Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pinwheels

Introduction

Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pinwheels are a delicious and simple snack or appetizer that is perfect for any occasion. These savory treats combine the flaky, buttery goodness of puff pastry with the classic combination of ham and cheese, making them a crowd-pleasing favorite. With just a few ingredients like Dijon mustard, ham, cheese, and fresh parsley, you can create an elegant yet easy-to-make dish that everyone will love. Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for an after-school snack, or needing a quick and tasty appetizer, these pinwheels fit the bill. The puff pastry crisps up beautifully in the oven, creating a golden, flaky exterior that holds together a melty, savory filling of ham, cheese, and a tangy hint of mustard. These pinwheels are versatile, too – you can mix and match your choice of cheese or add herbs and spices to suit your taste. Best of all, they can be prepared ahead of time and baked just before serving, making them a fantastic addition to any busy day.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Easy to Make – With only a few ingredients, these pinwheels come together in no time, perfect for a quick snack or appetizer.
2. Delicious and Savory – The combination of ham, cheese, and Dijon mustard creates a flavorful bite that’s sure to satisfy.
3. Flaky and Crispy – The puff pastry gives these pinwheels a light, crispy texture that everyone will enjoy.
4. Customizable – You can swap out the ham for other deli meats, and try different cheeses to make them your own.
5. Perfect for Any Occasion – Whether it’s a party, a family gathering, or a snack, these pinwheels are ideal for any event.

this RECIPE

Ingredients

• Puff pastry
• Dijon mustard
• Ham (sliced)
• Cheese (your choice of cheese, such as Swiss, cheddar, or mozzarella)
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Variations

• Different Cheeses – Swap out the cheese for your favorite variety, such as mozzarella, cheddar, provolone, or Gruyère, depending on your taste.
• Spicy Kick – Add a little heat by mixing in some hot sauce or crushed red pepper flakes with the Dijon mustard.
• Vegetarian Option – Skip the ham and use sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or roasted vegetables as a filling instead.
• Herb Infused – Experiment with fresh herbs such as thyme or rosemary mixed into the mustard for a fragrant touch.
• Add Pesto – Spread a thin layer of pesto sauce on the pastry before adding the cheese and ham for an extra burst of flavor.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Puff Pastry

Roll out the puff pastry on a flat surface, ensuring it is smooth and even. If the pastry is too thick, roll it out slightly to create a thinner base.

Step 3: Spread the Dijon Mustard

Spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard over the entire surface of the puff pastry, leaving a small border around the edges.

Step 4: Add Ham and Cheese

Layer the slices of ham evenly over the mustard-coated pastry. Then, sprinkle your choice of cheese over the ham. You can use one type of cheese or mix several for a variety of flavors.

Step 5: Roll the Pastry

Carefully roll the pastry up tightly, starting from one edge. Make sure the roll is secure so that the filling stays inside while baking.

Step 6: Slice into Pinwheels

Once the pastry is rolled up, slice it into 1-inch wide pinwheels. Place the pinwheels onto the prepared baking sheet.

Step 7: Bake

Bake the pinwheels in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until they are golden brown and puffed up. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t burn.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Once baked, remove the pinwheels from the oven and let them cool slightly. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Chill the Pastry – If the puff pastry becomes too soft while you’re working with it, place it in the fridge for 10-15 minutes to firm up before slicing.
• Use Room Temperature Ingredients – Allow the cheese and ham to come to room temperature before using them for easier spreading and rolling.
• Don’t Overfill – Avoid overfilling the pinwheels, as it can make them difficult to roll and could cause them to spill out during baking.
• Brush with Egg Wash – For a golden, glossy finish, brush the top of the pinwheels with a little beaten egg before baking.
• Ensure Even Slicing – Use a sharp knife to slice the pinwheels evenly, ensuring they cook uniformly.

How to Serve

These Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pinwheels are delicious when served warm, straight from the oven. They are perfect for a variety of occasions, including:

• Appetizers for Parties – Serve them as bite-sized appetizers at your next party or gathering.
• After-School Snack – A quick and satisfying snack for kids after school.
• Game Day – These pinwheels are great for game day or any casual get-together.
• Lunch or Dinner – Serve them as part of a light lunch or alongside a salad for a more substantial meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store the pinwheels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to crisp them up again.

Freezing

You can freeze the pinwheels before baking. Simply assemble the pinwheels, place them on a baking sheet, and freeze until firm. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to bake, just place them directly on a baking sheet and bake from frozen, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time.

Reheating

To reheat, place the pinwheels on a baking sheet and warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different mustard besides Dijon?

Yes, you can use yellow mustard or spicy brown mustard if you prefer a different flavor.

2. Can I use any type of cheese?

Absolutely! Cheddar, mozzarella, Swiss, or even a blend of cheeses would work great for these pinwheels.

3. Can I make these without ham?

Yes, you can substitute the ham with other fillings like turkey, chicken, or even a vegetarian option like sautéed spinach or mushrooms.

4. Can I prepare these in advance?

Yes, you can assemble the pinwheels and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.

5. Can I freeze the pinwheels?

Yes, you can freeze the unbaked pinwheels and bake them later. They freeze well for up to 3 months.

6. Can I make these without puff pastry?

If you prefer, you can use phyllo dough or crescent roll dough as a substitute for puff pastry.

7. How can I make these spicier?

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the Dijon mustard to give the pinwheels a spicy kick.

8. What’s the best way to store leftovers?

Store any leftover pinwheels in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.

9. Can I add more fillings to these pinwheels?

Yes! You can add other ingredients like sautéed onions, olives, or even a sprinkle of garlic powder for extra flavor.

10. How can I make these vegetarian?

Substitute the ham with roasted vegetables, spinach, or a mixture of mushrooms and onions for a vegetarian version.

Conclusion

Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pinwheels are the perfect combination of convenience, flavor, and versatility. With their flaky texture, savory filling, and easy preparation, they make an excellent snack, appetizer, or even a light meal. Whether you’re entertaining guests or simply looking for something quick and delicious, these pinwheels are sure to be a hit. Customize them with your favorite cheeses and seasonings to make them your own, and enjoy the satisfying crunch and gooey cheese with every bite!

Print