Golden, flaky, and filled with melty cheese and savory ham, these Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pinwheels are the ultimate appetizer or snack for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, planning a picnic, or just want something quick and satisfying, these puff pastry bites are guaranteed to impress.
They’re wonderfully easy to prepare — all you need are a few simple ingredients and about 30 minutes from start to finish. Each pinwheel bakes into a beautifully crisp pastry swirl with a gooey, flavorful center.
Ingredients
- 1 sheet puff pastry (about 250 g), thawed
- 150 g (about 6 slices) ham, thinly sliced
- 1 cup (100 g) shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite blend)
- 1 tbsp mustard (optional, for flavor)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- ½ tsp dried herbs (optional — oregano or thyme work perfectly)
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 200 °C / 400 °F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Puff Pastry
Lightly flour your surface and gently roll out the thawed puff pastry sheet into a smooth rectangle. This helps even out any folds from the packaging.
3. Add the Filling
- If using mustard, spread a thin layer evenly over the pastry.
- Arrange the ham slices in a single layer.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly on top.
- Add a pinch of dried herbs for extra flavor.
4. Roll and Slice
Starting from one long edge, roll the pastry tightly into a log shape.
Using a sharp knife, cut the roll into 1-inch-thick slices — you should get about 12 pinwheels.
5. Assemble and Bake
Place each slice flat on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a bit of space between them.
Brush the tops with beaten egg for a glossy, golden finish.
Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the pinwheels are puffed up and beautifully golden.
6. Cool and Serve
Allow to cool slightly on a wire rack before serving.
Serve warm or at room temperature — they’re delicious either way!
Variations
• Mix Up the Meat:
Try turkey, salami, or crispy bacon instead of ham for a new twist.
• Cheese Options:
Switch cheddar for gouda, pepper jack, Swiss, or feta to play with flavor.
• Vegetarian Version:
Replace ham with sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or roasted red peppers for a meat-free option.
• Add Spice:
Sprinkle paprika, garlic powder, or a pinch of chili flakes over the cheese for an extra kick.
• Breakfast Style:
Add a layer of scrambled eggs and diced cooked bacon for a hearty morning treat.
Tips for Perfect Pinwheels
- Thaw Properly: Always thaw puff pastry in the fridge for several hours or overnight — this keeps the layers crisp and flaky.
- Keep It Cool: If the dough becomes too soft while assembling, chill the log for 10–15 minutes before slicing.
- Even Slices: Use a sharp knife or serrated blade to prevent the pastry from squishing.
- Golden Finish: Don’t skip the egg wash — it gives that irresistible bakery-style shine.
- Serve with Dips: Pair with honey mustard, ranch, or marinara sauce for extra flavor.
Storage and Reheating
To Store:
- Let pinwheels cool completely.
- Store in an airtight container lined with parchment paper.
- Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
To Freeze:
- Freeze baked or unbaked pinwheels in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Once solid, transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.
- Store for up to 2 months.
To Reheat:
Place in a preheated oven at 180 °C / 350 °F for 10–15 minutes until warm and crisp again. Avoid microwaving — it softens the pastry.
Serving Ideas
Serve your Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pinwheels as:
- Party appetizers or finger food
- A lunchbox snack for kids and adults alike
- A quick breakfast treat with coffee
- A savory side for soups or salads
Conclusion
Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pinwheels are proof that simple ingredients can create something extraordinary. Buttery, crisp pastry enveloping melted cheese and savory ham — every bite is pure comfort.
With endless variations and make-ahead options, they’re ideal for busy hosts or spontaneous snack cravings. Bake a batch today and watch them disappear in minutes — these little pinwheels are guaranteed to be the first thing gone at any table! 🧀🥐
