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 instantly became a favorite in my home, especially because everyone loves that burst of cherry glaze on top of the melty ham and cheese. Whenever I serve them at parties, guests always ask for the recipe.
Ingredients
- Slider buns: Use 12 Hawaiian or brioche buns for a soft base.
- Deli ham: 12 slices, about 250 g (9 oz) for a savory layer.
- Swiss cheese: 12 slices for creamy meltiness.
- Unsalted butter: 2 tablespoons, melted for brushing tops.
- Cherry preserves or jam: 1/2 cup to create the tangy glaze.
- Dijon mustard: 2 tablespoons for zingy flavor.
- Balsamic vinegar: 1 tablespoon for depth.
- Brown sugar: 1 tablespoon for added sweetness.
- Ground black pepper: 1/4 teaspoon for subtle heat.
- Fresh parsley: 1 tablespoon, chopped (optional, for garnish).
Instructions
- Prepare oven and pan:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x13-inch baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Assemble sliders:
- Slice the slider buns in half horizontally and place the bottom halves in the prepared dish. Layer each bun with a slice of ham and Swiss cheese, then cover with top halves.
- Make cherry glaze:
- In a 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.
- Top and glaze:
- Brush melted butter over bun tops, then generously spoon or brush the cherry glaze over the sliders.
- Bake:
- Cover dish with aluminum foil and bake for 15 minutes. Remove foil and bake 8 to 10 minutes more, until tops are golden and cheese is melted.
- Garnish and serve:
- Let cool 3 to 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired and serve warm.
Save Sunday afternoons, my kids love helping to brush the glaze on the sliders and sprinkle the parsley before serving. It's a dish that always brings everyone together at the table.
Required Tools
A 9x13-inch baking dish, small saucepan, pastry brush, knife and cutting board, and aluminum foil will make assembly and baking simple.
Allergen Information
This recipe contains wheat (buns), milk (cheese, butter), and mustard, and may contain eggs if using brioche buns. Always double-check ingredient labels before serving.
Nutritional Information
Each slider has about 210 calories, 9 g fat, 22 g carbohydrates, and 10 g protein.
Save These cherry-glazed sliders taste best served warm and fresh out of the oven. They're guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
Recipe FAQ
- → What type of buns work best for these sliders?
Hawaiian or brioche buns are ideal for softness and slight sweetness, complementing the glaze nicely.
- → How is the cherry glaze made?
The glaze blends cherry preserves, Dijon mustard, balsamic vinegar, brown sugar, and black pepper, heated until smooth.
- → Can I substitute the cheese used?
Yes, Swiss cheese can be replaced with Gruyère or provolone to vary the flavor profile.
- → How do I ensure the cheese melts perfectly?
Baking covered for 15 minutes traps heat and moisture, then uncovering browns and melts the cheese evenly.
- → Are there suggested accompaniments?
These sliders pair well with a green salad, potato chips, or a light fruity rosé or lager.