Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pinwheels Recipe
Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pinwheels are a delicious and easy-to-make appetizer or snack featuring golden, flaky puff pastry filled with savory ham and melted cheese. Perfect for parties, gatherings, or quick snacks, these pinwheels come together with just a few ingredients and bake to a crispy, buttery perfection. Customizable with optional mustard, herbs, or alternative fillings, they make an irresistible finger food that’s sure to please any crowd.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 pinwheels 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Western
Ingredients
Scale
Puff Pastry
- 1 sheet (about 250 g), thawed
Filling
- 150 g (6 slices) thinly sliced ham
- 1 cup (100 g) shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your choice)
- 1 tablespoon mustard (optional)
- ½ teaspoon dried herbs (oregano or thyme, optional)
For Finishing
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Prepare the Puff Pastry: Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Roll out the thawed puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface into a rectangular shape if it’s not already.
- Add the Filling: Spread a thin layer of mustard evenly over the puff pastry, if using. Layer the thinly sliced ham evenly on top of the mustard. Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the ham, then sprinkle dried herbs over the cheese if desired.
- Roll and Slice: Roll the pastry tightly from one long edge to the other to form a log. Using a sharp knife, slice the log into 12 equal pieces.
- Assemble and Bake: Place the pinwheels flat-side down on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Brush the tops with the beaten egg to achieve a golden finish. Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown.
- Serve: Remove the pinwheels from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. They can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- Use cold but pliable puff pastry for best puff and texture.
- Customize fillings with options like spinach, caramelized onions, or sun-dried tomatoes for added flavor.
- Chill the rolled pastry log for 10 minutes before slicing to keep pinwheels neat and uniform.
- Rotate the baking sheet halfway through baking to ensure even browning.
- Reheat leftovers gently in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 5-7 minutes to retain crispiness.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze uncooked pinwheels for up to 1 month.
Keywords: ham and cheese pinwheels, puff pastry appetizers, easy party snacks, baked ham cheese pastry, savory puff pastry
