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Crispy Halloween Deviled Ham Salad Cups

Crispy Halloween Deviled Ham Salad Cups - featured image

A festive, savory appetizer featuring a creamy cream cheese and cheddar filling wrapped in a crisp shell of deviled ham, garnished with black olives and paprika for a spooky Halloween look.

Ingredients

  • Deviled ham (preferably high-quality, full-fat)
  • Cream cheese (full-fat, softened to room temperature)
  • Sharp cheddar cheese (finely shredded)
  • Green onions or chives (finely minced)
  • Hot sauce or Worcestershire sauce
  • Black olives (sliced, for garnish)
  • Paprika (for dusting)
  • Celery salt or regular salt (to taste)

Instructions

  1. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, minced green onions, hot sauce, and salt. Mix until smooth and well combined.
  2. Taste the filling and adjust seasoning if needed. If the mixture is too loose, add more cheddar; if too stiff, add a teaspoon of milk or more cream cheese.
  3. Chill the filling in the refrigerator for 15 minutes to firm it up.
  4. Take the deviled ham out of the package. If it is in a block, slice it into thinner strips. If it is too thick, it may be hard to wrap.
  5. Lightly grease a mini muffin tin with cooking spray or butter.
  6. Press a strip of ham into one of the muffin cups, pressing firmly against the bottom and sides to create a cup shape. Overlap edges slightly if needed to prevent holes. Repeat for all cups.
  7. Spoon about a teaspoon of the chilled filling into each ham cup. Smooth the top with the back of a spoon.
  8. Use tweezers to place small slices of black olive on top of the filling to create eyes or spooky faces.
  9. Dust the cups lightly with paprika for color and festive appearance.
  10. Place the tray in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to help the ham set and hold its shape.
  11. Carefully remove the cups from the tin and serve immediately or keep chilled until guests arrive.

Notes

Ensure cream cheese is fully softened to avoid lumps. If the ham is too dry or sticky, dampen your hands with water before shaping. For best results, chill the cups for at least 30 minutes before serving to help them hold their shape. These can be made up to 24 hours in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Nutrition

Keywords: Halloween appetizer, deviled ham, cream cheese, party snacks, easy appetizers, savory treats, spooky food, deviled ham cups