Ham and Cheese Pinwheels – Delicious Puff Pastry Bites

Ham and cheese puff pastry pinwheels are the perfect blend of savory and flaky, making them an irresistible snack or appetizer. These delicious pinwheels feature layers of buttery, golden puff pastry wrapped around savory ham and melted cheese, creating a satisfying bite that’s crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. What makes this dish so special is the combination of flavors and textures, making it a versatile option for parties, picnics, or a quick family meal. In this article, you’ll learn how to prepare these tasty pinwheels, along with tips for making them even more delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ham and cheese puff pastry pinwheels are a versatile and crowd-pleasing dish. The puff pastry gives them a light, flaky texture that pairs perfectly with the savory ham and melty cheese. The cheese adds richness and depth, while the ham brings a salty, savory element that enhances the overall flavor. The best part is that these pinwheels are quick and easy to make, perfect for last-minute gatherings or as a fun snack for the family. They can be served warm or at room temperature, making them ideal for a variety of occasions.

What makes this recipe even better is its versatility. You can customize the filling to your liking, whether you want to use a different type of cheese, add herbs, or include other ingredients like mustard or vegetables. These pinwheels are also easy to make in advance, so you can enjoy them fresh out of the oven without spending a lot of time on preparation. Once you’ve tried these ham and cheese puff pastry pinwheels, they’ll quickly become a go-to favorite in your kitchen.

Recipe Details

Ham and cheese pinwheels are a classic combination that’s been enjoyed for generations. The origins of these pinwheels can be traced back to the tradition of wrapping various fillings in pastry dough, a practice seen in many cultures. The use of puff pastry elevates this dish by providing a light and flaky exterior that contrasts beautifully with the savory filling inside. Puff pastry is made by layering dough and butter, then folding and rolling it several times to create those signature layers that puff up when baked.

In this recipe, the puff pastry is rolled out, layered with thinly sliced ham, and topped with cheese. The pinwheels are then sliced and baked to golden perfection. This dish can be served as a main course for lunch or dinner or as an appetizer for gatherings. The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility: You can experiment with different types of ham, cheese, and even seasonings to suit your taste. It’s a simple, yet sophisticated dish that’s sure to impress your guests.

Nutritional Information

Ham and cheese puff pastry pinwheels are a rich and indulgent treat, providing a good balance of protein, fats, and carbohydrates. A typical serving (one pinwheel) contains around 150-200 calories, depending on the size and ingredients used. The puff pastry contributes to the overall calorie count, as it’s made with butter, which adds a delicious richness but also increases the fat content.

The ham provides protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth, and also offers a source of vitamins and minerals like iron and zinc. The cheese adds calcium, which supports bone health, as well as protein and fat. While these pinwheels are not low in calories, they are rich in flavor and provide a satisfying snack or meal.

If you’re looking to make the recipe lighter, you can substitute a lower-fat cheese or use less butter in the puff pastry. You can also experiment with using whole wheat puff pastry for a healthier option. Overall, these pinwheels are a flavorful and satisfying choice for those who want a treat that’s both indulgent and tasty.

Ingredients

For the Puff Pastry:

• 1 sheet of refrigerated puff pastry (about 9×9 inches, or enough to roll out to 10×10 inches)
• 1 tablespoon butter, melted (for brushing)

For the Filling:

• 1 cup cooked ham, thinly sliced or chopped
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Swiss, or your choice of cheese)
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional, for extra flavor)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary (optional, for added flavor)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

and for the Egg Wash:

• 1 large egg, beaten
• 1 tablespoon water

These ingredients are simple but provide the perfect combination of buttery pastry, savory ham, and gooey cheese. You can use any type of cheese you prefer, but sharp cheddar or Swiss are excellent choices for their bold flavors and meltability. If you want to make these pinwheels a bit more sophisticated, adding a small amount of Dijon mustard or fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the filling can elevate the dish and add depth to the flavor profile.

The egg wash is brushed on the outside of the pinwheels to give them a beautiful golden color once baked. It also helps seal the edges of the pastry, ensuring the filling stays in place while baking.

Equipment Needed

To prepare ham and cheese puff pastry pinwheels, you’ll need the following equipment:

• A rolling pin to roll out the puff pastry
• A baking sheet to bake the pinwheels
• A parchment paper for lining the baking sheet
• A pastry brush to brush the egg wash
• A sharp knife to cut the pinwheels into even slices

A rolling pin is necessary to roll the puff pastry out to the right thickness. A baking sheet lined with parchment paper will ensure that the pinwheels bake evenly and don’t stick to the pan. The pastry brush is used to apply the egg wash, giving the pinwheels their golden, glossy finish. A sharp knife will help cut the pinwheels into even slices, ensuring they bake uniformly.

Pro Tips For Success

1. Use Cold Puff Pastry: It’s essential to use chilled puff pastry for the best results. Cold pastry will puff up more evenly and create that delicate, flaky texture. If your puff pastry is at room temperature, pop it back into the fridge for 10-15 minutes before working with it.
2. Don’t Overstuff the Pinwheels: When filling the puff pastry, be careful not to overstuff the pinwheels. Adding too much filling can cause the pastry to burst during baking. A thin layer of ham and cheese will create the perfect balance of filling and dough.
3. Brush with Egg Wash: Brushing the pinwheels with an egg wash will give them a golden, glossy finish. Don’t skip this step, as it adds a professional look and enhances the color of the pinwheels.
4. Use Sharp Cheese: A sharp, flavorful cheese like cheddar or Swiss will make the pinwheels more delicious. Avoid using too mild a cheese, as it can get lost in the other flavors.
5. Bake Until Golden: Bake the pinwheels until they are golden brown and puffed up. Don’t rush this step—taking the time to bake them properly ensures they have the perfect flaky texture.

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
2. Prepare the Puff Pastry: Roll out the puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface. Use a rolling pin to ensure it’s evenly stretched to about 10×10 inches.
3. Add the Filling: Brush the rolled-out pastry with melted butter, leaving a small border around the edges. Spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard (if using) over the pastry. Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly across the pastry, then layer the cooked ham on top. Season with thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
4. Roll and Slice: Carefully roll the pastry into a tight log, starting from one edge and rolling toward the other. Once rolled, use a sharp knife to slice the log into 1-inch pinwheels.
5. Apply Egg Wash: Arrange the pinwheels on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops of each pinwheel with the beaten egg wash to give them a golden color when baked.
6. Bake: Bake the pinwheels for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed up. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t overbake.
7. Serve: Let the pinwheels cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy them warm or at room temperature.

Recipe Variations

1. Add Vegetables: For an extra layer of flavor and nutrition, you can add sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or onions to the filling. These vegetables pair wonderfully with the savory ham and cheese.
2. Use Different Meats: If you prefer turkey, chicken, or even bacon, you can substitute the ham with any of these options. The same filling concept works well with other deli meats or even leftover roasted meats.
3. Spicy Version: Add a bit of heat by using pepper jack cheese and some chopped jalapeños in the filling. This variation will add a spicy kick to the pinwheels.
4. Sweet and Savory: For a unique twist, try adding a thin layer of fruit preserves, such as apricot or fig, along with the ham and cheese. The sweetness of the preserves contrasts beautifully with the savory ham and cheese.

Storage Instructions

Ham and cheese puff pastry pinwheels can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes or until warmed through. For longer storage, freeze the pinwheels for up to 1 month. To reheat from frozen, bake them directly from the freezer for 10-15 minutes at 350°F (175°C).

Serving Suggestions

These pinwheels are perfect on their own, but you can also serve them with a variety of sides. Pair them with a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or fresh fruit for a well-rounded meal. They also work wonderfully as an appetizer for parties or holiday gatherings. For a more substantial meal, serve them with a side of scrambled eggs or potato salad.

FAQs

1. Can I make these pinwheels ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare them ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze them before baking. Simply bake them when ready to serve.
2. Can I use a different type of cheese?
   Absolutely! You can substitute cheddar, Swiss, or any cheese of your choice. Gruyère, mozzarella, or gouda would also work well.
3. How do I prevent the filling from leaking out?
   Make sure to seal the edges of the pastry tightly before baking. The egg wash also helps seal the pinwheels.
4. Can I make these pinwheels without ham?
   Yes, you can make them vegetarian by using just cheese and adding vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or roasted peppers.
5. What other herbs can I use in the filling?
   Fresh basil, oregano, or parsley are excellent additions to the filling. Feel free to experiment with your favorite herbs.

Conclusion

Ham and cheese puff pastry pinwheels are a delightful and versatile dish that combines savory flavors with a flaky, buttery crust. Whether you’re serving them for breakfast, as a snack, or as part of a larger meal, these pinwheels are sure to satisfy everyone. With the option to customize the filling to your liking, this recipe offers endless possibilities. Simple to make and full of flavor, ham and cheese puff pastry pinwheels will quickly become a go-to favorite in your kitchen.

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