These ham and cheese pinwheels are fun, cheesy bites loaded with flavor! With a flaky dough wrapping around savory ham and gooey cheese, they’re perfect for any snack time.
Making these pinwheels always feels like turning into a chef! I love how easy they are to whip up, and they vanish quickly at parties—just like magic! 🪄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Puff Pastry: This flaky dough is key to the light texture of the pinwheels. If you don’t have puff pastry, you can use crescent roll dough for a different taste, though it will be less flaky.
Deli Ham: Any kind of sliced ham works well. Feel free to swap with turkey, roast beef, or even a vegetarian option like spinach and cheese for a meatless version.
Cheeses: I love using mozzarella for its meltiness and Parmesan for a sharp flavor. You can substitute with any meltable cheese like Cheddar or Gouda if preferred.
Seasonings: The Italian seasoning adds a great flavor punch. You can customize this with your favorite herbs or even add a bit of red pepper flakes for some heat!
How Do I Roll and Slice the Pinwheels Properly?
Rolling the pinwheels tightly is crucial to getting those beautiful swirls. Here’s how to do it:
- After layering your ham and cheese, start from the longer edge of the rectangle.
- Use gentle pressure as you roll to keep the filling intact.
- Once you reach the edge, pinch it closed to seal the roll.
- For slicing, a sharp knife helps make clean cuts. Try to slice quickly to avoid squishing your pinwheels!
These steps make a big difference in how the pinwheels hold together and look when baked. Enjoy mingling those flavors in every bite!
How to Make Savory Ham and Cheese Pinwheels
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- 6 slices deli ham
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 30 minutes total. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and rolling up the pinwheels, and then they’ll bake for another 15-20 minutes until golden and delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first—set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will help the pinwheels bake evenly and make cleanup a breeze!
2. Prepare the Puff Pastry:
On a clean, lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry into a rectangle about 12×10 inches. This is where the magic begins!
3. Layer the Filling:
Next, lay the slices of deli ham evenly over the puff pastry, leaving a small border around the edges. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and then the grated Parmesan cheese over the ham. To add flavor, sprinkle the dried Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and some freshly ground black pepper over the cheese.
4. Roll It Up:
Now, it’s time to roll! Starting from one of the longer edges, gently roll the puff pastry up tightly to form a log. It’s important to keep it snug so the filling doesn’t fall out.
5. Slice the Pinwheels:
Take a sharp knife and slice the rolled pastry into about 1-inch thick pinwheels. Try to make clean cuts to ensure they hold their shape in the oven.
6. Arrange on the Baking Sheet:
Place the pinwheels cut side up on your lined baking sheet, spacing them about an inch apart. This gives them room to puff up while baking!
7. Egg Wash for Golden Color:
Brush the tops of each pinwheel with the beaten egg. This step will give you that lovely golden brown finish I know you’ll love!
8. Bake and Enjoy:
Put the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes until the pastry is golden and puffed, and the cheese is all melty and bubbly. Keep an eye on them—oven temperatures can vary!
9. Final Touches:
Once they’re done, remove the pinwheels from the oven and sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley on top if you’d like. Let them cool for a few minutes before diving in!
And there you have it—savory ham and cheese pinwheels! Perfect for snacks, appetizers, or anytime you need a cheesy treat!
Can I Use Other Types of Meat in These Pinwheels?
Absolutely! You can substitute deli ham with turkey, roast beef, or even cooked bacon for a different twist. Feel free to get creative with your favorite meats!
What If I Don’t Have Puff Pastry?
No worries! You can use crescent roll dough as an alternative. It will give a slightly different texture but still taste delicious. Just follow the same layering and rolling steps!
Can I Make These Pinwheels Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the pinwheels and store them in the fridge, covered, for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they’re going into the oven cold.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the microwave for a short burst or place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to re-crisp the pastry.
