These Ham and Cheese Pinwheels are a delightful and easy-to-make appetizer that combines the savory flavors of deli ham, melty cheese, and the tang of Dijon mustard, all wrapped in flaky puff pastry. Perfect for parties, brunches, or as a quick snack, they’re sure to be a hit with both kids and adults. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up these crowd-pleasers in no time.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

2 sheets frozen puff pastry, thawed overnight in the refrigerator
3 tablespoons Dijon mustard, divided
12 slices thinly-sliced, good-quality deli ham (about 10 ounces)
2 cups freshly grated Gruyère, Swiss, Fontina, or sharp cheddar cheese (about 5 ounces)
Chopped fresh parsley, thyme, or chives (optional, for serving)

Directions

Lay a large piece of plastic wrap on your counter. Unfold the first sheet of puff pastry in the center and roll it into a 10×12-inch rectangle.
Spread with 1½ tablespoons of Dijon mustard, leaving a ½-inch border on all sides.
Lay 6 ham slices on top, overlapping as needed. Sprinkle with 1 cup of cheese.
Starting at the long (12-inch) edge, roll the puff pastry into a log. Trim the ends so they are even, then tightly wrap the log with the plastic wrap. Place in the refrigerator for 20 minutes.
Repeat with the second sheet of puff pastry and remaining mustard, ham, and cheese.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
Once the logs have chilled, using a sharp, serrated knife, carefully cut each log into ½-inch-wide slices (you will get 24 rolls from each log).
Arrange the rolls 1 inch apart on the prepared baking sheets.
Bake until the puff pastry is light golden brown and the cheese is hot and bubbly, about 18 minutes.
Immediately sprinkle with chopped thyme, parsley, or chives as desired. Let cool slightly. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Nutritional Facts

Per pinwheel:

Calories: 60 kcal
Carbohydrates: 6 g
Protein: 5 g
Fat: 5 g
Saturated Fat: 1 g
Cholesterol: 3 mg
Sodium: 65 mg

History of Ham and Cheese Pinwheels

The idea of rolling up a savory filling in pastry has been around for centuries. From the classic French croissant to the Italian pinza, rolling food inside dough is a time-tested technique. Ham and Cheese Pinwheels take inspiration from these traditional rolled pastries, combining the flavors of ham and cheese with the versatility of puff pastry. While the exact origin of this recipe isn’t clear, it likely evolved as a popular party snack in modern kitchens, using common ingredients that are both affordable and delicious.

Puff pastry itself has a long history, originating in French cuisine. It became widely popular in the 17th century and continues to be a staple in many types of savory and sweet recipes. The light, airy texture of puff pastry makes it an excellent choice for pinwheels, allowing it to crisp up nicely while perfectly complementing the flavors of the ham and cheese.

Why Ham and Cheese Pinwheels Are Popular

Ham and Cheese Pinwheels have gained popularity for several reasons. First and foremost, they are incredibly delicious. The combination of ham, cheese, and Dijon mustard wrapped in flaky puff pastry appeals to nearly everyone, from young children to adults. The variety of cheeses that can be used in the filling, such as Gruyère, Swiss, or cheddar, gives the dish flexibility and allows you to customize it according to your taste preferences.

In addition to their flavor, Ham and Cheese Pinwheels are also easy to prepare. With only a few simple ingredients and minimal preparation time, these pinwheels are perfect for those who want a quick yet impressive dish. They can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge until you’re ready to bake them, making them a great option for meal prep or when hosting guests. The versatility of the recipe is also a key factor in its popularity. You can adjust the fillings by adding herbs, spices, or even vegetables to make it your own.

The Appeal of Puff Pastry

Puff pastry is a crucial component in Ham and Cheese Pinwheels. Its light and flaky texture elevates the dish, providing a contrast to the rich and savory ham and cheese filling. When baked, puff pastry puffs up and creates a crispy exterior, offering the perfect crunch with each bite. The delicate layers of the pastry are achieved by folding butter into the dough multiple times, which creates air pockets that expand during baking.

One of the reasons puff pastry is so beloved in cooking is its versatility. It can be used in both sweet and savory dishes, from appetizers like these pinwheels to desserts like tarts and turnovers. Puff pastry can also be a great time-saver for home cooks who may not have the time to prepare homemade dough from scratch. Pre-made puff pastry sheets are readily available in most grocery stores, making this recipe quick and accessible.

How to Make Ham and Cheese Pinwheels

While this article doesn’t provide a step-by-step guide, it’s important to note that making Ham and Cheese Pinwheels is straightforward. The key to success lies in using high-quality ingredients, particularly the ham and cheese, as they are the stars of the dish. Freshly grated cheese melts more evenly, providing a smoother and creamier texture compared to pre-shredded varieties.

The process involves rolling out the puff pastry, spreading mustard for flavor, layering the ham and cheese, and rolling it all into a log. After chilling the log, slicing it into pinwheels and baking them until golden brown results in the perfect bite-sized treats. The balance between the savory filling and the crisp pastry is what makes these pinwheels so irresistible.

Customizing Your Ham and Cheese Pinwheels

While the basic recipe calls for ham, cheese, and mustard, there are countless variations that can be made to suit different tastes. You can easily swap out the ham for turkey, chicken, or even bacon for a different flavor profile. The cheese can also be customized to your liking—try using mozzarella, goat cheese, or even a blend of different cheeses to create a unique combination.

For those looking to add some extra flavor, fresh herbs such as rosemary, thyme, or parsley can be sprinkled on top of the cheese before rolling. For a bit of heat, consider adding a few slices of jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce to the filling. You could also experiment with adding sautéed onions, spinach, or other vegetables to make the pinwheels even more flavorful and nutritious.

Serving Suggestions

Ham and Cheese Pinwheels are incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. They can be served warm or at room temperature, making them ideal for parties or gatherings where food might sit out for a while. Serve them as a standalone appetizer, or pair them with a fresh salad or vegetable platter for a complete meal. They also make an excellent snack for kids, as the bite-sized portions are easy to handle.

If you’re serving these pinwheels at a party, consider pairing them with a dipping sauce. Dijon mustard is an obvious choice, but you could also offer a tangy ranch dressing, honey mustard, or a creamy garlic sauce to complement the flavors. For a more sophisticated touch, serve them with a glass of white wine or sparkling water.

Storage and Reheating Tips

One of the great things about Ham and Cheese Pinwheels is that they can be made ahead of time, making them a fantastic option for meal prep. After assembling the pinwheels, you can refrigerate them for a few hours or overnight before baking. This gives the pastry time to chill and helps it bake up more evenly.

If you have leftover pinwheels, they can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until the pastry is crisp and the cheese is melted. You can also freeze the pinwheels for longer storage. To freeze, arrange the unbaked pinwheels on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. To bake from frozen, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Nutritional Information

Ham and Cheese Pinwheels are a delicious treat, but like all pastry-based snacks, they are best enjoyed in moderation. While they provide a good amount of protein and calcium from the ham and cheese, the puff pastry adds significant fat and calories. However, these pinwheels can be part of a balanced diet if consumed as part of a larger meal or enjoyed as an occasional indulgence.

For those looking to make a healthier version of Ham and Cheese Pinwheels, consider using a lighter puff pastry, reducing the amount of cheese, or adding more vegetables to the filling. You can also experiment with low-fat or reduced-sodium ham to reduce the overall calorie and sodium content.

Conclusion

Ham and Cheese Pinwheels are an easy-to-make, delicious, and versatile dish that can be customized to suit any taste. Whether you’re hosting a party, preparing a snack for your family, or planning a brunch, these pinwheels will always be a crowd-pleaser. The combination of savory ham, gooey cheese, and flaky puff pastry is simply irresistible, and their bite-sized format makes them perfect for any occasion.

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