Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pinwheels

Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pinwheels are a delightful and easy-to-make snack or appetizer, perfect for any occasion. The buttery, flaky puff pastry pairs perfectly with savory ham and melted cheese, creating a mouthwatering bite that everyone will love. Whether you’re hosting a party, preparing a brunch, or just craving a quick and delicious snack, these pinwheels are an ideal choice. The recipe is simple yet yields impressive results with its golden, crispy exterior and cheesy, flavorful filling. You can even customize the flavors by adding mustard or dried herbs for extra zest. These pinwheels are sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Quick and Easy to Prepare

With just a few simple ingredients and minimal preparation time, you can have a batch of Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pinwheels ready to serve in no time.

2. Versatile

This recipe is highly adaptable. You can swap out the cheese for your favorite variety or use different types of ham. You can even add extras like mustard or herbs to customize the flavor to your liking.

3. Perfect for Any Occasion

These pinwheels are perfect for brunch, a party appetizer, or as a savory snack for kids. They’re also great for meal prepping or packing in lunchboxes.

4. Crispy and Flaky

The puff pastry provides a crispy and flaky texture that perfectly contrasts with the gooey cheese and savory ham inside. Each bite is satisfying and delicious.

5. Customizable and Fun

Let everyone get involved by customizing their pinwheels with different cheeses, meats, or even a drizzle of mustard. They’re fun to make and even more fun to eat.

Ingredients

For the Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pinwheels:

• 1 sheet puff pastry (about 250 g), thawed
• 150 g ham (about 6 slices), thinly sliced
• 1 cup (100 g) shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your choice)
• 1 tablespoon mustard (optional)
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• ½ teaspoon dried herbs (optional, such as oregano or thyme)

Variations

• Cheese Varieties: Experiment with different cheese combinations. Cheddar, mozzarella, Swiss, or Gruyère all work wonderfully in these pinwheels.
• Add Veggies: For an extra burst of flavor, add sautéed spinach, bell peppers, or onions to the filling.
• Use Different Meats: Swap ham for turkey, chicken, or even prosciutto for a new flavor profile.
• Herb Variations: Add a pinch of dried basil, rosemary, or thyme to the filling for added depth of flavor.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Puff Pastry

Roll out the thawed puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface. If necessary, gently roll it out to smooth out any creases and make it a bit larger, about 1/8-inch thick.

Step 2: Add the Mustard (Optional)

If using mustard, spread a thin layer of mustard evenly over the entire surface of the puff pastry. This step is optional, but it adds a tangy kick that complements the ham and cheese.

Step 3: Layer the Ham and Cheese

Place the thinly sliced ham evenly over the puff pastry, covering the entire sheet. Sprinkle the shredded cheese on top of the ham, spreading it evenly across the pastry.

Step 4: Roll Up the Pastry

Starting from one edge, carefully roll the puff pastry sheet into a tight log or cylinder. Be gentle as you roll to prevent the filling from spilling out.

Step 5: Slice the Pinwheels

Once the puff pastry is rolled, slice it into approximately 1-inch wide pinwheels. A sharp knife or serrated knife works best for clean, even slices.

Step 6: Prepare for Baking

Place the pinwheels on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving a little space between each one. Brush the tops of the pinwheels with the beaten egg to give them a golden, glossy finish once baked.

Step 7: Bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the pinwheels for 15-20 minutes, or until the puff pastry is golden brown and crispy and the cheese is melted inside.

Step 8: Serve

Once baked, remove the pinwheels from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs if desired.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Thaw the Puff Pastry: Ensure the puff pastry is fully thawed before using. This will make it easier to work with and help achieve a crispier texture when baked.
• Even Slicing: For uniform pinwheels, use a sharp knife or serrated knife to slice the rolled-up pastry into even pieces.
• Brush with Egg Wash: Don’t skip the egg wash. It helps the pinwheels develop a beautiful golden crust.
• Avoid Overfilling: Be sure not to overfill the pinwheels. A little ham and cheese go a long way, and overstuffing can cause the filling to spill out during baking.

How to Serve

Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pinwheels are perfect on their own as a snack, but they can also be served with a dipping sauce like marinara or mustard. Pair them with a fresh salad or vegetable side for a light meal. These pinwheels are also great for brunches, picnics, or party platters. You can serve them warm or at room temperature, making them a versatile dish for any occasion.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover pinwheels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To keep them crisp, you can reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes.

Freezing

You can freeze the assembled but unbaked pinwheels. After rolling, slice them into pinwheels and place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually for 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag or airtight container. Bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes.

Reheating

To reheat leftover pinwheels, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or until heated through and the pastry is crispy again.

FAQs

1. Can I use different types of cheese for this recipe?

Yes! Cheddar, mozzarella, Swiss, Gruyère, or a blend of cheeses can all work great in this recipe. Choose your favorite cheese or mix and match for different flavors.

2. Can I add vegetables to the filling?

Absolutely! Sautéed spinach, bell peppers, or onions make a great addition to these pinwheels and add extra flavor and nutrition.

3. Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the pinwheels in advance and either refrigerate or freeze them before baking. Just bake them right before serving.

4. Can I make these without mustard?

Yes, mustard is optional, and you can leave it out if you prefer. You can also try different sauces or spreads to replace it.

5. How do I prevent the filling from leaking out while baking?

Make sure the puff pastry is rolled tightly, and don’t overstuff the pinwheels. The egg wash will help seal the edges and keep the filling inside.

6. Can I bake these at a lower temperature?

It’s best to bake them at 375°F (190°C) for optimal puffiness and golden color. Baking at a lower temperature may result in a soggy texture.

7. Can I use pre-sliced deli ham?

Yes, pre-sliced deli ham works perfectly for this recipe. Just ensure the slices are thin for easy rolling.

8. How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover pinwheels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for longer shelf life. Reheat in the oven to restore crispiness.

9. Can I freeze the pinwheels before baking?

Yes, you can freeze them before baking. Once frozen, bake them directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

10. Can I make these without puff pastry?

While puff pastry provides the best texture, you could use phyllo dough or a biscuit dough substitute if you’re looking for an alternative, though the texture may be different.

Conclusion

Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pinwheels are a delicious, easy, and versatile dish that can be enjoyed at any time of day. Whether you serve them as a quick snack, a party appetizer, or a fun meal, they’re always a hit. With crispy pastry, savory ham, and melty cheese, these pinwheels are sure to be a crowd favorite. Customize them to suit your taste, and enjoy the perfect balance of flavors in each bite!

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