Hot Ham & Cheese Pinwheels are a fun and tasty treat that’s perfect for snacks, parties, or a quick lunch. These little pinwheels feature soft, flaky dough wrapped around savory ham and gooey melted cheese, creating a warm and satisfying bite every time.
I love making these because they’re so easy to whip up and everyone seems to enjoy them. Plus, you can customize the filling with your favorite type of cheese or add a little mustard or herbs for extra flavor. It’s one of those recipes where you can just have fun and taste-test along the way!
My favorite way to enjoy hot ham and cheese pinwheels is fresh out of the oven, still warm and melty. They’re great served with a simple side salad or a bowl of soup, and they also make a good finger food when you’re hanging out with friends. I always keep a batch ready for when company drops by—these always disappear fast!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Puff Pastry: This is the base that gives the pinwheels their flaky, golden texture. If you can’t find puff pastry, crescent roll dough is a decent substitute, though it won’t be quite as flaky.
Ham: Deli ham works great because it’s already cooked and thinly sliced. You could also use turkey or chicken slices if you want to change things up.
Cheese: Swiss, cheddar, or mozzarella all melt well and add plenty of flavor. If you’re dairy-free, try a plant-based cheese that melts nicely.
Dijon Mustard: It adds a nice tang but is optional. If you don’t have Dijon, a little mayo or a mild mustard can work just fine.
How Can I Roll and Slice the Pinwheels Without Them Falling Apart?
Rolling tightly but gently is key. Here’s how I do it:
- Make sure the puff pastry is well thawed but cold, so it’s pliable.
- Spread your fillings evenly but don’t overload—too much can cause it to break or seep out.
- Roll the pastry slowly from one long edge, keeping it tight but not squeezing the filling out.
- Use a sharp knife and slice in one clean motion to get neat rounds.
- Place pinwheels flat and close together on the baking sheet to help them hold their shape as they bake.
Brushing with egg wash also helps seal edges and gives a lovely golden crust on top.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – I like to line it with parchment paper to keep cleaning easy and prevent sticking.
- Rolling pin – helps flatten the puff pastry evenly so each pinwheel rolls out smoothly.
- Sharp knife or pizza cutter – makes clean, even slices without squishing the pastry.
- Pastry brush – for brushing the egg wash to get a nice golden finish.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap the ham for turkey, chicken, or roast beef to match what you have on hand.
- Try different cheeses like pepper jack or gouda for unique flavor twists.
- Add a spoonful of pesto or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for extra flavor.
- Mix in sautéed spinach or sun-dried tomatoes to add veggie goodness and color.
Hot Ham & Cheese Pinwheels
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Pinwheels:
- 1 sheet frozen puff pastry (thawed)
- 6-8 slices deli ham
- 1 to 1½ cups shredded cheese (such as Swiss, cheddar, or mozzarella)
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard (optional)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley or Italian seasoning
- 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll spend about 10 minutes preparing these delicious pinwheels and 15 to 20 minutes baking them. So, in just around 30 minutes, you can have warm, cheesy snacks ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet:
First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to stop the pinwheels from sticking and for easy cleanup.
2. Roll Out the Puff Pastry:
On a lightly floured surface, roll out your thawed puff pastry sheet into a nice rectangle. This makes it easier to spread the fillings evenly.
3. Add the Filling:
Spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard over the entire pastry if you like a tangy touch. Next, lay the ham slices evenly across the pastry without too much overlap. Sprinkle the shredded cheese on top, then add garlic powder and dried parsley or Italian seasoning for flavor.
4. Roll and Slice:
Carefully roll the pastry up tightly, starting from one long edge, forming a log. Use a sharp knife to slice the log into pinwheels about ¾ to 1 inch thick.
5. Bake the Pinwheels:
Place the pinwheels on your prepared baking sheet with the flat side down, keeping about an inch of space between each. Brush the tops with beaten egg; this will help them turn golden and shiny as they bake. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes until the pastry is beautifully golden and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove from the oven, let your pinwheels cool just a little, then serve warm. These tasty treats are perfect as a snack, appetizer, or even a fun lunch. Enjoy!
Can I Use Refrigerated Puff Pastry Instead of Frozen?
Yes! Refrigerated puff pastry works just fine. Just make sure it’s softened enough to roll out easily but still cold so it holds its shape well.
How Do I Store Leftover Pinwheels?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to get that crispy texture back.
Can I Freeze These Pinwheels?
Absolutely! Freeze the sliced, unbaked pinwheels on a tray until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What Are Some Good Cheese Alternatives?
Swiss, cheddar, or mozzarella all work great, but you can also try gouda, provolone, or pepper jack for a different flavor twist.
