Description
Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pinwheels are a delicious and easy-to-make appetizer or snack. Featuring flaky puff pastry rolled with savory deli ham, sharp shredded cheese, and a hint of Dijon mustard, these golden-baked pinwheels are perfect for parties, gatherings, or a tasty treat any time.
Ingredients
Scale
Pinwheels
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- 8 slices deli ham, thinly sliced
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheese (Swiss, cheddar, Gruyère, or a blend)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
Egg Wash
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon water
- Sesame seeds or poppy seeds for sprinkling (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 400°F (205°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly flour a clean work surface to prevent sticking.
- Roll Out Puff Pastry: Place the thawed puff pastry on the floured surface and gently roll it out into a rectangle if needed to smooth it and ensure even thickness.
- Spread Mustard: Evenly spread 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard over the entire surface of the puff pastry to add a flavorful layer.
- Layer Ham and Cheese: Arrange the thinly sliced deli ham evenly over the mustard-covered pastry, then sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly on top of the ham to ensure every bite is cheesy.
- Roll Up the Pastry: Starting at one of the long edges, roll the pastry tightly into a log, keeping the roll snug as you go to hold all ingredients together.
- Slice Into Pinwheels: Use a sharp knife to slice the log into ½- to ¾-inch rounds, yielding about 18 to 24 pinwheels.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the pinwheels cut-side up on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each to allow for puffing during baking.
- Brush with Egg Wash and Add Seeds: Whisk together the egg and water, then brush this egg wash over the tops of the pinwheels. Sprinkle with sesame seeds or poppy seeds if desired for extra flavor and texture.
- Bake Until Golden: Bake the pinwheels in the preheated oven for 15 to 18 minutes until they are puffed up and golden brown. Remove from the oven and serve warm.
Notes
- Ensure puff pastry is thoroughly thawed but still cold for easier handling and best puff.
- You can customize the cheese blend to your preference—for sharper flavor, use aged cheddar or Gruyère.
- Pinwheels can be prepared ahead and baked just before serving for convenience.
- Substitute Dijon mustard with whole grain mustard for extra texture.
- For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free puff pastry if available.
Keywords: ham and cheese pinwheels, puff pastry appetizers, party snacks, easy finger foods, baked pinwheels