(Makes 12–16 pinwheels)
For the Pinwheels:
- 1 sheet refrigerated puff pastry (store-bought), thawed
- 4 slices deli ham (thinly sliced), roughly chopped or torn into small pieces
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or Swiss work well)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional, for added flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder or Italian seasoning (optional)
- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat and Prep
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup.
2. Roll Out the Puff Pastry
- Unroll the puff pastry sheet onto a lightly floured surface.
- Use a rolling pin to gently roll it out into a rectangle, smoothing any seams or folds.
3. Layer the Ingredients
- Spread the Dijon mustard evenly over the puff pastry (if using).
- Sprinkle the chopped ham evenly over the pastry, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Top the ham with shredded cheese, spreading it evenly across the surface.
- Optional: Sprinkle garlic powder or Italian seasoning for extra flavor.
4. Roll and Slice
- Starting from one of the longer sides, tightly roll the puff pastry into a log.
- Use a sharp knife to slice the log into 1-inch thick pieces, creating individual pinwheels.
- Place the pinwheels cut-side up on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1–2 inches apart.
5. Bake
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15–20 minutes, or until the pinwheels are golden brown and puffed up.
- If desired, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end to achieve an extra crispy top.
6. Garnish and Serve
- Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or chives if desired.
- Serve warm as an appetizer, snack, or light meal.
Tips for Success
- Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality ham and cheese for the best flavor.
- Experiment with Fillings: Swap ham for turkey, salami, or even cooked bacon. Add spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or caramelized onions for extra depth.
- Make Ahead: Assemble the pinwheels ahead of time, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
- Freeze for Later: Freeze unbaked pinwheels on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Why This Recipe Works
These Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pinwheels combine the buttery flakiness of puff pastry with the rich, savory flavors of ham and cheese. The layers of flavor are perfectly balanced, and the golden, crispy exterior contrasts beautifully with the soft, cheesy filling. Whether served as an appetizer, snack, or light meal, they’re a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s both comforting and indulgent.
Conclusion: A Bite-Sized Delight
Whether you’re planning a party, craving a quick snack, or simply want to impress your family with something new, these Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pinwheels are sure to delight. Their flaky texture, cheesy-savory filling, and endless customization options make them a standout recipe that’s as practical as it is delicious. Plus, their versatility means you can adapt them to suit any taste or occasion.
We’d love to see your creations! Tag us in your photos or share your favorite variations—your take on these pinwheels might just inspire others to try them too! 🥮✨