Looking for a crowd-pleasing recipe that combines savory and sweet flavors? Look no further than Ham and Cranberry Hawaiian Roll Sliders. These sliders are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare. With just a few ingredients, you can create a dish that will impress your family and friends at any gathering. The combination of tender ham paired with the tartness of cranberry sauce nestled in soft Hawaiian rolls is simply irresistible. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or a casual get-together, these sliders will be the star of the show. In this article, we will walk you through the benefits of this recipe, list all the necessary ingredients, provide step-by-step instructions on how to make it, and offer some valuable tips to ensure your sliders turn out perfectly every time.
Why You’ll Love This Ham and Cranberry Hawaiian Roll Sliders
- Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time and straightforward steps make this recipe stress-free, even for novice cooks
- Flavorful and Versatile: Enjoy outstanding flavor with ingredients you can easily customize by adding your favorites or adjusting spices
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for casual gatherings, holiday celebrations, or weeknight dinners
Ingredients for Ham and Cranberry Hawaiian Roll Sliders
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Hawaiian Rolls: These soft rolls are essential for creating the perfect base for your sliders; choose fresh ones for the best texture.
- Sliced Ham: Use thinly sliced ham for easy layering; honey-baked or black forest varieties add great flavor.
- Cranberry Sauce: Opt for homemade or store-bought cranberry sauce depending on your preference; it adds sweetness that balances the saltiness of the ham.
- Swiss Cheese: This cheese melts beautifully; feel free to substitute with provolone or cheddar if desired.
- Butter: Melted butter brushed on top adds richness; consider using garlic-infused butter for extra flavor.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Ham and Cranberry Hawaiian Roll Sliders
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a baking dish by lightly greasing it with nonstick cooking spray or butter.
Step 2: Prepare the Rolls
Slice the entire pack of Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally. Lay the bottom half in your prepared baking dish while keeping them connected.
Step 3: Layer Ingredients
Spread an even layer of cranberry sauce over the bottom half of the rolls. Then add a generous layer of sliced ham followed by Swiss cheese.
Step 4: Add Top Half of Rolls
Place the top half of the rolls back onto the sandwich assembly.
Step 5: Brush with Butter
Melt about four tablespoons of butter in a small saucepan. Brush it generously over the tops of the rolls.
Step 6: Bake
Cover with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for approximately 15 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional five minutes until golden brown.
Transfer to plates and drizzle with additional cranberry sauce if desired for the perfect finishing touch.
Tips and Tricks
Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:
- Even Cooking: Make sure all ingredients are cut to similar sizes for consistent cooking times
- Temperature Control: Let ingredients reach room temperature before starting for better results
- Make Ahead: Prepare these sliders up to a day in advance; just cover tightly with plastic wrap until ready to bake
How to Serve Ham and Cranberry Hawaiian Roll Sliders
This Ham and Cranberry Hawaiian Roll Sliders is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:
- Rice or Potatoes: A hearty base that soaks up the delicious sauce.
- Fresh Salad: Adds a crisp and refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for enjoying every last drop of the flavorful sauce.
Feel free to pair it with your favorite sides for a personalized meal!
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the sliders in advance by assembling them without baking. Cover them tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Storing: Leftover Ham and Cranberry Hawaiian Roll Sliders can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Ensure they are fully cooled before sealing the container to prevent moisture buildup.
- Reheating: To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the sliders on a baking sheet covered with aluminum foil and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. This method helps maintain their soft texture.
Suggestions for Ham and Cranberry Hawaiian Roll Sliders
Use Fresh Ingredients
Using fresh ingredients is crucial when making Ham and Cranberry Hawaiian Roll Sliders. The quality of the ham, cranberries, and rolls can significantly impact the overall flavor. Opt for freshly sliced ham rather than pre-packaged options. Fresh cranberries or homemade cranberry sauce will enhance the taste and provide a vibrant color. Additionally, using soft, fresh Hawaiian rolls ensures that each bite is fluffy and delicious. Avoid frozen or stale rolls, as they can affect the texture. Investing in high-quality ingredients elevates your sliders from ordinary to extraordinary.
Don’t Skimp on Seasoning
When preparing Ham and Cranberry Hawaiian Roll Sliders, seasoning plays a vital role in bringing out the flavors. Many people underestimate the importance of adding spices or herbs. A simple sprinkle of pepper or a dash of garlic powder can make a world of difference. Additionally, consider incorporating Dijon mustard or a hint of rosemary to complement the sweetness of the cranberry sauce. Remember that balancing sweet and savory is key, so don’t hesitate to experiment with different herbs and spices to find your perfect flavor profile.
Manage Your Cooking Time
Properly managing your cooking time is essential for creating perfect Ham and Cranberry Hawaiian Roll Sliders. Overcooking can lead to dry sliders, while undercooking may leave them soggy. Preheat your oven adequately before baking to ensure even cooking. Monitor your sliders closely during baking; they should be golden brown on top and warm throughout. A good rule of thumb is to bake until the cheese melts and starts bubbling for that gooey texture everyone loves. This attention to detail will elevate your recipe, making it a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.
Assemble Carefully
The assembly process is just as important as cooking when it comes to Ham and Cranberry Hawaiian Roll Sliders. Each layer should be carefully constructed for optimal flavor balance in every bite. Start with a base layer of ham followed by a generous spread of cranberry sauce, then add cheese if desired. Ensure that each slider has an equal distribution of ingredients so that no one slider feels lacking. Press down slightly to hold everything together but avoid squishing them too much as this can result in messy sliders.
FAQs
What are Ham and Cranberry Hawaiian Roll Sliders?
Ham and Cranberry Hawaiian Roll Sliders are delicious mini sandwiches made with sweet Hawaiian rolls filled with slices of ham and cranberry sauce. They are perfect for gatherings, parties, or even casual dinners due to their bite-sized nature and delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors.
Can I use leftover holiday ham for these sliders?
Absolutely! Leftover holiday ham works wonderfully in Ham and Cranberry Hawaiian Roll Sliders. It’s a great way to repurpose any extra meat while adding a flavorful twist with cranberry sauce. Simply slice the leftover ham thinly, layer it between the rolls with cranberry sauce, and bake until warm.
Can I customize the filling in my sliders?
Yes! One of the best things about Ham and Cranberry Hawaiian Roll Sliders is their versatility. You can customize the fillings according to your taste preferences by adding cheese, different meats like turkey or roast beef, or even vegetables like spinach or arugula for added freshness.
How do I store the leftover ?
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container once cooled completely after serving. You can refrigerate them for up to three days. If you want to reheat them later, pop them back into the oven until warmed through, ensuring they maintain their tasty texture.
Conclusion
In summary, crafting delightful Ham and Cranberry Hawaiian Roll Sliders involves careful attention to ingredient quality, seasoning balance, cooking time management, and assembly techniques. By using fresh ingredients like quality ham and homemade cranberry sauce, you will enhance flavor considerably. Remember not to skimp on seasoning—this allows you to achieve a well-rounded taste experience that pleases every palate at your gathering. Finally, storing any leftovers correctly ensures you can enjoy these tasty bites more than once! Whether it’s for a festive celebration or simply an indulgent snack at home, these sliders are sure to impress everyone who tries them.

Ham and Cranberry Hawaiian Roll Sliders
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 12 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Ham and Cranberry Hawaiian Roll Sliders are a delightful fusion of sweet and savory flavors that make for the perfect crowd-pleasing appetizer or meal. These sliders feature soft Hawaiian rolls stuffed with layers of tender ham, tangy cranberry sauce, and melted Swiss cheese, all brushed with a rich buttery topping. They’re incredibly easy to prepare, making them an ideal choice for holiday gatherings, game days, or casual weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
- 12 Hawaiian rolls
- 8 oz sliced ham (honey-baked or black forest)
- 1 cup cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 8 oz Swiss cheese (or provolone/cheddar)
- 4 tbsp butter (melted)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
- Slice Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally and place the bottom half in the baking dish.
- Spread cranberry sauce evenly over the bottom half, then layer with sliced ham and Swiss cheese.
- Place the top half of the rolls on top.
- Brush melted butter over the tops of the rolls.
- Cover with foil and bake for 15 minutes; uncover and bake for an additional 5 minutes until golden brown.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slider (90g)
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 35mg