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Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pinwheels

Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pinwheels

These Easy Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pinwheels are flaky, cheesy, and savory bite-sized snacks that come together quickly using simple pantry ingredients. Perfect for parties, lunchboxes, or a cozy night in, they feature buttery puff pastry rolled with savory ham and melted cheddar cheese, baked to golden perfection. Customizable and beginner-friendly, these pinwheels deliver maximum flavor with minimal effort.

Ingredients

Scale

Base

  • 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed)

Filling

  • 46 slices sliced ham
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Finishing

  • 1 beaten egg (for egg wash)
  • Optional: 1 teaspoon mustard or mixed fresh herbs (thyme, rosemary, chives)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Puff Pastry: Thaw puff pastry sheets according to package instructions. Lightly roll out on a floured surface into a rectangle to ensure even thickness and easier rolling.
  2. Layer Ham and Cheese: Evenly layer slices of ham over the puff pastry sheet. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese generously over the ham, leaving a small border around the edges for sealing.
  3. Roll and Slice: Carefully roll the puff pastry from one long edge into a tight log, keeping the filling in place. With a sharp knife, slice the log into approximately 1-inch pinwheels.
  4. Apply Egg Wash and Bake: Place the pinwheels onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush each pinwheel with beaten egg to achieve a golden, shiny finish. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes or until puffed and golden brown.
  5. Cool and Serve: Allow the pinwheels to cool slightly before serving warm, ensuring the perfect flaky and melty texture.

Notes

  • Keep puff pastry cold before rolling to prevent sticking and make rolling easier.
  • Distribute ham and cheese evenly to prevent uneven cooking or leaking.
  • Use a sharp, serrated knife to get clean pinwheels without squishing the rolled log.
  • Don’t skip the egg wash; it is key for a stunning golden crust.
  • Watch the pinwheels near the end of baking to avoid overbrowning.
  • Optional: Add mustard or fresh herbs inside for added flavor complexity.

Nutrition

Keywords: ham and cheese pinwheels, puff pastry snacks, easy appetizer, party food, cheesy puff pastry