Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pinwheels are a crowd-pleasing appetizer or snack that’s as easy to make as they are delicious. These golden, flaky pastries are filled with savory ham and melted cheese, making them perfect for parties, gatherings, or even a quick snack. With just a few ingredients, you can create a delightful treat in no time.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 12 pinwheels
Ingredients
- Puff Pastry: 1 sheet (about 250 g), thawed
- Ham: 150 g (6 slices), thinly sliced
- Cheese: 1 cup (100 g), shredded (cheddar, mozzarella, or your choice)
- Mustard (optional): 1 tablespoon
- Egg: 1, beaten (for egg wash)
- Dried Herbs (optional): ½ teaspoon (oregano or thyme)
Directions
- Prepare the Puff Pastry:
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roll out the puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface into a rectangular shape (if it’s not already).
- Add the Filling:
- Spread a thin layer of mustard over the puff pastry (optional).
- Evenly layer the ham slices on top of the mustard.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the ham.
- Sprinkle dried herbs over the cheese, if desired.
- Roll and Slice:
- Roll the pastry tightly from one long edge to the other to form a log.
- Using a sharp knife, slice the log into 12 equal pieces.
- Assemble and Bake:
- Place the pinwheels flat-side down on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Brush the tops with the beaten egg for a golden finish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown.
- Serve:
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Serve warm or at room temperature.
5 Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a tangy dipping sauce like honey mustard or marinara.
- Serve alongside a fresh green salad for a light meal.
- Add to a charcuterie board for variety.
- Pack in lunchboxes for an easy, portable snack.
- Serve at parties as a quick and easy finger food.
5 Cooking Tips
- Use Cold Puff Pastry: Ensure the puff pastry is cold but pliable for the best puff and texture.
- Customize Fillings: Add spinach, caramelized onions, or even sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor.
- Slice Cleanly: Chill the rolled log in the fridge for 10 minutes before slicing to keep the pinwheels neat.
- Even Baking: Rotate the baking sheet halfway through baking to ensure even browning.
- Reheat Gently: Warm leftovers in the oven to retain crispiness.
Nutritional Benefits
- Ham: A source of protein and iron.
- Cheese: Provides calcium and protein for bone health.
- Puff Pastry: Offers a buttery, satisfying base for indulgent treats.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian: No (use plant-based ham for a vegetarian option).
- Gluten-Free: No (use gluten-free puff pastry).
- Dairy-Free: No (use dairy-free cheese for a dairy-free version).
Nutritional Facts (Per Pinwheel)
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Protein: 5g
- Fat: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Sugar: 1g
Storage
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze the uncooked pinwheels on a tray until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 1 month. Bake directly from frozen, adding 2-3 minutes to the baking time.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 5-7 minutes to regain crispiness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to make with just a few ingredients.
- Perfect for parties, snacks, or light meals.
- Customizable with different fillings to suit your taste.
- Flaky, buttery pastry paired with savory ham and cheese is a winning combination.
- Great for prepping ahead and freezing for later use.
Conclusion
Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pinwheels are an irresistible, savory treat that combines the flaky texture of puff pastry with the classic flavors of ham and cheese. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply craving a quick snack, these pinwheels are a guaranteed hit. Easy to customize and prepare, this recipe is bound to become a favorite in your kitchen.
10 Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use pre-shredded cheese? Yes, but freshly shredded cheese melts better and is less oily.
- Can I make these ahead of time? Yes, assemble and refrigerate the pinwheels for up to 24 hours before baking.
- What other fillings can I use? Try turkey and Swiss cheese, spinach and feta, or pepperoni and mozzarella.
- Can I use frozen puff pastry? Yes, just thaw it in the fridge before use.
- How do I prevent the pinwheels from unrolling? Roll the pastry tightly and use the egg wash to seal the edges.
- What if I don’t have mustard? Skip it or use a thin layer of mayonnaise or cream cheese.
- Can I use whole wheat puff pastry? Yes, for a slightly healthier option.
- How can I make them spicier? Add a pinch of chili flakes or spread a layer of sriracha on the pastry.
- Can I bake these in an air fryer? Yes, cook at 180°C (350°F) for 12-15 minutes, checking halfway.
- How do I store leftovers? Store in the fridge and reheat in the oven to keep them crispy.
Enjoy these flaky, cheesy pinwheels warm out of the oven or save them for later—they’ll be delicious either way! 🥐🧀✨