The aroma of freshly baked Ham and Cheese Pinwheels wafts through the air, teasing your senses with promises of warm, gooey cheese and perfectly seasoned ham. As you bite into the flaky, golden pastry, the flavors meld together in a delicious dance that leaves you craving more.
Every time I prepare these delightful pinwheels, I’m transported back to family gatherings where they disappeared faster than a magician’s rabbit. Ideal for parties, picnics, or just a cozy movie night, these treats never fail to impress!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Ham and Cheese Pinwheels are incredibly easy to make, perfect for snacking or entertaining guests
- The flavor combination is irresistible, creating a savory experience in every bite
- Visually appealing with their swirled design, they add a touch of elegance to any occasion
- Versatile enough to customize with your favorite fillings, these pinwheels adapt to any taste preference
I vividly remember the first time I made Ham and Cheese Pinwheels for a potluck; my friends devoured them and kept asking for the recipe!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Puff Pastry: Use store-bought puff pastry for convenience; it puffs up beautifully when baked.
Deli Ham: Choose your favorite ham variety for the best flavor; thinly sliced works best.
Shredded Cheese: Opt for sharp cheddar or mozzarella; they melt wonderfully and complement the ham perfectly.
Mustard: A dash of Dijon mustard adds tanginess; feel free to use honey mustard for sweetness.
Egg Wash: Beat one egg with a splash of water for that golden finish on top.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup later.
Roll Out the Puff Pastry: Unroll the puff pastry onto a lightly floured surface. Allow it to thaw slightly if it’s too stiff. This helps in rolling it out evenly.
Add Your Fillings: Spread a thin layer of mustard all over the pastry. Next, layer on slices of ham evenly and sprinkle shredded cheese over it generously.
Roll and Slice: Starting from one edge, gently roll the pastry towards the other edge until you have a tight log. Cut it into 1-inch thick slices using a sharp knife.
Brush with Egg Wash: Place each slice on the prepared baking sheet and brush them generously with egg wash. This gives them that shiny golden color when baked.
Bake Until Golden Brown: Bake in preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes or until they puff up and turn golden brown. Enjoy the heavenly aroma wafting through your kitchen!
Serve warm and watch as everyone flocks to enjoy these delectable Ham and Cheese Pinwheels!
You Must Know
- Ham and Cheese Pinwheels are perfect for gatherings
- They are easy to make, deliciously cheesy, and can be customized with your favorite fillings
- Their flaky texture and savory aroma will have everyone coming back for more, making them a crowd-pleaser
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the dough, spread your filling evenly, and slice into pinwheels. Bake until golden brown, about 15-20 minutes.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out ham for turkey or add veggies like spinach or bell peppers. Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack for a spicy kick.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover pinwheels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve the perfect pinwheel, ensure you evenly spread your filling without overstuffing
- Roll tightly to maintain shape during baking
- Experiment with herbs for an extra flavor boost that elevates your dish!
Sharing my first batch of Ham and Cheese Pinwheels was unforgettable; my friends devoured them within minutes, demanding seconds and thirds!
FAQ
What is the best type of cheese for Ham and Cheese Pinwheels?
Cheddar, mozzarella, or Swiss all work wonderfully in these tasty pinwheels.
Can I make Ham and Cheese Pinwheels ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare them a day ahead and bake right before serving for freshness.
What can I serve with Ham and Cheese Pinwheels?
These delicious bites pair well with a fresh salad or dipping sauces like ranch or mustard.
Ham and Cheese Pinwheels
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings (24 pinwheels) 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful flavors of Ham and Cheese Pinwheels, where flaky puff pastry meets gooey melted cheese and savory ham. Perfect for parties, movie nights, or casual gatherings, these irresistible bites are easy to make and even easier to devour. With a customizable filling option, you can tailor them to suit any palate, making them a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love!
Ingredients
- 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed)
- 8 oz deli ham (thinly sliced)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 egg (beaten with a splash of water for egg wash)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface until smooth.
- Spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard over the pastry.
- Layer thin slices of ham evenly on top followed by shredded cheddar cheese.
- Roll the pastry tightly from one edge to the other and slice into 1-inch thick pinwheels.
- Place the pinwheels on the baking sheet and brush with egg wash.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Snack/Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 pinwheels (80g)
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 19g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
