Ham and cheese puff pastry pinwheels are a quick and delicious snack or appetizer that’s perfect for parties, picnics, or a light lunch. This recipe combines flaky puff pastry, savory ham, and gooey melted cheese into bite-sized swirls of delight. Here’s a detailed step-by-step guide to making these treats.
Ingredients:
For 12-15 pinwheels:
- 1 sheet of puff pastry (thawed if frozen)
- 6-8 slices of ham (thinly sliced)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Gruyère, or mozzarella)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional, for added flavor)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon milk or water (to thin the egg wash)
- Optional: Fresh herbs (like parsley or chives), finely chopped, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Prepare the puff pastry:
- Remove the puff pastry from the refrigerator or freezer and let it thaw if necessary.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pastry to smooth out creases and slightly enlarge it. Aim for a rectangle approximately 10 x 12 inches.
2. Spread the base layer:
- If using Dijon mustard, spread a thin layer evenly across the puff pastry, leaving about ½ inch of space along the edges.
3. Add the ham and cheese:
- Lay the slices of ham evenly over the puff pastry, ensuring they overlap slightly to cover the surface.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the ham. If you’re adding herbs, sprinkle them at this stage.
4. Roll the pastry:
- Starting from one of the longer edges, carefully roll the pastry into a tight log. Ensure the roll is even and the edges are sealed.
5. Chill the roll:
- Wrap the rolled pastry log in plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 20-30 minutes. This step firms up the pastry, making it easier to slice.
6. Preheat the oven:
- While the pastry is chilling, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
7. Slice the pinwheels:
- Remove the pastry log from the fridge and unwrap it.
- Using a sharp knife, slice the log into ½-inch thick rounds. Place the rounds flat on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each one for expansion.
8. Apply the egg wash:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and milk or water.
- Brush the egg wash lightly over the tops and sides of each pinwheel. This helps achieve a golden, glossy finish.
9. Bake the pinwheels:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the pinwheels are puffed and golden brown.
10. Serve warm:
- Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving. These pinwheels are best enjoyed warm but can also be served at room temperature.
Tips for Success:
- Variations: Feel free to add other ingredients like spinach, caramelized onions, or sliced mushrooms for extra flavor.
- Make-ahead option: You can prepare the pastry log ahead of time and store it in the fridge or freezer. When ready to bake, slice and proceed as directed.
- Cheese options: Experiment with different types of cheese for varied flavors, such as Parmesan, Gouda, or a spicy pepper jack.
- Serving suggestion: Pair these pinwheels with a dipping sauce, like honey mustard or marinara, for an extra touch.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Easy to Make: With store-bought puff pastry, this recipe is simple and quick.
- Versatile: Perfect for snacks, appetizers, or even a fun lunchbox treat.
- Crowd-Pleaser: These pinwheels are guaranteed to be a hit at any gathering.
Enjoy making and savoring these delightful ham and cheese puff pastry pinwheels—simple, delicious, and always a favorite!
