Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pinwheels

 Description

Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pinwheels are golden, flaky, and buttery pastries filled with savory ham and melted cheese, rolled into a swirl and baked until crisp. These are perfect as appetizers, snacks, or even a quick breakfast option. With minimal ingredients and effort, they deliver a bakery-style treat that impresses both kids and adults.

 Ingredients for Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pinwheels

• 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed if frozen)

• 4–6 slices deli ham (thinly sliced)

• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, Swiss, or Gruyère)

• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard (optional, for added flavor)

• 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)

• Pinch of black pepper

‍ Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Prepare puff pastry: Roll out the puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface to smooth edges.

3. Layer filling: Spread Dijon mustard (if using) evenly over the pastry. Lay slices of ham over it, then sprinkle cheese evenly on top.

4. Roll and slice: Roll the pastry tightly into a log. Slice into ½-inch thick pinwheels.

5. Arrange: Place pinwheels flat on the baking sheet. Brush tops with egg wash.

6. Bake for 15–18 minutes or until puffed and golden brown.

7. Serve warm as a snack, appetizer, or breakfast treat.

 Notes

• Use store-bought puff pastry for convenience, but homemade works too.

• Works with many cheese varieties—mix for extra flavor.

• They taste best fresh from the oven but can be reheated.

• Can be prepped ahead, frozen unbaked, and baked straight from frozen.

 Tips

• Slice with a sharp serrated knife to prevent squishing.

• Chill the rolled log for 10 minutes before slicing for neater cuts.

• Add extras like spinach, caramelized onions, or herbs for variation.

• For extra crispiness, bake on a wire rack placed over the baking sheet.

 Servings

• Makes about 12 pinwheels (depending on thickness).

• Serves 4–6 people as a snack or appetizer.

Nutritional Info (per pinwheel, approx.)

• Calories: 110 kcal

• Protein: 5 g

• Carbohydrates: 9 g

• Fat: 6 g

• Fiber: 0.5 g

• Sodium: 250 mg

 Benefits

• Quick & Easy: Requires just a few ingredients.

• Customizable: Can be made with different fillings.

• Kid-Friendly: Fun snack that appeals to picky eaters.

• Party-Perfect: Ideal for gatherings, picnics, or holiday platters.

❓ Q & A

Q1: Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble, slice, and freeze on a tray. Transfer to a bag once frozen. Bake from frozen, adding 5 extra minutes.

Q2: Which cheese melts best?
Cheddar, Swiss, Gruyère, and mozzarella melt beautifully. A combo makes them extra gooey.

Q3: Can I make a vegetarian version?
Yes, replace ham with spinach, roasted peppers, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes.

Q4: How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat in an oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes until crisp again. Avoid microwaving, as it makes them soggy.

Q5: Can I serve these cold?
They’re best warm, but can be eaten at room temperature for picnics or packed lunches.