Better Than Sex Appetizer Sandwiches

I remember the first time I tasted these little flavor bombs. It was at a neighborhood potluck, and amidst the usual dips and casseroles, a platter of golden-brown, glistening rolls caught my eye. One bite, and I was hooked! The salty ham, melty Swiss, and that sweet-savory glaze – it was an explosion of deliciousness that completely defied its humble appearance. I devoured half the platter myself, feeling slightly guilty but completely satisfied. Now, these “Better Than Sex” appetizer sandwiches have become a staple at my own gatherings, and they always disappear in minutes.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 12
• Yields: 24 sandwiches
• Dietary Type: Not Gluten-Free

Ingredients

• 1 lb thinly sliced deli ham
• 1/2 lb Swiss cheese, sliced
• 2 packages Hawaiian sweet dinner rolls
• 1/2 cup butter
• 4 tablespoons brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons poppy seeds

Equipment Needed

• Large serrated knife
• Sheet pan

Instructions

1. Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). This ensures the sandwiches bake evenly and the cheese melts perfectly.

2. The next step is a clever time-saver. Instead of separating each roll individually, use a large serrated knife to slice both packages of Hawaiian sweet rolls horizontally, creating a top and bottom layer for each set of rolls. This speeds up the assembly process significantly.

3. Place the bottom halves of both packages of rolls onto a sheet pan. Spreading them out evenly allows for uniform baking.

4. Now comes the delicious layering! Cover the roll bottoms generously with the thinly sliced deli ham. Make sure to distribute the ham evenly so that each sandwich bite is flavorful.

5. Next, layer the Swiss cheese over the ham. Sliced Swiss cheese is recommended as it melts beautifully and provides a classic flavor pairing with the ham.

6. Carefully place the top halves of the Hawaiian sweet rolls back onto the cheese-covered ham.

7. Using a knife, cut around each individual sandwich, separating them but keeping them close together on the sheet pan. This allows the buttery glaze to seep into each sandwich while baking.

8. Now, for the magic ingredient: the glaze! In a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter.

9. Once the butter is melted, combine it with the brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, and poppy seeds. Whisk these ingredients together until well combined and the brown sugar has dissolved. This mixture is the key to the sandwich’s irresistible flavor.

10. Pour the buttery glaze evenly over the tops of the sandwiches, making sure to saturate each roll. The glaze will seep down into the sandwiches as they bake, creating a moist and flavorful interior.

11. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep a close eye on the sandwiches to prevent them from burning.

12. Once baked, remove the sandwiches from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Make-Ahead Magic: You can assemble the sandwiches (up to the baking step) a day in advance. Cover them tightly with plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator. Add a couple of minutes to the baking time if baking directly from the fridge.
• Cheese Choices: While Swiss is the classic choice, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like provolone, Gruyere, or even a sharp cheddar for a bolder flavor.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the glaze for a subtle kick of heat.
• Even Baking: If your oven has hot spots, rotate the baking sheet halfway through the baking time to ensure even browning.
• Glaze Consistency: If the glaze seems too thick, add a tablespoon of melted butter or a splash of milk to thin it out.
• Herb Infusion: Add dried thyme or rosemary to the butter mixture for a herbaceous variation.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

These appetizer sandwiches are best served warm, straight from the oven. They are perfect for parties, potlucks, game day gatherings, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests with a simple yet delicious dish.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, wrap the sandwiches in foil and bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave them, but the rolls may become slightly softer. While possible, freezing is not recommended as it affects the texture of the rolls.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	230.5 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	152 kcal	N/A
Total Fat	16.9 g	25%
Saturated Fat	9.4 g	47%
Cholesterol	59.3 mg	19%
Sodium	655 mg	27%
Total Carbohydrate	8.1 g	2%
Dietary Fiber	0.9 g	3%
Sugars	5.1 g	20%
Protein	11.8 g	23%

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

Variations & Substitutions

• Gluten-Free Option: While the classic recipe uses Hawaiian sweet rolls, you can adapt it using gluten-free sweet rolls. Look for brands that mimic the soft, slightly sweet texture of the original rolls.
• Meat Alternatives: Substitute the ham with thinly sliced turkey, roast beef, or even vegetarian deli slices for a different flavor profile.
• Cheese Variations: Experiment with different types of cheese such as provolone, mozzarella, pepper jack, or even a cream cheese spread for a unique twist.
• Sweet and Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the glaze for a sweet and spicy flavor combination. You can also add a drizzle of honey or maple syrup for extra sweetness.
• Garlic Herb Butter: Replace the melted butter with garlic herb butter for a savory and aromatic flavor. Mince fresh garlic and mix it with herbs like parsley, thyme, and rosemary, then combine with the melted butter.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I make these sandwiches ahead of time?
A: Yes! Assemble the sandwiches up to the baking step and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Add a few minutes to the baking time if baking directly from the fridge.

Q: Can I use a different type of roll?
A: While Hawaiian sweet rolls are recommended for their signature sweetness and soft texture, you can experiment with other types of rolls like slider buns or brioche rolls.

Q: Can I freeze these sandwiches?
A: Freezing is not recommended as it can affect the texture of the rolls, making them soggy.

Q: How do I prevent the bottoms of the rolls from getting soggy?
A: Make sure to use a baking sheet with a slight lip to prevent the glaze from pooling underneath the sandwiches.

Q: Can I add vegetables to these sandwiches?
A: While the classic recipe doesn’t include vegetables, you can add a thin layer of sliced onions, pickles, or roasted red peppers for extra flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

These “Better Than Sex” appetizer sandwiches are truly a crowd-pleaser! With their simple ingredients and easy preparation, they’re the perfect choice for any occasion. The combination of sweet rolls, savory ham and cheese, and that addictive glaze is simply irresistible. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to experience a taste sensation that will have everyone coming back for more. Don’t be surprised if these become your new go-to appetizer! I encourage you to try this recipe and share your feedback. Pair these sandwiches with a crisp salad or a refreshing beverage for a complete and satisfying meal.