Ham and Cheese Pinwheels: A Delicious and Easy Snack

If you’re craving an easy and delicious snack or appetizer, look no further than Ham and Cheese Pinwheels. These delightful little bites are made with flaky puff pastry, savory ham, and melty cheese, all wrapped up in a cute pinwheel shape. Whether you’re hosting a party, preparing a quick snack, or making lunchboxes more exciting, these pinwheels will be a hit every time. Let’s dive into this simple yet mouthwatering recipe!

Why You’ll Love Ham and Cheese Pinwheels

1. Easy and Quick to Make

These pinwheels come together in just 30 minutes, making them perfect for busy days or last-minute gatherings. With just a few ingredients, you can create an impressive snack or appetizer.

2. Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether it’s game day, a picnic, or a casual get-together, these pinwheels are a crowd-pleaser. They’re also great for lunchboxes or a light dinner.

3. Customizable

Feel free to switch up the cheese, ham, or even add extra vegetables or seasonings to create your own variation.

4. Delicious and Addictive

The combination of crispy pastry, savory ham, and melty cheese creates a flavor explosion in every bite. Plus, the Dijon mustard adds an extra zing!

5. Great for Meal Prep

Make a batch of these pinwheels in advance and store them in the fridge or freezer. When you need a quick meal or snack, just pop them in the oven for a few minutes.

Ingredients for Ham and Cheese Pinwheels

For the Pinwheels:

• 1 sheet of puff pastry (thawed, about 10×10 inches)
• 8 oz (225 g) thinly sliced ham (deli or cooked ham)
• 1 cup (100 g) shredded cheddar cheese (or Swiss, mozzarella, or provolone)
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard (or yellow mustard if preferred)
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

For the Dipping Sauce (optional):

• ¼ cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons honey mustard
• 1 teaspoon honey (for a hint of sweetness)
• Dash of hot sauce (optional, for a little kick)

How to Make Ham and Cheese Pinwheels: Step-by-Step

Step 1: Prepare the Puff Pastry

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Roll out the thawed puff pastry on a lightly floured surface into a rectangle about 10×12 inches. If it’s a bit sticky, lightly dust it with flour.

Step 2: Add the Mustard and Ham

Spread the Dijon mustard evenly over the puff pastry, leaving a small border around the edges.
Layer the sliced ham evenly over the mustard, covering the entire surface. Make sure the ham slices slightly overlap to create a nice layer.

Step 3: Add the Cheese

Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the ham. You can use a single type of cheese or a combination, depending on your preference.

Step 4: Roll and Slice

Starting from one long edge, roll the pastry tightly into a log. Brush the edge with a little bit of egg wash to seal the seam.
Using a sharp knife, cut the log into ½-inch (1 cm) slices. You should end up with about 12-14 pinwheels.

Step 5: Brush and Bake

Place the pinwheels on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart. Brush the tops with egg wash to give them a beautiful golden color.
Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the pinwheels are golden brown and puffed.

Step 6: Serve

Remove the pinwheels from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce or as-is—they’re delicious either way!

Tips for Making the Best Ham and Cheese Pinwheels

1. Thaw the Puff Pastry Properly

Make sure the puff pastry is fully thawed but still cold before using. This will make it easier to roll and prevent it from tearing.

2. Use Thinly Sliced Ham

Thin ham works best as it rolls up nicely and doesn’t make the pinwheels too bulky.

3. Don’t Overfill

Less is more when it comes to fillings. Too much ham or cheese can make the pinwheels difficult to roll and may cause them to lose shape.

4. Chill Before Baking

If the dough becomes too soft while assembling, pop the rolled log in the fridge for about 15 minutes before slicing. This will help maintain the shape and create cleaner cuts.

5. Make-Ahead and Freeze

You can assemble the pinwheels ahead of time, freeze them on a baking sheet until firm, and then store them in a freezer bag. Bake straight from frozen for an extra 2-3 minutes.

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FAQs

1. Can I use homemade dough instead of puff pastry?
   Yes! You can use homemade pizza dough or crescent roll dough for a different texture. Just adjust the baking time accordingly.
2. Can I make these pinwheels in advance?
   Absolutely! You can prepare the pinwheels and store them in the fridge before baking. Just pop them in the oven when you’re ready to serve.
3. Can I freeze the pinwheels before baking?
   Yes, you can freeze the unbaked pinwheels on a tray until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. What other cheeses work well in this recipe?
   Try using Swiss, Gouda, Mozzarella, or Provolone for a unique flavor twist. Sharp cheddar also adds a great punch.
5. What dipping sauces pair well with these pinwheels?
   Some great options include honey mustard, ranch, barbecue sauce, or even a cheese dip.
6. Can I make a vegetarian version?
   Yes, simply omit the ham and add roasted veggies or sautéed mushrooms for a tasty vegetarian option.
7. What kind of ham works best?
   Thinly sliced deli ham or leftover baked ham works great. Avoid thick slices, as they may make rolling difficult.
8. How do I store leftovers?
   Store leftover pinwheels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for the best texture.
9. Can I serve these at room temperature?
   Yes, they taste great both warm and at room temperature, making them perfect for parties and gatherings.
10. Can I use puff pastry sheets instead of a roll?
    Definitely! Just ensure the sheet is rolled out to about 10×12 inches before adding the filling.