These ham and cheese pinwheels are a fun and tasty snack! With soft tortillas, savory ham, and melted cheese, they are easy to whip up for any occasion.
They’re perfect for a quick lunch or party platter. I love rolling them up with my kids—they make a delightful twirl! Give them a try for your next snack time! 🌯
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Puff Pastry: This flaky pastry creates a delightful texture. If you can’t find it, you can use refrigerated crescent roll dough or even tortillas for a different twist!
Deli Ham: Any cooked ham works well here. If you prefer, turkey or chicken slices can be a nice substitution for a lighter option.
Cheese: Cheddar is classic, but you can mix it up! Try mozzarella for a gooey stretch or Swiss for a nutty flavor.
Dijon Mustard or Mayonnaise: These are optional, but they add a great tang. If you don’t have them, a bit of cream cheese spread can add richness, too.
Herbs: Dried parsley or Italian seasoning enhances the flavor. Fresh herbs can add brightness if you have them on hand—basil or chives would be delightful!
How Do I Roll and Cut the Puff Pastry Without Making a Mess?
Rolling and cutting the puff pastry can be tricky, but here’s how to do it easily:
- Make sure your surface is lightly floured to prevent sticking.
- Roll the pastry away from you to maintain a tight log, ensuring filling is evenly spread throughout.
- When slicing, use a sharp knife and make clean cuts to avoid squishing the pinwheels.
- Chill the rolled pastry for 15 minutes if it feels too soft before cutting. This will firm it up for easier slicing.
With these tips, you’ll have beautiful pinwheels ready to bake in no time!
Ham And Cheese Pinwheels
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed
- 6 slices of deli ham
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your preferred cheese)
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard or mayonnaise (optional)
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley or Italian seasoning
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Time Estimate:
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of preparation time, plus 15-18 minutes for baking. In total, you’ll need about 30-35 minutes to prep and enjoy these tasty pinwheels!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Take a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper. This will prevent the pinwheels from sticking, making cleanup a breeze!
2. Roll Out the Pastry:
On a lightly floured surface, roll out your thawed puff pastry sheet into a rectangle about 12×9 inches. Make sure it’s nice and even so that the pinwheels bake evenly!
3. Spread the Base:
If you’d like an extra kick of flavor, spread the Dijon mustard or mayonnaise evenly over the pastry. This step is optional, but it adds a lovely tang!
4. Layer with Ham and Cheese:
Evenly place the slices of deli ham over the pastry. After that, sprinkle your shredded cheese on top. Feel free to mix different cheeses for a fun twist!
5. Roll It Up:
Now, starting from one long edge of the rectangle, carefully roll the pastry up tightly into a log shape. The tighter you roll, the better your pinwheels will hold together!
6. Slice the Pinwheels:
Using a sharp knife, cut the rolled log into approximately 1-inch wide slices. Aim for even sizes so they bake at the same time.
7. Arrange on a Baking Sheet:
Place the pinwheels cut side down on the lined baking sheet, giving them some space for expansion as they puff up while baking.
8. Brush with Egg Wash:
Using a pastry brush, apply the beaten egg on the tops of the pinwheels. This will give them a beautiful golden color as they bake!
9. Add Seasoning:
Sprinkle your dried parsley or Italian seasoning on top of the pinwheels for added flavor and a lovely presentation.
10. Bake to Perfection:
Put the baking sheet in the oven and bake for about 15-18 minutes, or until the pinwheels are puffed, golden brown, and the cheese has melted. Keep an eye on them!
11. Cool and Serve:
Once they are out of the oven, let the pinwheels cool slightly before serving. These little bites are delicious warm and make perfect appetizers, snacks, or party treats!
Enjoy your delightful ham and cheese pinwheels! 🌯
Can I Use Fresh Ham Instead of Deli Ham?
Absolutely! You can use freshly cooked ham or even leftover holiday ham. Just make sure to slice it thinly so it rolls easily and fits well within the pastry.
What Can I Use Instead of Puff Pastry?
If you don’t have puff pastry, you can use refrigerated crescent roll dough or even tortillas. Just keep in mind that the texture and bake time may vary slightly.
How Do I Store Leftover Pinwheels?
Store any leftover pinwheels in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to regain their crispiness!
Can I Freeze Ham And Cheese Pinwheels?
Yes! You can freeze the unbaked pinwheels. Simply wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. When you’re ready to bake, cook them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
