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Ham and Cheese Pinwheels

Ham and Cheese Pinwheels: The Perfect Puff Pastry Appetizer


  • Author: Alice Barry
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 48 pinwheels 1x
  • Diet: Low Lactose

Description

These Ham and Cheese Pinwheels are made with flaky puff pastry, melty cheese, savory ham, and tangy Dijon mustard. Perfect for parties, brunch, or snacks, this 4-ingredient recipe delivers buttery, golden bites that are freezer-friendly and ready in minutes.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 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 garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
  2. Unfold one sheet of puff pastry on a large piece of plastic wrap and roll into a 10×12-inch rectangle.
  3. Spread 1½ tablespoons Dijon mustard evenly over the pastry, leaving a ½-inch border on all sides.
  4. Arrange 6 slices of ham over the mustard and sprinkle 1 cup of grated cheese on top.
  5. Starting from the long edge, roll the pastry tightly into a log. Trim uneven ends and wrap in plastic wrap. Chill for 20 minutes.
  6. Repeat with the second sheet of puff pastry and remaining ingredients.
  7. Once chilled, slice each log into ½-inch pieces using a sharp serrated knife.
  8. Arrange the slices spiral-side up on the prepared baking sheets, about 1 inch apart.
  9. Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until the puff pastry is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling.
  10. Sprinkle with fresh herbs if desired and serve warm or at room temperature.

Notes

  • For best results, chill the rolled pastry before slicing to maintain clean spirals.
  • Use freshly grated cheese for optimal melting and flavor.
  • Freeze baked pinwheels for up to 1 month and reheat at 375°F until warm and crisp.
  • Substitute ham with turkey, bacon, or chicken for variations.
  • Make ahead: Bake the day before serving and reheat before serving.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 18 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 pinwheel
  • Calories: 60 kcal
  • Sugar: 0 g
  • Sodium: 65 mg
  • Fat: 5 g
  • Saturated Fat: 1 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 6 g
  • Fiber: 0 g
  • Protein: 5 g
  • Cholesterol: 3 mg

Keywords: Ham and Cheese Pinwheels, puff pastry pinwheels, cheesy appetizers, ham roll ups, party snacks, make-ahead appetizers