Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pinwheels: A Quick and Delicious Treat
Ham and cheese puff pastry pinwheels are a perfect blend of flaky pastry, savory ham, and melted cheese. These delightful bites are ideal for appetizers, snacks, or party treats. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply craving something quick and tasty, these pinwheels are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
- 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed if frozen)
- 6–8 slices of ham (thinly sliced)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning or dried parsley (optional, for garnish)
Preparation Steps:
1. Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the pinwheels from sticking and to ensure easy cleanup.
2. Prepare the Puff Pastry
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the sheet of puff pastry into a rectangular shape. Ensure the pastry is rolled evenly to avoid uneven pinwheels.
3. Layer the Ingredients
- Spread Dijon mustard: If you’re using Dijon mustard for an added flavor kick, spread a thin layer over the surface of the puff pastry.
- Add the ham: Layer the thinly sliced ham evenly across the entire surface of the pastry.
- Sprinkle the cheese: Evenly distribute shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix) over the ham.
4. Roll the Pastry
Carefully start from one of the long edges of the puff pastry and tightly roll it into a log shape. Once rolled, gently press the edge to seal it.
5. Chill the Roll
To make slicing easier, place the rolled pastry in the refrigerator for 10–15 minutes. This helps the pastry firm up and keeps the shape intact when cut.
6. Slice the Pinwheels
Once chilled, remove the roll from the refrigerator and use a sharp knife to slice it into 1/2-inch thick pieces. The pieces should be uniform in size to ensure even baking.
7. Prepare for Baking
Arrange the sliced pinwheels on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each one to allow for puffing as they bake.
8. Apply Egg Wash
In a small bowl, beat the egg and use a pastry brush to coat the tops of the pinwheels with the egg wash. For an added burst of flavor and visual appeal, sprinkle Italian seasoning or dried parsley over the top.
9. Bake
Place the pinwheels in the preheated oven and bake for 15–20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and puffed up. The puff pastry should be crispy and light, with the cheese melted and bubbling inside.
10. Serve
Once baked, allow the pinwheels to cool slightly before serving. These can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, making them the perfect party or gathering treat. Serve them as appetizers, snacks, or even as a light meal.
Why You’ll Love Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pinwheels
These ham and cheese puff pastry pinwheels are a crowd favorite for several reasons:
- Quick and Easy: With minimal ingredients and preparation, they come together in just under 30 minutes.
- Versatile: Perfect for appetizers, snacks, or a party treat—you can also customize them by adding other ingredients like spinach, olives, or herbs.
- Crowd-Pleasing: With their golden, flaky exterior and cheesy, savory interior, these pinwheels are always a hit with guests, kids, and adults alike.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the rolls in advance, refrigerate them, and bake them when you’re ready to serve. Perfect for busy hosts!
Serving Suggestions
Ham and cheese puff pastry pinwheels can be served in a variety of ways to suit different occasions:
- As a Party Appetizer: These pinwheels are bite-sized and perfect for parties. Serve them with a variety of dipping sauces such as mustard, ranch, or sriracha mayo for extra flavor.
- For Brunch: Pair these pinwheels with scrambled eggs and fresh fruit for a savory brunch spread.
- As a Snack: Enjoy them on their own as a quick, tasty snack during the day or after school for the kids.
- Holiday or Special Occasion: Their flaky texture and delicious filling make them an excellent choice for holiday parties, family gatherings, and celebrations.
Tips for the Perfect Ham and Cheese Pinwheels
- Use high-quality ingredients: The better the ham and cheese, the better your pinwheels will taste. Opt for fresh deli ham and a good melting cheese like mozzarella or sharp cheddar.
- Experiment with flavors: For an extra kick, you can add jalapeños, chopped herbs, or garlic powder to the filling.
- Make ahead: If you want to save time, you can assemble the pinwheels and refrigerate them overnight before baking.
Conclusion
These ham and cheese puff pastry pinwheels are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can create a dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing for a gathering, looking for a new snack idea, or simply craving something savory, these pinwheels are sure to be a hit. Try them today and enjoy the delicious combination of flaky pastry, ham, and cheese in every bite.