, I’m all about balance, so let’s chat about the health aspects of our Coffin Sandwiches! While these delightful morsels are a tasty treat, there are some factors to consider.
Puff Pastry: Though it’s scrumptious, puff pastry is quite rich and buttery. It’s definitely not a health staple, but enjoyed in moderation, it’s fabulous for festive occasions.
Ham: Packed with protein, ham can be a great addition to your meal. But, if you’re watching sodium intake, you might want to opt for low-sodium options or small portions.
Cheese: Cheese is full of calcium and protein, and who can resist melted cheese? Just be cautious with how much you use, especially if lactose is a concern!
So there you have it! Indulging in Coffin Sandwiches certainly isn’t going to derail your healthier habits if you enjoy them in moderation during this fun season.
Ingredients Needed
– 1 sheet of frozen puff pastry (thawed)
– 8 slices of ham (smoked preferred)
– 8 slices of Swiss or cheddar cheese
– 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: herbs or spices to sprinkle inside the coffins
Makes about 8 Coffin Sandwiches.
How to Make Coffin Sandwiches?
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Unroll the puff pastry sheet on a floured surface. Using a knife or pizza cutter, cut out coffin shapes. Make sure to have matching top and bottom pieces; you need 2 pieces per sandwich.
3. On half of each coffin shape, lay down a slice of ham and a slice of cheese. If you’re feeling festive, you can even add a sprinkle of your favorite spice or herb!
4. Place the other coffin piece on top and press the edges down gently to seal them. You can use a fork to crimp the edges for a cute design and extra sealing too.
5. Brush the tops of each coffin with the beaten egg wash. This will give them that beautiful golden color!
6. Place the coffins on your baking sheet and pop them in the oven for about 15-20 minutes or until they’re puffy and golden brown.
7. Let them cool for a few minutes before serving. They’ll be hot and oozy inside, and the anticipation will make them all the more delicious!
Serving Suggestions and Spooky Twists
Now, what’s Halloween without a little creativity? Here are some fun ideas:
– Pair your Coffin Sandwiches with a side of ghoulishly green guacamole or some eerie black olive tapenade. It not only adds flavor but a spooky vibe too!
– To make it even more festive, use a cookie cutter to make spooky shapes out of bell peppers or carrots for snacking.
– Serve these gorgeous coffins alongside “witches’ brew” – a punch made from green soda and lime sherbet for a refreshing drink!
If you’re feeling crafty, try making a little edible graveyard scene on your serving platter around the Coffin Sandwiches for a fun presentation.
I hope you’re as excited about these Coffin Sandwiches as I am! They are sure to steal the show at any Halloween gathering. I can’t wait to hear how yours turn out – maybe you’ll even share a spooky pic! Happy Halloween, my friends!
