Ham and cheese pinwheels are the ultimate party snack that’ll make you feel like a culinary wizard without breaking a sweat. Imagine biting into a soft, flaky pastry filled with savory ham and gooey melted cheese, all rolled up like a delicious little present. They’re perfect for game day gatherings, family movie nights, or any occasion where you want to impress your friends without spending hours in the kitchen.
Every time I whip up these delightful bites, I’m transported back to my childhood school potlucks, where the smell of baked goodies wafted through the air. My friends would gather around, eyes wide with anticipation as I pulled out my secret weapon—ham and cheese pinwheels! They’re just as enjoyable to make as they are to eat, creating memories that last longer than the snacks themselves.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These ham and cheese pinwheels are incredibly easy to prepare, making them perfect for last-minute gatherings
- The combination of flavors is absolutely delectable; who can resist that melty cheese?
- Their spiral shape makes them visually appealing on any platter at parties
- Plus, they’re versatile—you can switch up the fillings based on what’s in your fridge!
I still remember when I first served these at a family gathering—everyone went wild for them!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Puff Pastry: Use thawed sheets for a flaky texture; it’s the magic behind those beautiful layers.
Deli Ham: Choose your favorite type of deli ham; it adds a savory depth to each bite.
Shredded Cheese: Opt for a blend of cheeses like cheddar and mozzarella for extra flavor.
Mustard or Cream Cheese: A thin layer enhances flavor and helps hold everything together.
Egg Wash: Whisked egg gives the pinwheels that golden-brown finish when baked.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
First step: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures even cooking and prevents sticking.
Next up: Roll out your puff pastry on a lightly floured surface until it’s smooth and even. Don’t be shy; this is where the fun begins!
Spread it generously: Evenly spread mustard or cream cheese across the entire pastry sheet. This layer adds flavor and moisture throughout.
Add the goods: Layer slices of deli ham over the cream cheese followed by an abundant sprinkle of shredded cheese. You want cheesy goodness in every roll!
Roll it up tightly: Starting from one end, carefully roll the pastry into a tight log shape. The tighter you roll, the better your pinwheels will hold together during baking.
Slice and bake: Cut the rolled pastry into 1-inch thick slices and place them on your prepared baking sheet. Brush each pinwheel with egg wash for that gorgeous golden color while baking.
Bake away: Pop them in your preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes or until they’re puffy and golden brown—your kitchen will smell heavenly!
Serve warm: Let them cool slightly before serving—if you can resist! They taste best fresh out of the oven but can also be enjoyed at room temperature.
And there you have it—delicious ham and cheese pinwheels ready to steal the show at your next gathering!
You Must Know
- Ham and cheese pinwheels are perfect for parties; they’re easy to make, portable, and loved by everyone
- The combination of crispy dough and melty cheese creates an irresistible flavor explosion
- Plus, you can customize them with your favorite fillings for endless variations!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the dough, spread the filling, and slice evenly before baking for 15-20 minutes until golden brown. This sequence ensures your pinwheels cook evenly and come out perfectly crispy.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap ham for turkey or add veggies like spinach or bell peppers. You can also experiment with different cheeses such as mozzarella or pepper jack for a spicy kick. The possibilities are endless for your creative flair!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover pinwheels in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, pop them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes or until warmed through and crispy again.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always use parchment paper on your baking sheet to avoid stickiness
- Make sure to roll the dough tightly so the filling stays inside during baking
- Don’t be shy with seasonings; a pinch of garlic powder adds a delightful flavor punch!
One time, I brought these ham and cheese pinwheels to a potluck, and they vanished faster than I could say “snack attack.” Friends were begging me for the recipe, which felt pretty awesome!
FAQ
What type of dough works best for ham and cheese pinwheels?
You can use puff pastry, crescent roll dough, or pizza dough based on your preference.
Can I freeze ham and cheese pinwheels?
Yes, freeze them unbaked; just bake from frozen when you’re ready to enjoy!
How do I prevent my pinwheels from getting soggy?
Make sure not to overload with filling and bake until golden brown for crispiness.
Ham and Cheese Pinwheels
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Ham and cheese pinwheels are the perfect bite-sized treat for any gathering. These flaky, savory delights feature layers of tender puff pastry filled with savory deli ham and gooey melted cheese, making them an instant crowd-pleaser. Simple to prepare and ready in under 30 minutes, they are ideal for game days, parties, or family movie nights. Customize the fillings to suit your taste, ensuring every bite is a little piece of heaven!
Ingredients
- 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed)
- 6 oz deli ham (sliced)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar and mozzarella blend)
- 2 tbsp mustard or cream cheese
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roll out the thawed puff pastry on a floured surface until smooth.
- Spread mustard or cream cheese evenly over the pastry.
- Layer deli ham and sprinkle shredded cheese on top.
- Roll the pastry tightly into a log shape and slice into 1-inch thick pieces.
- Place pinwheels on the baking sheet, brush with egg wash, and bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 pinwheel (29g)
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 330mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
