Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pinwheels are a delightful, savory snack that combines the flaky, buttery goodness of puff pastry with the classic combination of ham and cheese. They’re perfect for parties, appetizers, or even a quick and easy snack. These pinwheels are easy to make and come together quickly, making them a great option when you need something both tasty and impressive.
Here’s how you can make them:
Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pinwheels
Ingredients:
- 1 sheet puff pastry (store-bought or homemade, thawed if frozen)
- 1/2 lb (225g) sliced ham (thinly sliced)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (Swiss, cheddar, or a combination of both)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard or yellow mustard (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley or chives, finely chopped (optional, for garnish)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
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Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
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Prepare the Puff Pastry:
- Roll out the puff pastry sheet on a clean surface. If it’s too large, you can trim it to fit your baking sheet, but typically a standard size puff pastry sheet works well for this recipe.
- If you’re using mustard, spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard (or your preferred mustard) evenly over the entire surface of the pastry, leaving a small border around the edges.
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Layer the Ham and Cheese:
- Lay the slices of ham evenly over the puff pastry, covering it from edge to edge.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the ham. If you like your pinwheels extra cheesy, feel free to add a little more cheese on top.
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Roll Up the Pastry:
- Carefully roll the puff pastry up from one edge to the other, creating a log or cylinder. Try to roll it tightly so the pinwheels hold their shape when cut.
- Once rolled, pinch the seam to seal it, and then place the rolled log in the refrigerator for about 15-20 minutes to firm up. (This step makes slicing easier and helps the pinwheels hold their shape while baking.)
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Slice the Pinwheels:
- After chilling, take the rolled pastry out of the refrigerator and use a sharp knife to slice it into 1-inch wide pinwheels.
- Arrange the pinwheels on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each one to allow for puffing.
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Brush with Egg Wash:
- In a small bowl, beat the egg with a tablespoon of water to create an egg wash.
- Brush the top of each pinwheel with the egg wash for a beautiful golden-brown finish.
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Bake:
- Bake the pinwheels in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the pastry is puffed up and golden brown, and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
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Serve:
- Remove from the oven and let the pinwheels cool for a couple of minutes before serving.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or chives for an added touch of flavor and color.
Serving Suggestions:
- These Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pinwheels are fantastic on their own, but you can also serve them with a side of mustard or a dipping sauce of your choice.
- They pair wonderfully with a fresh salad for a light meal or can be served as appetizers for parties and gatherings.
Tips for Perfect Ham and Cheese Pinwheels:
- Variety of Cheeses: You can experiment with different cheeses for added flavor. Gruyère, cheddar, or even a bit of mozzarella would all work wonderfully.
- Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the pinwheels in advance and freeze the rolled-up log (before slicing). When you’re ready to bake, slice them and bake directly from frozen—just add an extra couple of minutes to the baking time.
- Other Fillings: Feel free to mix it up! You can add sliced tomatoes, spinach, or even sautéed mushrooms for an extra flavor boost.
Why You’ll Love These Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pinwheels:
- Flaky & Buttery: The puff pastry gives these pinwheels their light, flaky texture, while the melted cheese and savory ham make them incredibly satisfying.
- Versatile: Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or light lunch, they’re great for any occasion—parties, picnics, or even a casual get-together.
- Quick & Easy: These pinwheels come together quickly and require minimal effort, yet they look and taste impressive.
These Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pinwheels are sure to be a crowd favorite! The combination of tender ham, melted cheese, and crisp, flaky pastry makes every bite irresistible. Enjoy!