Cooking Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a small bowl, mix together Dijon mustard, honey, and lemon juice to create a honey mustard sauce. Set aside.

On a lightly floured surface, roll out the thawed puff pastry and cut each sheet into quarters or smaller squares, depending on your desired size for individual pastries.

Spread a thin layer of the honey mustard mixture on one half of each pastry square. On top of the mustard, layer the shredded cheese, sliced ham, and any additional fillings like spinach and caramelized onions.

Wet the exposed edges of the pastry with a little water to help seal it. Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling to create a triangle or square shape. Press down gently to close, then use a fork to crimp the edges and guarantee a tight seal.

Brush the tops of each pastry with the beaten egg for a beautiful golden finish. Place the pastries on the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they're deeply golden brown and puffed.

Once baked, remove the pastries from the oven and let them cool slightly. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley before serving warm.

For the best results, make certain to handle the puff pastry as little as possible to keep it light and flaky. You can also customize the filling to suit your taste preferences by adding other ingredients like different cheeses or herbs.

These pastries can be prepared in advance and reheated in the oven, making them an excellent option for parties or busy weeknights. Enjoy your homemade puff pastry with ham and cheese!