Save 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.
These sliders quickly became a favorite in my home. My family loves the touch of cherry sweetness, and they're always requested at our gatherings.
Ingredients
- Slider buns: 12 Hawaiian or brioche buns
- 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
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional): 1 tablespoon, for garnish
Instructions
- Prep Oven and Dish:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x13-inch baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Prepare Buns:
- Slice slider buns in half horizontally. Place bottom halves in the prepared baking dish.
- Layer Ingredients:
- Layer each bun with a slice of ham and a slice of Swiss cheese. Cover with the top halves of the 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 heated through, about 3 minutes.
- Brush Toppings:
- Brush melted butter evenly over the tops of the buns. Generously spoon or brush cherry glaze over the tops of the sliders.
- Bake:
- Cover dish with aluminum foil. Bake for 15 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 8 to 10 minutes, until tops are golden and cheese is melted.
- Finish and Serve:
- Remove from oven, let cool for 3 to 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve warm.
Save One weekend, my kids helped assemble these sliders, and everyone got to choose their own cheese. It turned into a delicious, happy family dinner.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a simple green salad or potato chips for a complete meal. These sliders also pair well with a fruity rosé or a light lager.
Variations
Try substituting Swiss cheese with Gruyère or provolone. Add a thin layer of whole-grain mustard or mayonnaise to the buns for extra flavor.
Allergen Information
Buns contain wheat. Cheese and butter contain milk. Mustard in glaze and in buns may be present. Check ingredient labels for eggs if using brioche buns.
Save With their blend of sweet glaze and classic flavors, these sliders are sure to be a crowd-pleaser at your next gathering. Enjoy the melty cheese and punchy cherry sauce in every bite.
Recipe Guide
- → What type of buns work best for these sliders?
Hawaiian or brioche slider buns are ideal because of their soft texture and slight sweetness that complements the glaze and fillings.
- → Can I substitute Swiss cheese with another type?
Yes, Gruyère or provolone cheese make excellent alternatives, providing a similar meltability and flavor profile.
- → How is the cherry glaze prepared?
The glaze combines cherry preserves with Dijon mustard, balsamic vinegar, brown sugar, and black pepper, heated gently until smooth.
- → Is it possible to prepare these sliders ahead of time?
They can be assembled in advance and covered before baking, which helps save time on the day of serving.
- → What are some good side pairings for these sliders?
Green salads, potato chips, or light beverages such as fruity rosé or a crisp lager complement the sliders nicely.