I swear my family can eat this for breakfast, lunch, or dinner!

Ham and Cheese Pinwheels are a delightful appetizer or snack that combines the savory flavors of ham and cheese with the buttery, flaky goodness of puff pastry. This dish has its roots in French cuisine, where similar pastry-based snacks are popular. It’s a versatile recipe that’s perfect for parties, picnics, or even a casual family gathering. The beauty of these pinwheels lies in their simplicity and the ability to customize them to suit different tastes, making them a favorite among both novice and experienced cooks.

These Ham and Cheese Pinwheels pair wonderfully with a fresh green salad, perhaps with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the pastry. For a more substantial meal, consider serving them alongside a hearty soup, like tomato bisque or creamy potato leek. If you’re hosting a gathering, a platter of assorted pickles and olives can add a nice tangy contrast to the pinwheels.

Advertisement

Ham and Cheese Pinwheels

Servings: 4 to 6 servings

Ingredients

1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
6 slices of deli ham
1 cup shredded cheese (such as cheddar or Swiss)
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 egg, beaten
Flour, for dusting

Directions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Lightly dust your work surface with flour and roll out the puff pastry sheet to smooth any creases.

Spread the Dijon mustard evenly over the pastry sheet.

Layer the ham slices over the mustard, ensuring they cover the entire surface.

Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the ham.

Starting from one edge, carefully roll the pastry into a tight log.

Using a sharp knife, slice the log into 1/2-inch thick pinwheels.

Place the pinwheels on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each.

Brush the tops with the beaten egg to give them a golden finish.

Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the pinwheels are puffed and golden brown.

Variations & Tips

For a vegetarian version, replace the ham with sautéed spinach or roasted red peppers. You can also experiment with different cheeses, such as Gruyère or mozzarella, to change the flavor profile. Adding a sprinkle of herbs like thyme or rosemary can enhance the aroma and taste. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a thin layer of pesto or tapenade for an extra burst of flavor.