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Easy Ham and Cheese Pinwheels

easy ham and cheese pinwheels - featured image

Quick and delicious ham and cheese pinwheels made with flaky puff pastry, perfect for snacks or casual gatherings. Ready in about 20 minutes, these savory bites are a crowd-pleaser for all ages.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 sheets puff pastry, thawed
  • 8 oz (225 g) thinly sliced ham
  • 8 oz (225 g) shredded or thinly sliced cheese (sharp cheddar or Swiss recommended)
  • 2 tbsp (30 g) softened butter
  • 1 tbsp (15 ml) Dijon mustard (optional)
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tbsp chopped fresh herbs (parsley or chives, optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
  2. If frozen, thaw puff pastry sheets according to package instructions. Lightly dust your work surface with flour and gently roll each sheet to smooth out creases, about 12 x 12 inches.
  3. Spread softened butter evenly over each pastry sheet.
  4. Optional: Spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard over the butter.
  5. Layer ham slices evenly over the pastry, covering the surface but not piling too thickly.
  6. Add shredded or thinly sliced cheese evenly on top of the ham.
  7. Season lightly with freshly ground black pepper and sprinkle chopped herbs if using.
  8. Roll up the pastry tightly but gently from one edge into a log about 12 inches long.
  9. Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, slice the log into 12 to 15 pinwheels, about 1 inch thick each.
  10. Place pinwheels cut-side up on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each.
  11. Bake for 15-18 minutes until golden and flaky with bubbling cheese. Start checking at 12 minutes if your oven runs hot.
  12. Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Keep puff pastry cold until ready to use to maintain flakiness. Spread butter and mustard in thin, even layers to avoid sogginess. Roll pastry tightly but gently to prevent filling from spilling. Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to slice pinwheels evenly. Tent with foil if edges brown too quickly. Pinwheels can be assembled ahead and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking. For reheating, avoid microwaving to keep crispness; reheat in oven instead.

Nutrition

Keywords: ham and cheese pinwheels, quick snacks, puff pastry snacks, easy appetizers, party food, kid-friendly snacks