Ham and Cheese Pinwheels are a tasty snack that everyone loves! Soft tortillas are filled with yummy ham and melty cheese, then rolled up and sliced into fun bite-sized pieces.
These pinwheels are perfect for parties or a quick lunch. I love making them with my kids—they get to help with the rolling, and it’s always a hit at family gatherings!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Puff Pastry: This is the star of the show! If you can’t find frozen puff pastry, you can use crescent roll dough as an alternative. Both will create a fun, flaky texture. Just keep an eye on cooking time as they may differ.
Deli Ham: I use smoked or honey ham for more flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey or chicken slices work well too! Don’t forget you can also go meatless and use roasted veggies for a tasty veggie pinwheel.
Cheese: Cheddar and mozzarella are classic choices, but feel free to experiment! Pepper jack adds a little spice, while gouda brings a distinct flavor. Lactose-intolerant folks can opt for dairy-free cheese products available in most stores.
Dijon Mustard or Cream Cheese: These spreads add depth of flavor. If you don’t like Dijon, try ranch dressing or even a spicy aioli for a fun twist. Cream cheese is great for adding creaminess – it can also be flavored with herbs!
How Can I Get the Perfect Roll on My Pinwheels?
Rolling the pinwheels tightly is important for that delightful swirl effect. If you struggle with this, here’s how to make it easier:
- Make sure your puff pastry is thawed and slightly chilled. This helps it stay firm while rolling.
- Start rolling from one end of the pastry, keeping the filling close to the edge to avoid spills.
- As you roll, press gently to keep it tight but not squished. This creates a nice compact roll.
When cutting, use a sharp knife and don’t press too hard—let the knife do the work for clean slices!
Ham And Cheese Pinwheels
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed
- 6-8 slices of deli ham
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a combination)
For Flavor:
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard or cream cheese (optional, for spread)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley or chives, finely chopped (optional)
For The Finish:
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious snack takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 15-20 minutes to bake, making a total of about 30-35 minutes. Perfect for a quick appetizer or snack anytime!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your pinwheels bake up nice and crispy. Don’t forget to line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy clean-up!
2. Prepare the Pastry:
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the thawed puff pastry sheet into a rectangle, roughly 10 x 12 inches. Make sure it’s nice and even so the pinwheels cook uniformly.
3. Add the Spread:
If you’d like, spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard or cream cheese evenly across the pastry. This adds a flavorful kick and helps hold everything together.
4. Layer the Fillings:
Carefully layer the slices of ham evenly across the pastry. Then, sprinkle your shredded cheese on top. If you’re using herbs, now is a great time to add those too!
5. Roll It Up:
Starting from one short end, gently roll the pastry into a tight log. It’s important to keep it firm but not too forceful, which could squish the filling out!
6. Slice the Pinwheels:
Using a sharp knife, slice the log into rounds about ¾-inch thick. Make sure not to press too hard to keep those fluffy layers intact!
7. Arrange and Brush:
Place the pinwheels cut side up on your prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart. Brush the tops lightly with the beaten egg to get that beautiful golden color when they bake.
8. Bake Until Perfect:
Pop them in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the pinwheels are puffed, golden brown, and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
9. Cool and Serve:
Once out of the oven, let the pinwheels cool for a few minutes. Serve them warm and enjoy every cheesy, delicious bite!
These ham and cheese pinwheels are perfect for parties or just a cozy night in, and I’m sure they’ll be a hit!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While cheddar and mozzarella are classic choices, you can experiment with other cheeses like gouda, pepper jack, or even a dairy-free cheese if you’re looking for alternatives.
How Can I Make These Pinwheels Ahead of Time?
You can assemble the pinwheels ahead of time and refrigerate them for up to a day before baking. Just cover them tightly with plastic wrap and bake when you’re ready. If you prefer, you can also freeze the rolled pinwheels for up to a month—just add a few extra minutes to the baking time when cooking from frozen!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes to crisp them up again.
Can I Use Tortillas Instead of Puff Pastry?
Yes! While the texture will be different, you can use flour or corn tortillas to create a similar pinwheel effect. Just follow the same layering and rolling method, and bake at a lower temperature of around 375°F for about 10-12 minutes until they’re warm and slightly crispy.
