Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I pulled these golden brown Ham and Cheese Pinwheels from the oven, I could hardly believe how simple and gourmet they looked. Just imagine flaky puff pastry filled with savory deli ham, gooey cheese, and a hint of zesty Dijon mustard—this appetizer is not only quick to prepare but also guaranteed to impress every guest at your gathering. In under an hour, you can create a dish that combines comfort and elegance, making them the perfect addition to parties or casual family dinners. Plus, these delightful bites are also freezer-friendly, meaning you can enjoy the magic of homemade treats anytime you crave them. Curious to see how to roll up these tasty wonders? Let’s get cooking! What’s the secret to these pinwheels? Quick prep makes these ham and cheese pinwheels an ideal choice for unexpected guests or busy weeknights. Flavorful combinations of zesty mustard, deli ham, and rich cheese create a savory explosion that will delight any palate. Versatile options allow you to easily swap ingredients, whether it’s trying turkey or adding veggies for a fresh twist. Perfect for entertaining, these bite-sized morsels are bound to be the star of your appetizer spread, alongside other crowd-pleasers like Crock Pot Cheeseburger Soup or Blueberry Crisp Cheesecake. Freezer-friendly for those times when you want gourmet food at a moment’s notice, these pinwheels are a delightful fusion of comfort and elegance! Ham and Cheese Pinwheels Ingredients For the Pastry • Puff Pastry – This flaky base needs to be fully thawed to achieve the perfect texture; feel free to use homemade pastry if you’re up for it! For the Filling • Dijon Mustard – Adds a zesty kick that complements the other flavors beautifully; yellow or spicy brown mustard can be used as alternatives. • Deli Ham – Offers a savory punch; for a different flavor, consider using turkey or even a plant-based substitute. • Grated Gruyère or Sharp Cheddar Cheese – Brings rich creaminess; you can switch it up with mozzarella or spicy pepper jack for an extra kick. For Garnishing • Fresh Parsley – Provides a vibrant touch of color and freshness; chives can be a lovely substitute or you can skip it altogether if you prefer! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Ham and Cheese Pinwheels Step 1: Prepare the Puff Pastry Begin by rolling out thawed puff pastry on a lightly floured surface until it forms a rectangle measuring about 10×12 inches. The pastry should be pliable and smooth, ensuring it will easily roll without cracking. This forms the delicious base for your ham and cheese pinwheels, so take your time to get the right dimensions. Step 2: Spread the Mustard Evenly spread 1 ½ tablespoons of Dijon mustard over the prepared pastry, leaving a ½-inch border around the edges. The mustard adds a zesty flavor that complements the savory ham beautifully. Make sure to cover the surface generously for that burst of flavor in each bite of your ham and cheese pinwheels. Step 3: Layer the Fillings Next, carefully layer 6 slices of deli ham and 1 cup of grated cheese evenly over the mustard-coated pastry. Aim for uniform coverage to ensure every pinwheel is full of savory goodness. As the cheese melts during baking, it will create a gooey interior that’s simply irresistible, making your pinwheels a true delight. Step 4: Roll the Pastry Starting from the long edge, roll the pastry tightly into a log, ensuring the filling stays inside. Use a gentle but firm pressure to create a compact roll without squeezing too hard, which could push out the filling. Once rolled, trim the edges for a neat finish and wrap the log in plastic wrap, then chill in the refrigerator for 20 minutes to firm up. Step 5: Repeat with Second Pastry Sheet Repeat the process with the second sheet of puff pastry, applying the remaining Dijon mustard, ham, and cheese. This ensures you have a delicious batch of ham and cheese pinwheels ready for baking. After rolling and trimming, wrap it in plastic and chill for another 20 minutes to maintain the structure while you preheat the oven. Step 6: Preheat the Oven While the pinwheel logs chill, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature will help achieve that perfect golden-brown finish we all love. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent the pinwheels from sticking and ensure easy cleanup after you bake these delicious treats. Step 7: Cut the Pinwheels Remove one log from the fridge and, using a sharp knife, slice it into ½-inch thick rounds. Lay the cut pinwheels cut-side up on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 1 inch apart. This spacing allows the ham and cheese pinwheels to bake evenly and expand into delightful golden puffs without overcrowding. Step 8: Bake to Golden Perfection Bake the ham and cheese pinwheels in the preheated oven for about 18 minutes, or until they are puffed and a glorious golden brown. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes to catch that perfect color. As they bake, your kitchen will be filled with amazing aromas that will surely excite your guests. Step 9: Garnish and Serve Once baked, remove the pinwheels from the oven and let them cool slightly. For a fresh touch, garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Then, serve these delightful ham and cheese pinwheels warm, enjoying their flaky exterior and gooey inside. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy family dinner, they’re sure to be a hit! What to Serve with Gourmet Ham and Cheese Pinwheels Elevate your gathering with these delightful pairings that harmonize beautifully with the warmth of flaky, cheesy goodness. Crispy Green Salad: A refreshing salad filled with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the pinwheels. The crispiness adds texture, while the acidity cuts through the creaminess, making each bite divine. Sweet and Spicy Mustard Dip: This exciting dip adds a sweet kick to your pinwheels and complements the zesty Dijon. A quick blend of honey and Dijon mustard will enhance those flavors wonderfully; guests will love dipping! Roasted Vegetables: Serve a medley of roasted bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots for a splash of vibrant color and natural sweetness. Their slight char adds a depth of flavor that beautifully contrasts with the savory pinwheels. Chilled White Wine: A glass of chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio makes an excellent companion for the ham and cheese pinwheels. Their crisp acidity refreshes the palate between bites, enhancing the overall experience. Mini Quiches: For a delightful brunch twist, serve small quiches alongside the pinwheels. The variety of flavors from spinach, cheese, and ham provides a perfect progression to your spread while keeping the comfort theme. Fruit Skewers: Brighten up your appetizer table with fruit skewers featuring melons, grapes, and strawberries. Their natural sweetness and juiciness offer a light contrast to the rich pinwheels, creating a balanced and appealing plate. Classic Potato Chips: For a nostalgic touch, salty, crispy potato chips complement the soft, savory pinwheels perfectly. Their crunch provides a satisfying texture contrast that everyone will enjoy. Chocolate Fondue: If you’re looking to add a sweet finish to your gathering, a chocolate fondue can double as a dessert option alongside your appetizer selection. Dip strawberries or marshmallows after enjoying the savory pinwheels for a delightful end note. Ham and Cheese Pinwheels Variations Feel free to let your creativity shine with these delightful twists on ham and cheese pinwheels! Turkey Swap: Replace deli ham with turkey for a leaner option that maintains the savory flavor signature. The result is a deliciously light yet hearty treat that everyone will love. Spicy Cheese: Switch out Gruyère or cheddar for pepper jack to add a zesty kick. This spicy version will keep your guests on their toes with its delightful heat! Veggie Boost: Incorporate sautéed spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the filling for extra nutrition and flavor. These vegetables not only add color but also bring a lovely freshness to each bite. Mustard Variation: Try using whole grain mustard or honey mustard instead of Dijon for a sweeter taste. This small change makes a big impact—perfect for those who enjoy a hint of sweetness in their appetizers. Herbed Cream Cheese: Spread a layer of herbed cream cheese underneath the ham for added creaminess. The herbs create a fragrant hint that elevates each pinwheel to gourmet status. Sweet Surprise: Add thin slices of apple or pear for a surprising sweetness that complements the savory layers. This delightful twist provides a wonderful contrast that will have your taste buds dancing! Cheesy Surprise: Experiment by mixing in crumbled feta or blue cheese with the grated cheese for a tangy depth. These bold cheeses can entirely transform the pinwheels into a gourmet delight, reminiscent of a fancy party dish. Crunchy Topping: Sprinkle crushed nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, on top before baking for an added crunch. These nutty bits will not only enhance the texture but also add a delightful surprise in every bite. Embrace these tasty ideas to turn your ham and cheese pinwheels into a star dish at your next gathering! And, while you enjoy creating variations, don’t forget to pair them with some other favorites like Strawberry Cheesecake Sandwiches for a delightful spread! How to Store and Freeze Ham and Cheese Pinwheels Fridge: Store leftover ham and cheese pinwheels in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and ready for your next snack attack! Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the assembled pinwheels before baking. Wrap each log tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil, and they can last for up to 2 months. Baking from Frozen: When ready to enjoy, bake the frozen pinwheels directly from the freezer, adding an extra 3-5 minutes to the cooking time for that perfect golden finish. Reheating: If you have leftover baked pinwheels, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This restores their flaky texture and melty goodness! Make Ahead Options These delicious Ham and Cheese Pinwheels are perfect for meal prep, saving you time on busy days! You can assemble them up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the steps to prepare the filling, roll them up, and wrap each log tightly in plastic wrap before refrigerating. To maintain their quality, ensure the puff pastry is well-sealed to prevent drying out. When you’re ready to bake, simply slice the chilled logs into rounds and place them on a baking sheet. Preheat your oven and bake until golden brown, resulting in fresh, flaky pinwheels that taste just as delicious as if you made them on the spot! Expert Tips for Ham and Cheese Pinwheels Thaw Properly: Ensure that your puff pastry is completely thawed before rolling. This is crucial for achieving that irresistible flakiness in your ham and cheese pinwheels. Even Spacing: When placing the pinwheels on the baking sheet, make sure they are spaced 1 inch apart. This helps them puff up beautifully without sticking together. Chill Before Baking: Don’t skip the chilling step after rolling the pastry. Chilling helps maintain the shape and ensures a better texture once baked. Watch the Oven: Keep a close eye on the pinwheels during the last few minutes of baking. They can go from perfectly golden to overdone very quickly. Make Ahead Option: Feel free to assemble the pinwheels a day in advance and store in the fridge until ready to bake. Freshly baked ham and cheese pinwheels will impress your guests without last-minute stress. Ham and Cheese Pinwheels Recipe FAQs How do I choose the best puff pastry? Absolutely! When selecting puff pastry, look for sheets that are fully thawed and pliable, without any tears or dry edges. A high-quality brand will deliver that perfect flaky texture. If you want a more homemade feel, you can even try making your own pastry from scratch! What is the best way to store leftovers? After enjoying these delightful ham and cheese pinwheels, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh and tasty for up to 3 days. Just make sure to let them cool completely before sealing them up to prevent sogginess! Can I freeze ham and cheese pinwheels? Yes, you can freeze them! I recommend wrapping each assembled log tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil, to protect them from freezer burn. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to bake, simply preheat the oven and bake straight from frozen; just add an extra 3 to 5 minutes to the cooking time for that perfect golden finish. What should I do if my pinwheels are not baking evenly? Very common! If your pinwheels aren’t baking evenly, make sure you’re allowing enough space between them on the baking sheet—about 1 inch apart is ideal. This spacing allows for optimal puffing and even cooking. Additionally, rotating the baking sheets halfway through baking can help ensure even heat distribution. Are there any dietary considerations? Great question! These ham and cheese pinwheels are versatile; for those with dietary restrictions, you can easily substitute the deli ham with turkey or a plant-based alternative. If you’re concerned about cheese, consider using lactose-free varieties or omitting the cheese altogether for a lighter option! What’s the best way to reheat leftover pinwheels? To restore the pinwheels to their crispy glory, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the leftover pinwheels on a baking sheet. Heat them for about 10 minutes or until they’re warmed through. This method keeps their flaky texture intact and makes them just as delicious as when they were first baked! Irresistible Ham and Cheese Pinwheels for Easy Entertaining No ratings yet Easy to make Ham and Cheese Pinwheels that are perfect for entertaining and quick gatherings. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 18 minutes minsChilling Time 40 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 28 minutes mins Servings: 12 pinwheelsCourse: AppetizersCuisine: AmericanCalories: 150 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Pastry1 package Puff Pastry Fully thawed before use.For the Filling1.5 tablespoons Dijon Mustard Can substitute with yellow or spicy brown mustard.6 slices Deli Ham Can substitute with turkey or plant-based alternatives.1 cup Grated Gruyère or Sharp Cheddar Cheese Mozzarella or spicy pepper jack can be used.For Garnishing1 tablespoon Fresh Parsley Chives can be a substitute or skip it altogether. Equipment OvenBaking SheetsParchment PaperPlastic Wrapsharp knife Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Ham and Cheese PinwheelsPrepare the Puff Pastry by rolling out thawed puff pastry on a lightly floured surface until it forms a rectangle measuring about 10x12 inches.Spread the Mustard evenly over the prepared pastry, leaving a ½-inch border around the edges.Layer the Fillings by adding 6 slices of deli ham and 1 cup of grated cheese evenly over the mustard-coated pastry.Roll the Pastry tightly into a log from the long edge, ensuring the filling stays inside. Wrap in plastic wrap and chill for 20 minutes.Repeat with the second sheet of puff pastry, then wrap it in plastic and chill for another 20 minutes.Preheat the Oven to 375°F (190°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.Cut the Pinwheels into ½-inch thick rounds and lay them cut-side up on the prepared baking sheets.Bake the pinwheels for about 18 minutes, or until puffed and golden brown.Garnish with chopped parsley if desired, then serve warm. Nutrition Serving: 1pinwheelCalories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 6gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 320mgPotassium: 50mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 2IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 6mgIron: 4mg NotesEnsure puff pastry is fully thawed for best results. Pinwheels can be assembled in advance and refrigerated until ready to bake. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
