Puff Pastry Pinwheels with Ham and Cheese
When it comes to quick and crowd-pleasing appetizers, these Puff Pastry Pinwheels with Ham and Cheese are always at the top of my list. They’re buttery, flaky, and filled with savory layers of ham and melty cheese—perfect for parties, brunches, or even a fun snack for the kids.
My family loves how versatile these pinwheels are, and I love how easy they are to make! Whether served warm out of the oven or prepared ahead of time for gatherings, they always disappear fast. Once you try these, you’ll keep coming back to this recipe again and again.
Questions I Often Get Asked About This Recipe
Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can prepare the pinwheels and refrigerate them, unbaked, for up to 24 hours. Just bake them fresh before serving.
Q: Can I freeze these?
A: Yes, you can freeze them either before or after baking. If freezing before baking, let them thaw slightly before placing in the oven. If freezing after baking, just reheat in the oven until warm.
Q: What types of cheese work best?
A: Swiss and cheddar are popular choices, but you can use gruyère, mozzarella, or even pepper jack for a spicy twist.
Q: Can I add other fillings?
A: Definitely! Try adding mustard, spinach, or roasted red peppers for extra flavor.
Q: How do I keep them from unrolling in the oven?
A: Make sure to chill the rolled-up dough for 10–15 minutes before slicing and baking. This helps the pinwheels keep their shape.
What You Need to Make Puff Pastry Pinwheels with Ham and Cheese
Ingredients:
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- 3 tablespoons Dijon or honey mustard
- 8–10 slices deli ham
- 1 cup shredded Swiss or cheddar cheese
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds or poppy seeds (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How to Make Puff Pastry Pinwheels with Ham and Cheese
- Preheat the Oven: Set to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Puff Pastry: Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface and spread a thin layer of mustard evenly over it.
- Add Fillings: Layer the slices of ham evenly across the pastry, then sprinkle the shredded cheese on top.
- Roll and Chill: Roll the pastry tightly into a log, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 10–15 minutes to firm up.
- Slice and Bake: Cut the chilled roll into ½-inch slices and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with egg wash and sprinkle with sesame or poppy seeds, if using.
- Bake: Bake for 12–15 minutes or until golden brown and puffed.
- Serve Warm: Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.
Tips for the Perfect Puff Pastry Pinwheels
- Keep the Dough Cold: Work quickly to prevent the puff pastry from getting too soft. Cold dough puffs better in the oven.
- Seal the Edges: Use a bit of egg wash along the edge of the pastry before rolling to help seal it.
- Customize the Fillings: Add herbs, caramelized onions, or even cooked bacon for a flavor boost.
- Crispy Finish: For an extra-crispy base, bake the pinwheels on a preheated baking sheet.
- Reheating Tip: Warm leftovers in the oven at 350°F for 5–7 minutes to restore crispiness.
Reader Reviews
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “These were the perfect addition to our brunch spread! So easy to make, and everyone raved about them.” – Emily
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “My kids loved these pinwheels as an after-school snack. I added a little honey to the mustard for sweetness—amazing!” – Sarah
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “I made these for a holiday appetizer, and they were gone in minutes. Will definitely make a double batch next time!” – Daniel
⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Great recipe! I used pepper jack cheese for a little spice, and they turned out perfectly.” – Amanda
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “These pinwheels are my go-to party appetizer now. I love how versatile and easy they are!” – Rachel
Printable Recipe
Puff Pastry Pinwheels with Ham and Cheese
These Puff Pastry Pinwheels with Ham and Cheese are buttery, flaky, and filled with savory goodness. Perfect for brunch, parties, or quick snacks—easy to make and always a hit!
Ingredients
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- 3 tablespoons Dijon or honey mustard
- 8–10 slices deli ham
- 1 cup shredded Swiss or cheddar cheese
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds or poppy seeds (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Preheat the Oven:
- Set to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Prepare the Puff Pastry:
- Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface and spread a thin layer of mustard evenly over it.
Add Fillings:
- Layer the slices of ham evenly across the pastry, then sprinkle the shredded cheese on top.
Roll and Chill:
- Roll the pastry tightly into a log, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 10–15 minutes to firm up.
Slice and Bake:
- Cut the chilled roll into ½-inch slices and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with egg wash and sprinkle with sesame or poppy seeds, if using.
Bake:
- Bake for 12–15 minutes or until golden brown and puffed.
Serve Warm:
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.
Check Out Some Of Our Other Recipes / Crafts
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If You Enjoyed This Recipe, Please Share!
If you loved these Puff Pastry Pinwheels with Ham and Cheese, don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family! Whether you’re looking for an easy brunch idea or a quick appetizer, this dish is sure to be a hit.
Snap a picture of your pinwheels, share it on social media, and tag me—I’d love to see your creations! And don’t forget to save this recipe for your next party—it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
