Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pinwheels

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Quick & Easy : Ready in under 30 minutes using store-bought puff pastry—no complicated prep required.
2. Flaky & Cheesy Perfection : The buttery puff pastry pairs beautifully with savory ham and gooey melted cheese.
3. Customizable : Add spices, mustard, pesto, or veggies for extra flair.
4. Perfect for Any Occasion : Great for parties, holidays, game day, or even a quick breakfast.
5. Kid-Friendly : These bite-sized treats are fun to eat and loved by all ages.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Makes 16–20 pinwheels

For the Pinwheels:

• 1 sheet puff pastry , thawed (store-bought or homemade)
• 4 slices deli ham , chopped into small pieces (or shredded cooked ham)

• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or Swiss work well)
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard (optional, for tanginess)
• 1 tsp dried herbs (like thyme, oregano, or Italian seasoning)
• 1 egg , beaten (for egg wash)

Optional Add-Ins:

• Diced bell peppers
• Sautéed spinach
• Crushed red pepper flakes (for a kick)
• Grainy mustard or pesto (spread thinly over the pastry)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) . Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

Step 2: Roll Out the Pastry

1. Roll out the thawed puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface into a rectangle (about 10×14 inches).

Step 3: Add the Fillings

1. Spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard (if using) evenly over the pastry.
2. Sprinkle the chopped ham evenly over the pastry, followed by the shredded cheese.
3. Add optional ingredients like diced veggies, herbs, or spices for extra flavor.

Step 4: Roll and Slice

1. Starting from one long side, tightly roll the pastry into a log. Use a sharp knife to slice the log into 1-inch thick pinwheels.
2. Place the pinwheels cut-side up on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each for expansion.

Step 5: Brush with Egg Wash

1. Lightly brush the tops of the pinwheels with the beaten egg. This will give them a beautiful golden finish.

Step 6: Bake

1. Bake for 15–20 minutes , or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown, and the cheese is bubbly and melted.

Step 7: Serve

1. Let the pinwheels cool for 2–3 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Why This Recipe Works

• Puff Pastry Magic : The buttery, flaky layers of puff pastry create the perfect base for savory fillings.
• Cheese Pull Factor : The melted cheese adds indulgence and ties all the flavors together.
• Versatile Fillings : Customize with your favorite ingredients to suit your taste.

Variations to Try

• Add Mustard or Pesto : Spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard, grainy mustard, or pesto for extra depth of flavor.
• Spice It Up : Sprinkle red pepper flakes or add diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
• Veggie-Packed Version : Mix in sautéed spinach, caramelized onions, or roasted red peppers.
• Breakfast Twist : Add scrambled eggs or crumbled bacon for a hearty morning treat.
• Gluten-Free Option : Use gluten-free puff pastry dough for a GF-friendly version.

Tips for Success

• Thaw Properly : Make sure the puff pastry is fully thawed but still cold when assembling to prevent tearing.
• Don’t Overfill : Spread the fillings evenly but sparingly to avoid oozing during baking.
• Storage : Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for best results.

Serving Suggestions

• Romantic Touch : Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for elegance.
• Brunch Staple : Pair with mimosas, Bloody Marys, or fresh fruit for a complete meal.
• Party Platter : Serve alongside other appetizers like sliders, dips, or veggie skewers for variety.

Final Thoughts

These Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pinwheels are a celebration of flaky, cheesy, savory goodness, offering a snack that feels indulgent yet approachable. With their buttery pastry, gooey filling, and customizable options, they’re a recipe that’s sure to impress whether you’re cooking for a special occasion, a casual snack, or simply craving something satisfying.

Your turn! Have you ever made pinwheels or used puff pastry in creative ways? Share your favorite variations or serving ideas below.