Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pinwheels are a delicious and effortless appetizer that’s perfect for any occasion.
With layers of savory ham, melted cheese, and a flaky puff pastry crust, these bite-sized treats are sure to be a crowd favorite.
The easy-to-make pinwheels are brushed with a golden egg wash and can be served warm or at room temperature, making them versatile for parties, gatherings, or even as a simple snack.
Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or looking for a quick and tasty snack, these pinwheels will add a touch of elegance and flavor to any spread.
ingrédients :
One sheet of puff pastry (if frozen, thawed)
Six to eight thinly sliced ham slices.
One cup of shredded cheese, either mozzarella, cheddar, or combination.
One egg for the egg wash
One tablespoon of Dijon mustard (optional; adds flavor).
Half a teaspoon of dried parsley or Italian seasoning (optional, for garnish).
instructions:
Warm up the oven:
Put parchment paper on a baking pan and preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Get the puff pastry ready:
On a lightly floured board, roll out the puff pastry sheet into a rectangle.
Arrange the ingredients in layers:
Drizzle the pastry with a little Dijon mustard, if using.
Evenly distribute the ham slices over the crust.
Evenly distribute the shredded cheese on top of the ham.
Roll the pastry: Tightly roll the puff pastry into a log, beginning at one of the long edges. Gently press to seal the edge.
To chill the roll, put it in the fridge for ten to fifteen minutes. This facilitates slicing.
Cut into pinwheels: Cut the cooled roll into pieces that are 1/2 inch thick using a sharp knife.
Get the pinwheels ready to bake:
Leave room between each pinwheel as you arrange the slices on the baking sheet that has been prepared.
In a small dish, beat the egg. Then, brush the pinwheels’ tops with the egg wash. If preferred, top with parsley or Italian seasoning.
Bake: Bake the pinwheels for 15 to 20 minutes, or until they are puffy and golden brown, in a preheated oven.
Here are some variations, tips, and serving suggestions for your Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pinwheels:
Variations:
Cheese Variations:
Use Swiss cheese or Gruyère for a more savory, nutty flavor.
Cream cheese mixed with herbs could be spread on the pastry before adding the ham and cheese for a creamier texture.
Protein Options:
Swap ham for turkey, chicken, or even roast beef for a different flavor profile.
For a vegetarian option, you can use sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini with cheese for a delicious alternative.
Flavor Boosters:
Add a layer of caramelized onions for extra sweetness.
Spice things up with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or jalapeño slices for a bit of heat.
For extra richness, you could spread a thin layer of cream cheese or pesto over the pastry before adding the ham and cheese.
Herb Variations:
Swap out dried parsley or Italian seasoning for fresh rosemary or thyme for a more aromatic and savory touch.
Sauce:
Serve the pinwheels with a dipping sauce, like ranch dressing, garlic butter, or honey mustard.
Tips:
Rolling the Pastry: Be gentle when rolling the pastry to avoid squeezing out the filling. Keep it tight but not too tight to ensure the pinwheels hold together.
Slicing Pinwheels: Use a sharp knife or even a serrated knife to cut through the chilled pastry more cleanly. This helps avoid squishing the pinwheels.
Egg Wash: If you run out of egg, you can substitute with milk or cream for a golden finish, though it may not be as shiny.
Freezing for Later: You can prepare the pinwheels in advance, freeze them after slicing, and bake them from frozen. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Baking Time: Check the pinwheels around 15 minutes to make sure they don’t overbake. If they’re golden brown and puffed up, they’re done.
Serving Suggestions:
Appetizer Tray: Serve these pinwheels as part of a party platter with an assortment of finger foods like cheese cubes, olives, or fresh fruit.
Finger Food at Parties: Perfect for cocktail parties, tailgates, or holiday gatherings. They’re easy to grab and eat without much mess.
As a Snack: Serve as a quick snack with some crunchy veggies like carrot sticks, celery, or cucumber slices on the side.
Pairing with Drinks: These pinwheels pair well with white wine, sparkling water, or a light beer. For a non-alcoholic option, try pairing with an herbal iced tea.
Side Dish: Serve them alongside a fresh salad or soup, like a creamy tomato soup, for a more complete meal.
To store your Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pinwheels, follow these guidelines to keep them fresh:
Storing Leftovers:
Room Temperature: If you plan to eat them within the day, you can store the pinwheels at room temperature.
Place them in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap to prevent them from drying out. They should stay fresh for about 1-2 days.
Refrigeration: For longer storage, refrigerate the pinwheels. Place them in an airtight container or wrap them in plastic wrap or foil. They’ll stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing:
Before Baking: If you want to prepare the pinwheels ahead of time, freeze them before baking.
Arrange the unbaked pinwheels on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze them until firm. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 1-2 months.
After Baking: If you’ve already baked the pinwheels and want to freeze them, let them cool completely first.
Then, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll stay good for 1-2 months.
Reheating:
From the fridge: Reheat the pinwheels in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes or until heated through.
You can also reheat them in a microwave for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, though they won’t be as crispy.
From the freezer: Reheat frozen pinwheels in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes. If you’re reheating from frozen, there’s no need to thaw them first.
This way, your pinwheels will stay delicious and ready to enjoy whenever you need them!