Ham and cheese pinwheels are the culinary equivalent of a warm hug on a chilly day. Imagine biting into a soft, doughy swirl filled with savory ham, melted cheese, and a hint of mustard that dances on your palate. The aroma wafts through your kitchen, enticing everyone within a five-mile radius to come rushing over for a taste. Turkey melt sliders pairing These delightful little spirals are perfect for parties, game days, or even just a cozy night in, bringing joy and nostalgia in every bite.
I can’t help but recall the first time I made ham and cheese pinwheels for my family. We were having a casual movie night, and I thought these would add some pizzazz to our popcorn feast. The moment they emerged from the oven, golden brown and oozing cheesy goodness, my kids’ eyes lit up like it was Christmas morning. Taco stuffed shells recipe Cheesy stuffed flank steak Trust me; you’re going to want to get in on this flavor adventure!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These ham and cheese pinwheels come together quickly, making them a breeze for busy weeknights
- The combination of flavors is irresistible, with melty cheese and savory ham creating a flavor explosion
- Their visual appeal makes them an instant hit at gatherings or casual dinners
- Plus, they are so versatile; you can easily customize the filling to suit your taste buds!
I remember serving these at my daughter’s birthday party; the kids devoured them in no time!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Puff Pastry Sheets: Opt for store-bought puff pastry for ease; it puffs beautifully when baked.
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Sliced Ham: Choose your favorite type—smoked or honey-glazed adds great flavor. For more inspiration, check out this sticky honey chicken recipe.
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Cream Cheese: Use softened cream cheese for smooth spreading; it binds the filling together perfectly.
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Shredded Cheese: Cheddar or mozzarella works well; feel free to mix cheeses for extra flavor.
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Dijon Mustard: A thin layer adds zing; adjust according to your taste preference.
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Fresh Herbs (optional): Chopped parsley or chives can enhance freshness and color in your pinwheels.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below. Sweet potato hash for breakfast.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature ensures that the pinwheels turn golden brown and crispy.
Prepare Puff Pastry: Roll out one sheet of puff pastry on a lightly floured surface until it’s about 1/8-inch thick. This helps achieve that flaky texture we all crave.
Spread Cream Cheese: Evenly spread softened cream cheese over the entire surface of the pastry. Don’t be shy here—more cream cheese equals more deliciousness!
Layer Ham and Cheese: Place an even layer of sliced ham over the cream cheese followed by shredded cheese. Feel free to toss in some fresh herbs if you like.
Roll It Up: Starting from one edge, carefully roll up the pastry into a tight log. This is where you channel your inner chef—make it as tight as possible without squishing the filling out.
Slice into Pinwheels: Using a sharp knife, slice the log into 1-inch thick pinwheels. Arrange them cut-side up on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Bake Until Golden: Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes until golden brown and bubbly. The aroma will be heavenly; try not to eat them straight from the oven!
Cool Slightly: Allow the pinwheels to cool for a few minutes before serving. They’ll be hot enough to burn your tongue otherwise!
Serve Warm: Serve these delightful ham and cheese pinwheels warm with additional mustard or dipping sauce on the side for an extra kick. For more inspiration, check out this cheesy garlic bombs recipe.
Enjoy every bite as you savor this combination of flavors and textures!
You Must Know
- Ham and cheese pinwheels are perfect for parties or quick snacks
- Their crispy edges and gooey cheese will make everyone smile
- You can easily customize them with your favorite fillings, making them versatile and fun to prepare
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. Roll out your dough, layer on ham and cheese, then slice into pinwheels before baking until golden and crisp.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out regular cheese for pepper jack or add some spinach for extra flavor. Experimenting can lead to delightful surprises!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover pinwheels in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for a few minutes to regain crispness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly rolled pinwheels, ensure your dough is slightly chilled
- Avoid overstuffing; it leads to messy baking
- Brush with egg wash for a beautiful golden finish that impresses everyone!
I still remember the first time I made ham and cheese pinwheels for a family gathering. My cousin couldn’t stop raving about how delicious they were, and I felt like a culinary superstar!
FAQ
Can I use different types of meat in ham and cheese pinwheels?
Absolutely! Turkey or salami work wonderfully as alternatives to ham.
How do I prevent the filling from leaking out during baking?
Ensure you seal the edges well after rolling up each pinwheel tightly.
Can I freeze ham and cheese pinwheels?
Yes, you can freeze them before baking; just bake from frozen when ready to enjoy!
Ham and Cheese Pinwheels
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 pinwheels 1x
Description
Ham and cheese pinwheels are the ultimate comfort food, perfect for any occasion. These delightful spirals feature flaky puff pastry filled with savory ham, creamy cheese, and a touch of mustard for added zing. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a cozy night in, these pinwheels will quickly become a favorite!
Ingredients
- 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed)
- 4 oz sliced ham
- 4 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- 2 tsp Dijon mustard
- Fresh herbs (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface to about 1/8-inch thick.
- Spread the cream cheese evenly over the pastry.
- Layer the sliced ham on top, followed by shredded cheese and optional herbs.
- Roll the pastry tightly from one edge to form a log and slice into 1-inch pinwheels.
- Arrange on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving warm.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 pinwheels (60g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
