Ham and cheese pinwheels are fun little bites filled with savory ham and gooey cheese, all rolled up in a soft tortilla. Perfect for snacks or parties!
They disappear so fast, you’ll think they have magical powers! 🎉 I love making these when friends come over; they’re simple to prepare and super tasty!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Puff Pastry: This is the star of the dish, giving the pinwheels their flaky texture. If you can’t find puff pastry, you can use crescent rolls or tortilla wraps as an alternative.
Deli Ham: While I love using classic deli ham, feel free to swap it for turkey, chicken, or even a vegetarian option like roasted veggies or spinach.
Shredded Cheese: I recommend cheddar for a tangy flavor or mozzarella for gooeyness. You can also use a cheese blend. If you’re dairy-free, try using vegan cheese shreds instead.
Dijon Mustard or Mayonnaise: These add extra flavor, but if you prefer a milder taste, you can skip this or use a bit of cream cheese instead for richness.
How Do I Get Perfectly Golden Pinwheels?
The key to getting your pinwheels perfectly golden lies in the egg wash and proper baking. The egg wash gives the tops that lovely shine and color.
- Mix the egg with water until smooth, beating well.
- Brush the mixture gently on the tops of each pinwheel before baking.
- Watch them closely while baking to avoid over-browning, as oven temperatures can vary.
These tips ensure you get beautifully baked pinwheels every time! Enjoy your cooking!
Ham And Cheese Pinwheels
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 package (about 1 sheet) puff pastry, thawed
- 6 slices deli ham
- 1 to 1 ½ cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard or mayonnaise (optional, for flavor)
- 1 tsp dried oregano or Italian seasoning
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- 1 tbsp water
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15-20 minutes to bake. So, in roughly 30-35 minutes, you’ll be enjoying warm, cheesy ham pinwheels that are sure to impress your family or guests!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure your pinwheels bake perfectly. Also, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Roll Out the Puff Pastry:
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the thawed puff pastry into a rectangle, about 12×9 inches. This will be your base for the pinwheels.
3. Add Flavor:
If you’d like some extra flavor, spread Dijon mustard or mayonnaise evenly over the surface of the pastry. This step is optional but yummy!
4. Layer with Ham:
Next, layer the ham evenly over the pastry, making sure to cover the entire area. This adds a savory depth to the pinwheels.
5. Top with Cheese:
Now, sprinkle the shredded cheese generously on top of the ham. You can mix cheddar and mozzarella for extra flavor and gooeyness!
6. Add Seasoning:
Sprinkle the dried oregano or Italian seasoning over the cheese to give it a nice herbal kick!
7. Roll the Pastry:
Starting from one long edge, carefully roll the pastry up tightly into a log. Make sure it’s snug to hold everything together!
8. Slice the Pinwheels:
Using a sharp knife, slice the log into 1/2 to 3/4-inch thick pinwheels. You should see beautiful layers of ham and cheese!
9. Arrange on Baking Sheet:
Place the pinwheels flat on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart to allow for puffing while baking.
10. Prepare Egg Wash:
In a small bowl, beat the egg with water to create an egg wash. Brush the tops of the pinwheels with this mixture for a beautiful golden finish!
11. Bake the Pinwheels:
Bake the pinwheels in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until they are puffed, golden brown, and the cheese is melted.
12. Cool and Serve:
Once out of the oven, let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy these warm, cheesy bites at your next gathering!
Now you’re ready to impress with these delightful ham and cheese pinwheels! Perfect for parties, snacks, or appetizers. Enjoy! 🎉
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! You can use any cheese you like, such as Swiss, gouda, or pepper jack for a bit of spice. Just keep in mind that some cheeses melt differently, so experiment to find your favorite combination!
Can I Make These Pinwheels Vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make these pinwheels vegetarian by omitting the ham and adding roasted vegetables, spinach, or even a layer of hummus for added flavor. Get creative with your favorite fillings!
How Do I Store Leftover Pinwheels?
Store any leftover pinwheels in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until they’re warmed through and crispy again.
Can I Freeze These Pinwheels?
Yes! You can freeze unbaked pinwheels by rolling and slicing them, then placing them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring them to a freezer bag. When ready to bake, you can cook them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.