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Hot Ham and Cheese Pinwheels Recipe

4.9 from 109 reviews

These Hot Ham and Cheese Pinwheels are a delicious, flaky appetizer perfect for any gathering. Featuring a buttery puff pastry rolled with savory ham, sharp cheddar, and Swiss cheeses, seasoned with garlic, Italian herbs, and fresh chives, these pinwheels bake up golden and bubbly, making a delightful snack or party treat.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Pinwheels:

  • 1 sheet puff pastry (from a 17.3-ounce package), thawed
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • 8 ounces thin-sliced premium ham
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
  • 2 tablespoons fresh chives, finely chopped (plus more for garnish)
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 tablespoon butter, melted

For the Egg Wash:

  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tablespoon water
  • Pinch of salt
  • Poppy seeds or everything bagel seasoning for topping (optional)

Instructions

  1. Thaw and Roll Pastry: Thaw the puff pastry according to package directions until pliable but still cold, then roll it out on a lightly floured surface to approximately 10×12 inches for an even base.
  2. Prepare Pastry Base: Brush the pastry evenly with melted butter, leaving a ½-inch border along one long edge to help seal the roll later.
  3. Spread Mustard: Apply a thin layer of Dijon mustard over the buttered surface for added flavor.
  4. Layer Ham and Cheese: Evenly layer the thin-sliced ham over the pastry, slightly overlapping slices, then sprinkle shredded cheddar and Swiss cheeses on top.
  5. Add Seasonings and Herbs: Sprinkle garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and the chopped chives uniformly over the cheese to enhance the flavor profile.
  6. Roll and Seal: Starting from the long edge opposite the unbuttered border, roll the pastry tightly into a log. Brush the clean border edge with water, then seal the roll and place it seam-side down for stability.
  7. Chill the Roll: Wrap the rolled pastry tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes or up to 24 hours to firm up for easier slicing.
  8. Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
  9. Slice Pinwheels: Using a serrated knife, cut the chilled roll into ½-inch thick rounds carefully to maintain shape.
  10. Arrange and Apply Egg Wash: Place the pinwheels cut-side up on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them 1 inch apart. Beat the egg with water and salt, then brush this egg wash over the tops and sides of the pinwheels to create a glossy finish.
  11. Add Optional Toppings: If desired, sprinkle poppy seeds or everything bagel seasoning on top for extra texture and flavor.
  12. Bake to Golden Perfection: Bake the pinwheels in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes until they are puffed, golden brown, and cooked through.
  13. Cool and Garnish: Allow the pinwheels to cool on the baking sheet for 3-5 minutes before transferring them to a serving platter. Garnish with additional fresh chives and serve warm for best taste.

Notes

  • Ensure the puff pastry is cold but pliable before rolling to prevent tearing.
  • Use a sharp serrated knife to slice the roll evenly and prevent squashing the layers.
  • You can prepare the pinwheel roll up to 24 hours in advance and bake fresh when ready.
  • Substitute ham with turkey or a vegetarian alternative for variety.
  • Serve warm for the best texture and flavor experience.

Keywords: ham and cheese pinwheels, puff pastry appetizers, party snacks, savory pinwheels, baked snacks, cheesy appetizers