1-First Step: Get your workspace ready Lay out a clean cutting board, countertop, or hard surface. Make sure your cream cheese is soft enough to spread easily, especially if you are using the regular kind. If it is too firm, let it sit at room temperature for a bit. This small step saves a lot of frustration later.

2-Second Step: Prepare the ham slices Place one slice of ham flat on your surface. Try not to bunch it up or fold it too much, because you want room for the cream cheese and pickle. Thin deli-style ham works best since it rolls tightly without tearing.

3-Third Step: Spread the cream cheese Spoon about 1 tablespoon of cream cheese over each slice of ham. Spread it in a thin, even layer, but leave a little border around the edges so it does not squeeze out everywhere when you roll it. If you are using whipped cream cheese, this part gets even easier because it spreads like a dream.

4-Fourth Step: Add the pickle Place one whole pickle in the center of the ham slice. If your pickles are especially large, you can trim them a little so the roll ups stay neat. For extra crunch, some people like to use quartered kosher-style pickles instead of whole ones. That gives you a sharper bite and a slightly different look.

5-Fifth Step: Roll it up tightly Starting at one side, roll the ham around the pickle as tightly as you can without tearing the meat. The cream cheese should help seal the edge. Press the seam gently so the roll stays shut. Repeat this with all 16 slices of ham and all 16 pickles.

6-Sixth Step: Slice into bite-sized pieces Once the rolls are assembled, slice them into equal bite-sized parts if you want smaller appetizer pieces. A sharp knife works best here. You can cut each roll in half or into several smaller rounds, depending on how you want to serve them. If you are packing them for lunch, you may want to leave them whole.

7-Seventh Step: Chill before serving Place the finished roll ups in the refrigerator until you are ready to serve. Chilling helps them firm up and makes them easier to slice and eat. They also taste better cold, which is one reason they are such a great make-ahead snack. If you are serving them at a party, keep them chilled until the last minute so they stay fresh and firm.