If you’re looking for a quick, delicious snack or appetizer, Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pinwheels are a must-try! These delightful bites feature a flaky, buttery puff pastry filled with savory ham and melted cheese. They’re perfect for parties, brunches, or a simple weeknight treat. The best part? They’re so easy to make!
Let’s dive into how you can prepare these ham and cheese pinwheels that will surely impress your guests (and your taste buds)!
Ingredients
- 1 sheet of puff pastry (thawed, if frozen)
- 1 cup deli ham, thinly sliced
- 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese (or your favorite cheese like cheddar or mozzarella)
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard (optional for extra flavor)
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This will prevent the puff pastry from sticking while baking and ensure an easy cleanup.
Step 2: Prepare the Puff Pastry
Unroll the sheet of puff pastry onto a clean surface. If it’s a bit cold and hard to unroll, let it sit for a minute to soften slightly. Use a rolling pin to smooth out the edges and make sure the pastry is an even rectangle.
Step 3: Spread the Mustard (Optional)
If you’re using Dijon mustard, spread a thin layer over the entire surface of the puff pastry. This adds a tangy kick to the pinwheels, but you can skip this step if you prefer a simpler flavor profile.
Step 4: Layer with Ham and Cheese
Evenly layer the thinly sliced ham over the puff pastry. After the ham, sprinkle the shredded Swiss cheese evenly across the pastry, making sure to cover the entire surface. If you like extra cheese, feel free to add more!
Step 5: Roll the Pastry
Carefully roll the puff pastry from one end to the other, ensuring that the filling stays in place as you go. The key is to keep the roll tight, but not too tight, to avoid squeezing out the cheese or ham.
Step 6: Slice the Pinwheels
Once the pastry is rolled up, use a sharp knife to slice it into 1-inch thick pinwheels. You should get around 8-10 slices depending on the size of your puff pastry.
Step 7: Bake the Pinwheels
Place the pinwheels on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each one. Brush the tops with the melted butter to give them a golden, glossy finish. Sprinkle a pinch of salt and pepper over the top.
Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the puff pastry is golden brown and crispy, and the cheese has melted.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Once baked, remove the pinwheels from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. If desired, sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley to add a touch of color and freshness. Serve the pinwheels warm and enjoy!
Cooking Notes & Tips
- Use High-Quality Ham: The flavor of the ham is key in these pinwheels, so opt for a good-quality deli ham. You can also use smoked ham for a richer, deeper flavor.
- Cheese Variations: While Swiss cheese works wonderfully in this recipe, you can experiment with other types of cheese. Cheddar, mozzarella, or gouda would all work well in these pinwheels.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the pinwheels in advance by assembling them, then storing them in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Bake them fresh when ready to serve.
- Freezing for Later: To freeze, place the assembled pinwheels on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Bake from frozen at the same temperature, adding a few extra minutes of cook time.
Variations
1. Bacon and Cheese Pinwheels
For an extra indulgent treat, add some crispy bacon bits along with the ham and cheese. The smokiness of the bacon pairs wonderfully with the creamy cheese and savory ham.
2. Veggie and Cheese Pinwheels
If you prefer a vegetarian version, omit the ham and load up the pinwheels with sautéed spinach, bell peppers, mushrooms, and plenty of cheese. This will give you a delicious, veggie-packed pinwheel.
3. Italian Style Pinwheels
Use mozzarella cheese and sliced pepperoni or salami in place of the ham for a fun Italian twist. You could also add a little bit of tomato sauce and oregano for extra flavor.
4. Chicken and Cheese Pinwheels
Swap the ham for cooked, shredded chicken for a heartier version of these pinwheels. Add some BBQ sauce or ranch dressing for a flavorful kick.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use frozen puff pastry for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen puff pastry! Just make sure to thaw it according to the package instructions before using it to make the pinwheels.
2. How can I store leftovers?
Store any leftover pinwheels in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply place them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5-10 minutes to crisp them up.
3. Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the pinwheels in advance, then store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. This is a great option if you’re planning for a party or need to make them ahead for a quick snack.
4. Can I freeze the pinwheels?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled pinwheels (before baking). Lay them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to bake, place them directly from the freezer onto the baking sheet and bake at the usual temperature, adding a few extra minutes.
These Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pinwheels are the perfect combination of flaky, buttery pastry and savory, melty cheese with ham. Whether you’re hosting a party, making snacks for a family gathering, or just craving something delicious, these pinwheels will hit the spot. They’re simple to make, endlessly customizable, and guaranteed to be a hit with anyone who tries them!
Enjoy these irresistible pinwheels fresh out of the oven, and watch them disappear in no time
