📝 About This Recipe
These miniature marvels are the ultimate crowd-pleaser, featuring buttery Hawaiian rolls stuffed with savory smoked ham and gooey melted Swiss cheese. A signature savory-sweet glaze made of melted butter, Dijon mustard, and poppy seeds seeps into the nooks and crannies, creating a crispy, caramelized crust that kids and adults alike will find irresistible. Perfect for tiny hands and big appetites, these sliders turn a simple sandwich into a gourmet finger-food experience.
🥗 Ingredients
The Foundation
- 1 package Sweet Hawaiian Rolls (12-count pack, kept attached in one block)
- 1 pound Honey Smoked Ham (thinly sliced)
- 12 slices Swiss Cheese (thinly sliced)
- 1/4 cup Mayonnaise (creamy style)
The Signature Glaze
- 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter (melted)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon Mustard (smooth or grainy)
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire Sauce
- 1 tablespoon Poppy Seeds
- 1 tablespoon Honey (clover or wildflower)
- 1/2 teaspoon Onion Powder
- 1/4 teaspoon Garlic Powder
👨🍳 Instructions
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1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9x13 inch baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it with non-stick spray.
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2
Without separating the individual rolls, use a long serrated bread knife to slice the entire block of Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally, creating a top slab and a bottom slab.
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3
Place the bottom half of the rolls into the prepared baking dish. Spread a thin, even layer of mayonnaise across the cut side of the bottom rolls to add moisture.
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4
Layer half of the Swiss cheese slices (6 slices) over the bottom rolls, slightly overlapping them to ensure every bite is cheesy.
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5
Fold the ham slices loosely and layer them generously over the cheese. Folding the ham creates air pockets that make the sliders fluffier rather than dense.
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6
Place the remaining 6 slices of Swiss cheese over the ham layer, then place the top slab of rolls back on to close the sandwiches.
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7
In a small microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter. Whisk in the Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, poppy seeds, honey, onion powder, and garlic powder until well combined.
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8
Slowly pour the glaze over the tops of the rolls. Use a pastry brush to ensure the glaze is evenly distributed across the tops and down into the cracks between the rolls.
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9
Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. This allows the cheese to melt and the buns to steam without burning the tops.
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10
Bake for 12-15 minutes. The foil helps the heat penetrate to the center of the sandwich block.
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11
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and slightly crisp.
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12
Remove from the oven and let the sliders rest for 3-5 minutes. This allows the glaze to set slightly so it doesn't run off when you cut them.
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13
Use a sharp knife to cut along the pre-scored lines of the rolls and serve warm while the cheese is still stretchy.
💡 Chef's Tips
For the best flavor, use high-quality deli ham sliced very thin; it creates a much better texture than thick chunks. If you have time, let the glazed (but unbaked) rolls sit in the fridge for 20 minutes to allow the butter mixture to soak into the bread. To prevent soggy bottoms, make sure your ham is patted dry with a paper towel before layering. For picky eaters who dislike poppy seeds, you can substitute them with toasted sesame seeds or leave them out entirely. If the rolls are browning too quickly after removing the foil, tent them loosely with the foil again until the cheese is fully melted.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Serve alongside crisp sweet potato fries or classic potato chips for a satisfying crunch. A side of fresh apple slices or grapes balances the salty ham perfectly. Offer a small bowl of honey mustard or ranch dressing on the side for extra dipping fun. Pair with a cold glass of lemonade or sparkling apple cider for a festive kids' lunch. Add a small side salad with a light vinaigrette to round out the meal for adults.