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.
I created these cherry glazed ham and cheese sliders on a whim for a family get together and they quickly became a crowd favorite. The combination of sweet cherry and savory ham is always a hit with kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
- Slider buns: 12 Hawaiian or brioche work well
- 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: 1 tablespoon (optional for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prep dish:
- Line a 9x13 inch baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Assemble buns:
- Slice the slider buns in half horizontally. Place the bottom halves in the prepared baking dish.
- Add ham and cheese:
- 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 butter:
- Brush the melted butter evenly over the tops of the buns.
- Glaze sliders:
- Generously spoon or brush the cherry glaze over the tops of the sliders.
- Bake covered:
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 15 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 8 to 10 minutes until the tops are golden and the cheese is melted.
- Finish and serve:
- Remove from the oven. Let cool for 3 to 5 minutes then garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve warm.
Save Making these sliders for my children always sparks their excitement especially when they get to help brush on the cherry glaze and sprinkle fresh parsley.
Pairing Suggestions
These sliders pair wonderfully with a simple green salad or crispy potato chips for a complete meal. For beverages try a fruity rosé or a light lager to enhance the tangy flavors.
Allergen & Nutrition Info
Contains wheat (buns) milk (cheese butter) mustard and possibly eggs. Each slider provides about 210 calories with 9 g fat 22 g carbohydrates and 10 g protein.
Required Tools
Essentials include a 9x13 inch baking dish small saucepan pastry brush knife cutting board and aluminum foil for perfect slider assembly and baking.
Save This cherry glazed mashup makes weeknight dinners and gatherings extra festive and delicious.
Recipe Q&A
- → What type of buns work best for these sliders?
Hawaiian or brioche slider buns are ideal for their soft texture and slight sweetness, complementing the cherry glaze.
- → Can I substitute the Swiss cheese?
Yes, Gruyère or provolone make great alternatives, offering a different but equally delicious flavor profile.
- → How is the cherry glaze prepared?
The glaze combines cherry preserves with Dijon mustard, balsamic vinegar, brown sugar, and black pepper, heated until smooth.
- → Is it necessary to brush butter on the buns?
Brushing melted butter before applying the glaze helps achieve a golden, crisp top once baked.
- → Can these sliders be served cold?
They are best enjoyed warm to fully appreciate the melted cheese and glaze flavors.